Wakefield 1 - Ben Rhydding Men 2
Report by Max Helme

Ben Rhydding Men’s 1st Team secured a hard-fought three points away at Wakefield HC, showing composure and resilience to see out a competitive encounter.

The opening quarter was an even affair, with both sides battling for control in a tightly contested midfield. Wakefield started the second quarter strongly and put Ben Rhydding under pressure, but goalkeeper Ed Snelling produced an important save to keep the hosts at bay and ensure the scores remained level at half time.

Ben Rhydding came out confidently after the break and began to play the better hockey. Rob Ramsden won the midfield battle, while the tireless pressing and intelligent leading of Carrick Matthews and young Man of the Match George Marsh repeatedly disrupted Wakefield’s build-up and created opportunities.

The pressure eventually told as Ben Rhydding earned a penalty corner, with Will Musgrave providing the finish to put the visitors 1–0 ahead.

The final quarter brought more of the same, and a clinical top-of-the-D strike from Callum Franks doubled the advantage with just ten minutes remaining.

Wakefield responded with a well-taken penalty corner of their own, setting up a tense finish. However, Ben Rhydding showed excellent composure and control to manage the final minutes and secure all three points.

A disciplined performance, a strong second half, and a valuable three points on the road