The perfect way to end the season – that was the verdict from captain Stuart Richards as Ludlow signed off their Bodykraft Hockey League campaign with a sensational 3-1 home victory over Old Silhillians.
Victory, courtesy of three late goals, saw the revitalised South Shropshire men close the season with an impressive seven-game unbeaten run to not only avoid relegation from West Midlands division one but finish a highly creditable seventh place.
It was a remarkable turnaround after Ludlow had been in grave danger of the drop at the turn of the year.
Richards was delighted with the spirit of his charges, with the south Shropshire side even contemplating promotion next term following their revival. “This was the perfect way to end an ultimately successful season for Ludlow,” he said.
“Our goals were to avoid relegation and be competitive in this league, and they were goals we achieved with hard work and great team spirit.
“We would like to highlight the efforts of coaches Roger Furniss and Claire Stewardson, who were instrumental in our success this season, and we look forward to building on our first season in division one with success in the summer league fixtures and a push for promotion next season.”
In difficult weather conditions at Bridge Street Park, Leominster, both sides struggled to find rhythm in their passing in the early minutes of the game and possession was very even.
Ludlow’s fast-paced attack led to short corner chances which forced some good saves from the Old Silhillians goalkeeper.
The visitors created chances of their own, but a strong defence led by Kevin Williams and captain Richards, combined with some key saves from Darren Dixon in goal, kept the game scoreless heading into half time.
Both teams increased their efforts in the second half, but it was Old Silhillians who took the lead when a free hit from just outside the D was turned in at the left post.
Further superb saves from Dixon prevented Old Silhillians increasing their lead, before Ludlow’s persistence finally paid off when Luke Beddoes executed a perfect reverse-stick cross to find Adam Aspbury charging in on the right post to tie the scores with just 10 minutes remaining.
Moments later, Ludlow took the lead when Vijay Chumber set up Paul Chubb in front of goal and he directed the ball past the helpless Old Silhillians keeper.
The hosts increased their defensive efforts with strong tackling from Anthony Nobbs and confident play by Adam Aspbury to prevent their rivals getting back into the game.
Ludlow’s determined efforts overwhelmed the Old Silhillians midfield, who were crushed by a third goal as Chumber went on a dazzling run before flicking the ball into goal to seal victory.
The game was a fitting end to Ludlow’s season as they trailed for the early part of the campaign before finishing strongly.
They can now concentrate on out-of-season preparations for another exciting division one campaign.
