UEL hockey hopes hit

Action from UEL's clash with LSE (Image: Archant)

UEL’s men bowed out of the hockey cup against a strong and in-form London School of Economics side.

The game started with LSE maintaining possession of the ball and keeping UEL pegged back in their half, but UEL battled continuously to gain a foothold in the game.

The first goal came from LSE as they were awarded a penalty flick for a back of the stick tackle in the circle.

UEL came back into the game when Joe Nelmes picked the ball up just outside the LSE circle and dribbled past two defenders to slot home low into the corner. But LSE then regrouped and, after some quick counter attacking, squeezed a shot from the tightest of angles into the near post to regain the lead.

The second half began with UEL creating more chances and looking like they could get back on level terms. But LSE continued to break with speed, forcing keeper Chris Leek into numerous saves before he was left helpless with a strike which saw LSE take a commanding 3-1 lead.

UEL struggled to keep up with the pace of the tireless LSE team, who substituted well throughout the match to keep their players fresh, and the last five minutes saw LSE strike twice and close off the game in style.

UEL’s Mike Crossley cleared two drag-flicks off the line, though, and Chris Barry took the man of the match award for his performance in midfield.

UEL will look to bounce back when they play Imperial IV at Lee Valley Hockey Club next Wednesday (November 5).

Imperial are yet to win this season and UEL will be looking to get their campaign for a second promotion back on track.

UEL: Chris Leek; Adam Emmerson; Michael Crossley; Sam Vincent; Terry Couzens; Stuart Daley; Chris Barry; Joe Nelmes; Fabien Mitchell; Graham Williams; Dan Turner. Subs: Scott Pucknell, Sam McGrath.