The Ladies 1s, sponsored by KJ Smith, set the tone this weekend with a spirited 1-1 draw against Oxford University, writes Bex Donaldson.
Ellen 'Titch' Knighton found the back of the net in a tightly contested match that showcased the team’s resilience and determination.
Meanwhile, the Ladies 2s gave everything they had in their 2-1 loss to Leighton Buzzard 1s.
With only 11 players, Liv Wade’s goal was a testament to the squad’s never-say-die attitude.
READ MORE: Basingstoke Hockey Club's Men's 4s unbeaten streak hits nine matches
The game had been evenly matched for most of the contest, making the result particularly frustrating.
Facing a strong Swanage and Wareham 1st team away, the Ladies 4s took heart in holding the home side for a good 20 minutes before Swanage took their first on a break.
Sadly, the final scoreline was 7-1, but it was Laurie McKenzie-Rosselli’s first time on the scoresheet for Basingstoke, plus an outstanding performance by Molly Morrison, and there were team moments to be proud of.
The Ladies 5s were narrowly beaten 2-1 by United Services Portsmouth, with Mieke Brown delivering a strong performance and their only goal.
For the Ladies 6s, it was a challenging day as they found themselves with a depleted squad and a 6-0 loss to Haslemere.
SEE MORE: Basingstoke Hockey Club ladies rebound strongly to beat Maidenhead
Despite the result, the game was filled with camaraderie and lighter moments, including Alyssa earning "Duck of the Day" after an unfortunate ball-to-foot incident and Jane providing entertainment with her Strictly Come Dancing-worthy rolls on the pitch.
In a spectacle of high-octane hockey, the Basingstoke Men’s 1XI went toe-to-toe with none other than the GB Senior Ladies squad on Monday evening, delivering a performance that will be talked about for weeks to come.
The match, played as part of the England team’s preparation for the Pro League in China, ended in a nail-biting 1-1 draw before Basingstoke clinched victory in a dramatic penalty shuffle shootout.
SEE ALSO: Basingstoke Hockey Club enjoy weekend of memorable moments
Basingstoke’s Dylan Brockbank found the back of the net with a clinical finish that sent the home supporters into raptures.
Not to be outdone, GB stepped up the pressure with a sublime equaliser that brought the match level.
The intensity was palpable as both sides battled fiercely, displaying skill, grit, and incredible determination.
When the final whistle blew, the teams turned to penalty shuffles to settle the score.
In a showcase of composure and precision, Basingstoke edged out their elite opposition, delivering a true memory to cherish.
The GB game clearly took its toll as in action again on Saturday, it was a tough 3-0 defeat to Marlow 1s.
The Men’s 2s, however, celebrated a commanding 4-2 victory over Havant 3s.
Liam Cave led the charge with two goals, supported by Patrick Ruane and Phil Stewart to secure an important win.
The 3s faced Haslemere and battled hard but fell short in a narrow 2-1 loss, with Captain Alex Hope netting their only goal.
The Men’s 4s continued their dominant form, claiming a remarkable 6-0 victory over Trojans 5s.
Jude Smithers shone brightly with a hat-trick, supported by Harrison Spicer-Martinez, John "JP" Vout, and Harry Cave.
Goalkeeper Felix Crisford delivered a stellar performance, ensuring a clean sheet and underlining the team’s defensive strength as they maintained their perfect season, now ten from ten and looking strong as they approach the Christmas break.
The Men’s 5s had a tougher time, losing 4-0 to the youth of Southampton University, while the 6s delivered an exciting 5-1 triumph over Gosport 3s.
Jack Youngs was the star of the show with two goals, joined on the scoresheet by Kim Metcalf, Adam Neighbour, and Tim Gearing.
This well-rounded team performance showcased the 6s’ attacking flair and determination to secure the win.
This week was a reminder of the passion, skill, and unity across all of Basingstoke Hockey Club’s teams.
Whether it’s a hard-earned point, a dominant victory, or a battling defeat, the spirit of hockey was alive and well.
We look forward to seeing what next weekend has in store for our teams, and we welcome visitors warmly as among the weekend’s fixtures, our Mens’ 1s will welcome Oxford Uni 1s to Down Grange, sure to be an exciting encounter!
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