ADVER Sport rounds up the latest matches for Swindon Hockey Club.

Swindon Ladies first XI

On the back of last weekend’s home win to Taunton, Swindon Ladies first XI ventured down south to face ISCA Exeter University second XI and a bench-full of young fit students.

This was telling as their constant flow of fresh legs throughout the match helped to maintain their high level of performance.

The first quarter of the match was goalless, but ISCA presented Swindon with a high, disciplined press that prevented quick counter-attacks. The away team’s Shona O’Dwyer showed her usual flare to enjoy a few driving runs down the centre after ISCA failed to retreat far enough from several awarded free-hits.

Uncharacteristically, a lack of concentration in the remainder of the first half saw ISCA net five goals from open play and short corners in quick succession to leave Swindon 5-0 down at half-time.

Swindon started the second half with renewed composure and won multiple short corners, only to be thwarted by a superb ISCA 'keeper.

In the other goal, the visitor’s own 'keeper made a spectacular save from a penalty flick. ISCA stole a final goal to secure their 6-0 win against Swindon, who finished far stronger than at half-time. 

Swindon Men first XI

The men's first XI suffered their first defeat of the season away at high flying Whitchurch on Saturday.

Swindon started well, competing for every ball and creating chances. The home side seemed rattled and the visitors capitalised with a well taken short corner converted by Dave Miles.

Swindon continued to play well, despite questionable cards for Luke Cejer and Rob Riddell. Whitchurch then took advantage and converted their own short corner.

Despite a confident start to the second half, Swindon earned themselves more cards and dropped down to 10 players. The visitor’s defence held firm and keeper Leo Barker was on top form in goal, but with more decisions swinging in favour of the home team it wasn’t long before they netted their second to win the game.

Rest of club round-up

In other matches, Swindon’s Ladies second XI drew 2-2 to local rivals Royal Wootton Bassett, and the Men’s third XI impressively defeated Team Bath Buccaneers 0-6 away.

Swindon Hockey introduced their newest team, Men’s fourth XI on Sunday with a 1-1 draw against Bath Buccs in a development game for both teams.

If anyone is interested in playing hockey for the first time or re-joining after a while away, search Swindon Hockey Club on Facebook.