NE14Hockey Division 3 South East Clacton 1st 3 Thurrock 1st 0Clacton put in a fantastic team performance to gain revenge from a previous demolition by Thurrock.

Saturday 9th February 2008

NE14Hockey Division 3 South East

Clacton 1st 3 Thurrock 1st 0

Clacton put in a fantastic team performance to gain revenge from a previous demolition by Thurrock. The Seasiders showed great mental character to keep their nerve as the game unfolded. The first half saw both teams trading attacking moves in an open flowing game, but neither side made the most of the chances and at half time the score was 0-0.

Clacton keeper Mike Key was in top form making some crucial saves to keep the visitors out. The pick of the bunch was a close range flick that gave Key little time to react, but somehow he pulled off a fantastic save leaving the opponents applauding his save, rather than the goal they were expecting.

With 20 minutes to go, it was the home side that broke the deadlock, when Coleman's strike rebounded Jamie Roberts was in the right place to slap the ball home. The Seasiders had to concentrate at the other end with Nick Key making a fine stop from a short corner, and Mike Key saving a one-on-one chance. With 10 minutes to go, the visitors were pushing for the equaliser which left gaps at the back. Clacton took advantage with the pace on both wings, and when they received their bit of luck, Hodge poked home the second for 2-0.

The visitors lost their concentration for the final few minutes which allowed Clacton to round off a great performance with a sweet goal with all the flowing movement that the Seasiders pride themselves on. Roberts stole the ball in midfield and set Hodge away, who made a trademark mazy run resulting in Coleman to deflect home the third and secure Clacton a second consecutive win.