SWINDON Flames have entered a Pee Wee (under 12) team into the SASH league for the first time since 2010 and the new team performed very well in their very first match, eventually being edged out 4-3 by Oxford Storm.

Late withdrawals meant that the young Swindon side had just enough players to play the game, with only four outfield members and netminder Mali Easton meaning that all the players had to play the whole match. Two players, Ciaran Norris and Alfie Webb, were playing in-line hockey for the first time and assistant captain Adrian Smith had only previously played in a friendly.

Despite the lack of numbers the Swindon youngsters gave as good as they got and competed well against an Oxford side with more than two full lines. The match remained tight for a long while during the first period but Oxford eventually nudged in front after 10 minutes.

Despite going behind the Flames Pee Wees kept going and drew level when team captain Joseph Llewellyn scored with just over two minutes of the half remaining.

Things got even better when Llewellyn netted again with just 24 seconds remaining in the first period to leave the Flames 2-1 in front at the break.

In the second period Oxford came back strongly and drew level after six minutes and a minute later went in front again.

However, the Swindon team refused to go down without a struggle and drew level with under two minutes remaining when Llewellyn completed his hat-trick. Frustratingly for the Flames, Oxford scored again 11 seconds later to take the lead and held on to win a thoroughly entertaining and competitive game.

The Swindon Flames are always looking to recruit new members at all levels and are especially seeking new members for the newly formed Pee Wee (under 12) team. Training is held weekly at the Link Centre on Saturdays from 10am-11am under the guidance of GB ice-hockey coach Mark Beggs.

Further information can be obtained by e-mailing info@swindonflames.com or by ringing 01793 336290 or 01793 820856.