Alderley Edge Men’s hockey first team went to the top of North Division One with victory over Newcastle University at Fallibroome Academy.
Alderley took a while to get in to their stride but once they found their passing range they were able to put Newcastle under real pressure. The first goal came when Sam Gregory was put clear and his pass was gathered by Andy Williams and excellently lifted over the keeper.
Sam Gregory then added a second following a tidy passing move and a good advantage played allowing him to wriggle free and slot home. James McPherson added a third when a loose ball fell invitingly and he rifled the ball high into the net.
Newcastle Uni pulled one back when a driven cross deflected into the path of the forward who finished well.
The second half was a controlled affair with the students putting on more pressure but not being able to penetrate the Alderley back line, with Butterworth in fine form.
With space opening at the back Alderley took advantage when a swift passing move set Gregory free once again. He raced clear before going wide of the keeper and slotting home via a post.
After time Newcastle Uni grabbed a consolation as a penalty corner was allowed to be played out, and after the original shot was saved the rebound was rifled high into the net.
A very satisfactory result and with other results going Alderley’s way they have now hit top spot for first time since October.
The 2s suffered defeat away at Bangor Uni, but have a game in hand on the other teams looking for promotion.
The 4th team are timing their push for promotion with a fine 5-2 win away at Neston whilst the 3s and 5s lost to table toppers Wrexham and Blackburn respectively.
The ladies section continued their march towards promotion with all the teams recording victories and none conceding a goal. The 1st team have an 11 point gap and the 2nds are 12 points (and 55 goals) clear.
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