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Martyrs Vs Old Waynfletes
The only thing lacking from the Martyrs
annual fixture against the MCS Waynfletes
was a full quota of opposition. As usual,
the Martyrs were over resourced, boasting
a depth of talent and familiar faces from
“the Al Fry years” to a smattering of 2015
leavers. With only a handful of Waynfletes
in attendance, mixed teams were the order
of the day and a host of Martyrs who also
boasted Old Dragon status stepped up
to support them. Sadly the quality of the
hastily assembled Old Dragon XI proved
too much for the Martyrs XI, whose
attacking flair was undermined by a sieve-
like defensive structure. Nonetheless, a very
enjoyable day in the September sun was had
by all. Thanks, as ever, should be extended
to
Phil Blanchard
(A, 1977-1982), John
Wiggins (MCR) and
Pete Swainson
(F,
1995-2000), who’s administrative and
“rallying” efforts ensure an enthusiasm for,
and quality of, OSE hockey that is matched
by few other schools.
Jasper Joyce
(K, 2005-2010)
sparked wild celebrations from the
Martyrs and their fans. Radley immediately
replied with a barrage of attacks but last
ditch challenges from
Huw Trythall
(C,
2000-2005) and
Tom Armstrong
(C,
2000-2005) took the Martyrs through
to half time a goal to the good. Spirits
were high amongst the lads and following
a number of strong challenges from
Ross Kerr
(F, 2000-2005), Radley soon
realised the task ahead was more Everest
than Nevis. With the woodwork quickly
becoming the Martyrs’ 12th man and a
series of headers from captain
Ben Riley
(A, 2000-2005) keeping the lead intact,
Radley continued to push forward allowing
a Leicester City-esque counter attack from
the Martyrs. A brace seemed written in
the stars only for
Tom Allen
to fluff his
lines leaving the tie closely poised going
into the last 10. The wind behind and a
storm brewing, Radley bombarded the
box but vital challenges from all - including
a last-ditch goal-line clearance from
Nick
Palmer
- thwarted any chances. Lungs
were bursting and players were falling but
the Martyrs held on for a well-deserved
Football
Martyrs Vs Radley Rangers
For the third year running on a cold and
blustery morning in West London, the
Martyrs saddled up for another episode
of thrills and spills vs. Radley Rangers.
With household names like
Nick Roblin
(G, 2000-2005),
Bertie Conibear
,
Ben Ridgway
(F, 2000-2005) and
Nick
Palmer
(H, 2000-2005), the Martyrs
started a pass-and-move game with a
Terry Venables-branded Christmas Tree
formation tightly held. After a relatively
benign first 15 minutes - and a goal apiece
disallowed for offside - the intent of
both sides was clear: Attack, and test the
referee’s resolve! Then, on the stroke
of the 25th minute, a pinpoint ball from
the midfield engine of
Adam Reeve
(C,
2000-2005) put through
Ben Lewis
(A,
2000-2005) who fired a shot across goal
and with the keeper unable to handle
the fizz, the ball fell to
Tom Allen
(B,
2000-2005) who duly obliged to poke
home from 2 ½ yards. Reminiscent of
a young(ish) Robbie Fowler, his heroics
Martyrs Vs Radley Rangers
victory and the all-important clean sheet;
a decade in the waiting but one for the
mantelpiece for
Nick Gleave.
Team spirit
and sportsmanship were exemplary both
on the pitch and in the ensuing hours. The
jars were certainly enjoyed, tasting that
bit sweeter after a famous result against
the Old Enemy. A special thanks must go
to the Martyrs for contributing funds to
help organise the day - such events are
important in keeping the spirit alive and
old rivalries burning.
Bertie Conibear
(E, 2000-2005)
and
Nick Gleave
(F, 2000-2005)
Jasper Joyce, Alastair Delafield (E, 1994-1999)
and Will Kerr-Dineen (G, 2003-2008) look on
as an Old Waynflete manages to get the ball
away while under pressure from two Martyrs.
M A R T Y R S