Hockey team scoop victory in national championship

THE SJD Men’s hockey team are celebrating after retaining the ‘National Hockey Plate’ for English and Welsh Tertiary and Sixth Form Colleges.

The team travelled to Bedford to defend their title and their hard work paid off as they brought home the silverware for the second year running.

The winning team included: Tom Hill, Mike Sambell, Harry Compton, Kieran Berrington, Martyn Lear, James Hallinan, George Cloake, Matt Drury, Lucas Roberts, Chris Ormandy, Jordan Brown, Tom Witter and James Charlton.

In the semi final round SJD’s defeated Worthing by 8 goals to 1. The first goal was scored in the first minute by captain Tom Hill, with a second following quickly from Chris Ormandy. Further goals came from Kieran Berrington who scored 2, then Martyn Lear, Mike Sambell and Jordan Brown. The final goal was scored by College Rugby captain James ‘Charlie’ Charlton, showing his versatility by playing in the hockey finals.

The final then saw the team defeat Havant by 6 goals to 2. Two goals were scored very early again by Lucas Roberts, which immediately put Havant under pressure. A string of excellent saves by goalkeeper Harry Compton from Havant’s England international player helped to ensure the victory, and then a further goal was scored by Kieran Berrington, before Mike Sambell scored an excellent hat-trick to end Havant’s challenge.

Other squad players who deserve an honourable mention for some excellent play were Tom Witter, Matt Drury, George Cloake and James Hallinan, who all defended calmly and with great skill.

SJD Hockey coach Sarah Brady said: “Congratulations to the whole squad on their impeccable behaviour throughout the day. They were a great credit to Sir John Deane’s College.”