Men's 2s vs Solihull Blossomfield 1

On an unexpectedly hot October day at Wrekin College, Telford and Wrekin 2nd team squared off against Solihull Blossomfield 1st, who sat at the bottom of the league. This day held special significance as Telford welcomed back AJ, a player whose last appearance for the team was a staggering 18 years ago. Additionally, there was excitement in the air as George P received his first call-up to the second team.

The unseasonably high temperature of 24 degrees made the conditions muggy and humid, testing the endurance of both teams. Despite this being a home game for Telford, it was played at Wrekin College on a pitch that proved to be exceptionally bouncy, challenging the players' skills.

While the pre-match warm-up went smoothly, the Telford team initially appeared somewhat sluggish, and their typically high level of passing precision was temporarily elusive. Nevertheless, they managed to take the lead within the first ten minutes when Jon Cook delivered a precise pass to Captain Tom Jones, who unleashed a low, powerful strike that found the back of the net.

Solihull's physicality on the field was notable, and at times, they seemed more suited to a rugby pitch than a hockey field. Despite the physical contest, Gareth, a stalwart on the left side, maintained his composure and solidity.

Telford continued to assert their dominance, and they extended their lead when they were awarded a short corner, which vice-captain Matt HM clinically converted with a reverse hit. As the first half neared its end, the Telford squad found a surge of energy. A remarkable leading run by John Perry down the right side culminated in a perfectly timed pass that bounced over several sticks before finding AJ who calmly slotted home Telford's third goal.

At halftime, Telford huddled together, collectively agreeing to adopt a more positive and assertive style of play for the second half. Their renewed determination was evident as the game resumed. Captain TJ wasted no time in testing the goalkeeper, pushing the ball past all his teammates, only to see it expertly saved by Nathan, who managed to keep the ball in play.

Throughout the second half, both teams struggled to string together combinations of more than one pass due to the intense competition on the field. However, a moment of brilliance occurred when AJ received the ball on the left side of the Dee. He displayed remarkable patience, waiting for Captain TJ to catch up before sliding the ball with pinpoint precision. Tom, with an open-faced stick, deflected the ball into the back of the boards, securing Telford's fourth goal.

Telford's defensive line faced minimal concerns, primarily keeping a watchful eye on an injured Solihull player who stayed in the Dee. A few moments later, Will L launched a powerful ball down the line, which TJ picked up before executing a reverse pass to Matt HM. Matt's clinical finishing skills were once again on display as he slotted the ball into the back of the net for Telford's fifth goal.

Despite their continued dominance and possession control, Telford struggled to find that elusive sixth goal. The Man of the Match award rightfully went to Bully, who had yet another solid game for the team, contributing significantly to their success.

A heartfelt thank you was extended to all the supporters who came to watch the game, the umpires for their contributions to the match, and Sam, who continued to efficiently manage the match day team. As the final whistle blew, Telford find themselves perched at the top of the league with a remarkable positive goal difference of 16 after three games, setting the stage for an exciting and promising season ahead.

The team's next challenge awaited them in the form of Sutton Coldfield 2's, where they would venture away from home in pursuit of their continued success.