CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR

With the awards season in full flow, it wasn't Paul McCartney being snubbed at the Grammys after-party, or the upcoming Brits that stole the headlines this week, it was the prestigious "Hockey's" that captured the imagination. This year they were held on the green astro in Ashford, a truly inspired venue for such an occasion.

The highlight of the awards was the "man of the match" award, given to an overwhelmed James Fell, who had already won "best sliding tackle", "best man to man marking" and "most fine performance out of position"

But it was the earlier awards that really caught everyone out, with some extraordinary surprises. Out of nowhere came young Ross Ainley with a "Hockey" for his performance in "A Collection of Cards", Paul Baker scooped one for his role in "That's a Goal" and the cash-grab sequel "That's Not Quite a Goal!" And Joni Coleman for "Wow! Did I Study for that Degree?!" (SPOILER: No)

The biggest surprise of the ceremony was Ashford being awarded "most inspired substitution of the day" as it really was a game changer!! Hot on the heels of that award came action performance of the day which was awarded to Victor for his role in "stop that substitute from scoring"

A special "hockey" went to stunt man Ben Eve for some really real looking stunts as he was body checked on the side of the pitch and comedy hockey went to the umpires for "I Can't Give It If I Didn't See It!"

The last award of the day went to the captain for his gritty role in "Play Hockey Or Die Try'in" his acceptance speech was thus
"Today we lost our way a tad. We over-thought and over-tried in a way and lost our composure and style. But not to worry. Heads up, sticks down and let's move on".

As our stats man Joni has said, if we win all our remaining games we get second spot in the league! As we got promoted this year that is still awesome, so that's the goal. And a special thanks to Dave Golbey, the oppo umpire and the guys that came before them, Mark Ainley, Tom Cooper and our own Joni, Zac and James. All joking aside without you guys giving up your personal time we would not be able to enjoy the game that we love and we all appreciate your efforts. Thank you. And thanks also to ......blah blah blah
(And cut to an ad break !!)