Lancaster & District Mixed delivered a truly commanding performance on Sunday, sweeping aside Fylde Mixed with a decisive 4-0 victory in the England Hockey Mixed Cup.
From the first whistle, the team's exceptional passing game was the defining feature. LDHC’s players moved the ball with pace and precision, establishing a rhythm that constantly frustrated the Fylde side, making it virtually impossible for the opposition to establish any sustained pressure.
The scoreboard started ticking early in the first half. A quickfire double put the home side in control, with Nina Helme finding the net in the 13th minute, swiftly followed by Joseph Slater in the 14th minute, giving LDHC a comfortable lead heading into the break.
The second half continued in the same vein. The breakthrough moment of the half came in the 44th minute when Ben Brookes—playing his final game for the club—slotted home the third goal, a fitting contribution on his momentous day. Harpreet Saran rounded off the scoring in the 55th minute to secure the comprehensive 4-0 win.
The only slight blot on the copybook came at the 45-minute mark when Larry Johnson received a green card, but the team quickly regrouped and maintained their structure.
While the attack was clinical, the defense was arguably the bedrock of this excellent result. Fylde had a few good breaks throughout the match, but they were consistently met with resolute defending.
A special mention must go to Player of the Match, Leighan Bleasdale, whose exceptional performance between the posts ensured a clean sheet. Leighan was unbeatable, marshalling the defense and making crucial saves to snuff out any hopes of a Fylde comeback.
The game held a special significance as it marked the final appearance for club stalwart Ben Brookes. Ben took the field alongside his daughter, Constance, forming a wonderful father-and-daughter partnership up front for one last time.
Ben, who has dedicated 37 years of service to Lancaster & District Hockey Club, having joined in 1988, is sadly forced to retire due to an ongoing injury. The club extends its heartfelt gratitude for his commitment and wishes him all the best in his retirement from playing. Scoring in your final game is the perfect way to sign off!
LDHC Squad: Kate Ayrton, Leighan Bleasdale, Ben Brookes, Constance Brookes, Lewis Brown, Alex Bush, Nina Helme, Lauren Helme, Casey Holliday, Adam Horrobin (Capt.), Larry Johnson, Katie Oliver, Harpreet Saran, Joe Slater, William Smith, Julie Walker
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