The College’s mixed hockey team has frequently dominated the Hampshire College’s circuit and had great successes in the Association of Colleges National Cup but always just missed out on the top spot.  However, this year was the year, the team qualified for the National Finals and excelled against South Dartmoor College to secure the title!

Looking at South Dartmoor’s road to the finals, finishing some of their matches 10-0 and 11-0, they were going to be a tough side to beat.  Having travelled the night before, Farnborough had all morning to ensure correct preparations, which included a team meeting to discuss tactics.  Coach Dina Gurung had a clear strategy for the team.  

With an hour to go and the weather picking up, the team headed out to the second pitch to begin the warm up and were soon joined by the South Dartmoor team.  Preparations continued with the sun coming out and supporters arriving.

The 3pm push back time had arrived.  Farnborough had a fantastic start, the epitome of team.  They played clinical, no mess hockey, executing the coach’s instructions flawlessly.  Within five minutes Rob Jervis had secured Farnborough their first goal followed 15 minutes later by Rosie Hudson’s goal.  Shortly after Will Halliday scored a third goal!  A short corner allowed South Dartmoor to get on the score board and at half time Farnborough were 3-1 up.

The second half started much like the first and Rob Jervis secured his second goal making the score 4-1.  A nervous bench then watched as South Dartmoor lifted their game and started to dominate possession - they secured their second goal with Farnborough losing a little concentration.  However, encouraging words from the coach saw Farnborough settle and focus for the last ten minutes, running the clock down until the final whistle.  A fantastic finish, Farnborough 4 - South Dartmoor 2.

Everyone played brilliantly and it was very difficult to single out an individual player, but the team voted Luke Barrett man of the match for his cool, calm and consistent defence.

Hockey Coach Dina Gurung commented, “I am very proud of the team, that was our best start to a match this season and they really stepped up.  Well done to all!”