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Due to the lack of response from Falkirk it fell to us to run back to the club and find any reserve strips I could lay my hands on as they turned up with clashing tops. The lack of proper warm up as a result of the farce only gave us more reason to get a good result from the day. 2 minutes warmup is enough it seems !

It was a strong start from Grange and we laid on the pressure against a strong Falkirk team. We could tell there was a lot of experience down the middle of the Falkirk line-up so took the pressure down the wings and were making good progress. The stability of the Grange team really starting to show through as players were working for each other and making plays as a team.

First goal came from a Short Corner as a result of a foot by Falkirk in their own D. They might still be talking about it now but the right decision was made as it a) hit their foot b) in their own D... Steve calmly putting it away (as per). We then continued to have various chances and could sense another goal was coming. One of these chances included Ben smashing the ball off the side of the post & possibly leaving a dent (tbc).

However, halftime saw us go in one-nil up and feeling comfortable as a team. After identifying our strengths/weakness's we went about improving again in the second half.

Unfortunately however Falkirk decided to bring the game down a level back to a full contact type of game. Grange tried not to react with some good 1-2 play at times and great team play. Falkirk got into our D a couple times but these were comfortably mopped up by Tario or Tom/Mitch. Tario getting a 8/10 for his graceful dive saving what was probably their best chance of the day

Steve grabbed the 2nd goal after successfully drawing in the keeper and nailing a reverse shot, low and hard into the back of the boards. I would like to say here that Steve was playing a blinder of a game but at this point I have to now mention his yellow card. I think the Falkirk keeper took a shine to Steve after grabbing 2 goals and wanted to give him a leg-hug a little too early before the final whistle. Steve didn't appreciate his attention and kindly informed him he wasn't his type. The Ref apparently saw only the 2nd part of this incident and thought Steve's reaction was a bit harsh, hence the yellow card.

Then the floodgates opened on the physical front ....shoulder barges & full on stick tackles ensued....

Overall some great link up play going forward and rock solid at the back (Tom/Mitch/Dave/Kyle) ensuring another clean sheet going into the Xmas Break !

Some Stats to finish off with for the first half of the season !

Played 8 / Won 7
Goals For 26 / Against 5

Amazing record lad's ! Time for a well earned rest..

Grange Hockey Club

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