Men's 1s chalk up first victory after Xmas break

Reigate Priory started the New Year with a bang with a comprehensive 7-3 victory over HAC. Priory knew that they were in for a tough game as HAC were certainly one of the toughest opponents thus far.

Injuries and lack of availability caused a few selection headaches, however the team adapted well with Andrew Porter bringing his usual composure to the centre of defence and Jonny Perkins adding a touch of flair to the midfield.

Reigate started the brighter of the two sides, with the tough friendly against Tunbridge Wells serving as ideal preparation for the first league game after Christmas. Ea large amount of success coming down the right hand flank through the combination of Perkins and Jamie Vidler. Perkins opened the scoring by flummoxing the entire opposition, including the keeper, and coolly slotting in on the reverse. Reigate then added two in quick succession through leading scorer Tom Pickersgill, who seemed determined to send a message to the league.

HAC did however get a goal back just before half time after a string of penalty corners, which gave the travelling side renewed hope going into the break.

A furious start to the second half saw numerous waves of attack from both sides, with space opening up in the middle of the park. The Reigate defence stood strong with Owen Morris and Arran Wood absorbing pressure, however the pressure eventually told, as HAC bundled the ball over the line to take the score to 3-2.

HAC then felt that the inevitable game changing umpiring decision went against them; video evidence has since proved that the umpires were, unsurprisingly, correct not to award a penalty flick.

From here Reigate asserted their dominance on the game, showing just how far the side have come on this season. A high tempo and clinical finishing put HAC to the sword. Further goals from Perkins and Pickersgill as well as a first ever 1st team goal from youngster, Matt Heskey-Rankin ensured Reigate came away with all 3 points.

This weekend the side face Southampton Uni away, in what promises to be another tough test for the league leaders.