Mens Mavericks beat Hampstead and Westminster 4 - 0

The Mavericks kicked off the new season in style with a solid 4-0 win over a strong Hampstead side. Mavericks had prepared for the season with 2 friendly matches against Reading and Eastcote and this experience helped them the start brightly and make an immediate impact, Don Henley-King going close on several occasions.Sadly, Mavericks were unable to make the early pressure tell and Hampstead soon started to gain confidence and began to move the ball well. With much of the action taking place in midfield it looked unlikely that either side would break the deadlock. Just prior to halftime, Hampstead were awarded a penalty flick after a Maidenhead tackle was adjudged to be illegal. However, the resulting effort was foiled by Maidenhead ‘keeper Martin Jones.With all to play for the Mavericks returned to the field following half time with a renewed sense of resolve and less then 5 minutes into the half they were rewarded when John Harris poked home a loose ball from short range.The next 10 minutes saw the Mavericks completely in the ascendancy with 3 goals coming in quick succession. A rapid counter attack from the Maidenhead goalmouth found an unmarked Don Henley-King, who worked the ball skilfully around the Hampstead keeper. He followed this up immediately with another effort that went between the goalie’s legs. The rout was completed by Mike McEwan’s fierce short corner effort.A deflated Hampstead continued to fight back but a 4 goal deficit was too much to overcome. Maidenhead’s superior reading of the new rules made them difficult to break down and although Hampstead had chances, solid defence from Simon Gomes and Martin Jones kept them at bay.Captain Andy Marriott pronounced himself satisfied with the team’s performance, commenting “Now I know why we play hockey and how good it is to play with all of you.”