Hockey

Penzance 1

Caradon U16s 5

After last week's draw, Caradon travelled to Penzance to play in a winner-takes-all game.

With points level in the league table, both sides realised the importance of the game and the atmosphere was electric.

Caradon started to build momentum with the ball being spread from left to right and the short intricate passing play was beginning to unnerve the Penzance defence.

Olli Dinnis was quick and powerful in midfield and it was his interlinking play with talisman Tyler Walsh which resulted in the first goal.

Walsh's deft slip to Dinnis at the top of the circle resulted in a sharp strike and the lead taken.

Both teams competed tirelessly in midfield, but it was Caradon captain Beth Harris who was pulling the strings. Supported by Olli Allsop and Tom Harris, more attacking moves were created.

Any Penzance attacks were calmly dealt with by the solid and mature play of Nathan Jeffery, who was playing his last match at this age group.

Penzance levelled the scores when a brilliant reverse strike from the edge of the circle gave keeper, Lauren Bowdler no chance.

The equaliser only seemed to spur the visitors on and, after a goal was disallowed from Walsh, he then turned provider again to ensure left back Josh Rundle was rewarded for his run up field. A cute deflection ensured the visitors went into the break 1-2 up.

The second half was a fantastic game of hockey. Interlinking play and solid tackling gave Caradon momentum and Penzance's heads were beginning to drop.

Tyler Walsh was relishing the challenge and showed his full catalogue of tricks and skills, much to the delight of the travelling supporters. He added two signature goals in quick succession but with the score line 1-4, Caradon continued to play with intensity.

Full backs, Rundle and Charlie Harris were given more freedom to push forward and worked well with their respective wingers, Georgia Davies and Cara Phillips.

With minutes left to play, Josh Rundle scored the goal of the season to cap a remarkable season for the team and clinch the U16 county title.

A determined run from half way and a reverse strike from the top of the circle found the top right corner of the goal, making it 1-5.

This team have been a credit to the club, coaches, parents and spectators all season with both their attitude and play, to be crowned champions is nothing short of what they deserve, said a club spokesperson.