BUCS hockey: UEL 3 Imperial IV 0

UEL got back to their winning ways with an impressive and dominant display against Imperial at Lee Valley.

The game began with UEL maintaining possession and causing problems for the Imperial defence.

And unlike in previous games, UEL were clinical in front of goal with a deflection from Graham Williams putting the home side ahead.

Imperial rarely troubled the home net and struggled to cultivate any chances from the midfield, losing possession far too easily.

From this, UEL always looked in control and built a commanding lead with Joe Nelmes hitting a brace before the break.

Nelmes produced a great finish from a short corner for the first of his two goals, dummying his way past a defender before slotting into the right corner.

And he was in the right place at the right time to scramble home UEL’s third from close range.

After some positive words from captain Terry Couzens and vice-captain Chris Leek, UEL dominated possession throughout the second half.

Man of the match Michael Crossley shattered any Imperial hopes of a comeback with an incredible demonstration of defensive tackling.

And Couzens produced a superb goalline clearance in the closing stages to deny them a consolation after a late assault on the UEL goal.

Couzens said: “We had good structure and kept up the pressure the entire game.

“We were confident in everything we did and didn’t panic. We keep pushing it wide and that’s how we got out goals.”

UEL welcome King’s College fourths to Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre for their next match.

UEL: Leek, Couzens (c), Crossley, Vincent, Wood, Robb, Nelmes, Mitchell, Turner, Barry, Williams. Subs: Pucknell, McGrath.