The team took to the sun-drenched Becket Keys "stadium" for this eagerly awaited fixture.
A near capacity crowd included a large contingent of "Walden" fans who made their voices heard to support their boys.

A mix of sickness and availability meant this would be a tough game with only 11 players including a ‘guest’ appearance by Fraser as an over age player - the opposition had 3 over age players to make their team up.

The first half started with Saffron Walden camped for a while in our right back area but without creating anything and we seemed unable to get out for a while. Brentwood however grew into the half and our playing positions and started to create some opportunities on the break. The Saffron Walden keeper however proved to be a tough obstacle to overcome making some very smart saves when called upon.

The team shape was much better this week compared to our last outing and by the time half time came although it was 0-0 we were starting to dominate a bit more with some good passing around the back and better ball retention and shape.

Defensively Scott GK had little to do but when called upon he stepped up, the back three of Will, Fraser and Charlie were starting to get on top of the opposition attack with Sam breaking things up as the holding midfielder (another good showing in only his 2nd hockey game). This defensive control was a theme carried through the 2nd half giving us a solid platform.

The 2nd half saw some excellent hockey at times and despite the opposition having a sub we seemed to retain our energy levels and dominated the majority of the half.

The goals started to come with Harry scoring after some very smart play up our right hand side by Frank and Sebastian. The midfield now stepped it up and Aidan, Frank, Jake and Sebastian looked to be in control for large parts of the game.

Harry and Ben started to get more involved from the forward line and the defensive work was starting from the front which was great to see.

Jake managed to slot 2 more goals before Frank stepped into the top of the D to put our 4th goal past Saffron Walden.

Overall a very good team performance with lots of the things we have been working on in training coming off and being used to good effect.

A big thank you to Harry and Lorna for umpiring, very much appreciated.

Looking forward to our next game in March!

Boys Under 14s training is on every Tuesday at 7pm to 8pm at BK School.

Team Photo:
Back row: Fraser, Frank, Sam, Jake, Ben, Sebastian.
Front row: Aidan, Scott, Harry, Charlie, Will.