U13 Boys Sussex Tournament - Winners

East Grinstead U13s won the Sussex Hockey U13 Boys Junior Clubs Tournament held at the University of Sussex Sportsground, powering past the other teams to become the unbeaten victors.

Playing ten minutes each way with a squad of only 7 players, a first match win was essential to keep the morale high and adrenalin running. The boys did not disappoint, the pressure on Eastbourne was relentless.  By half time, EG were 5-0 ahead. Coach Rupert Ashdown made them ease up to conserve energy and a 7-0 win was secured.

Hat-tricks by Liam Guiver and debutant Josh Davison, Luke Taylor added 1 more to the final tally.

Against Lewes, EG had the best of the possession but were struggling to get the ball into the net. The Lewes keeper proved a worthy adversary until Liam Guiver’s great run into the D from midfield and cool head against the massing defenders gave him the strike which opened the flood gates. Final score 4-0, Luke Taylor 2, Liam Guiver 1, Josh Davison 1.

Both South Saxons and EG were unbeaten when they went into the final match. The solid defending and keeping throughout by GK Michael Gowen, backs Lewis Beedle & Ben Sullivan and sweeper Ollie Ashdown meant that a draw would secure the title for EG on goal difference. The tension was palpable.

A quick break delivered the first goal to South Saxons. The pressure mounted, unabashed Captain Luke Taylor urged his team on, leading by example to level the score. The second goal followed quickly sealing the victory. Final score 2-1, with Luke Taylor scoring both goals for EG.