The Men’s 5s began their season away at Southend 4s, newly promoted from the division below. With several key players missing, the squad was boosted by call-ups from Damian, Oli, William, Percy, and Nick plus Vaz bravely stepping into goal.

The game started brightly, having won the toss we pressed hard resulting in a short, masterfully converted with Donka firing home to put Loughts ahead. Sadly Southend levelled quickly, added a second before the break, and caught Loughts sleeping on the restart, struck again straight after half-time to go 3–1 up.

Phil clawed one back midway through the second half, and the 5s pressed hard with a series of short corners in the final 1/4 but despite piling on the pressure and Ozzie slamming and hang ball at the goal the equaliser never came. Final score: 3–2 to Southend.

Man of the Match goes to Percy – excellent debut call-up performance from 7s.
DOD award went to Ari – opening the account for the season.

Next week we host Chelmsford (also promoted) with an 11:30 pushback — and the honour of being the first competitive fixture on Old Loughtonians’ newly laid Pitch 1. Bets are on for the first goal scorer name written in the history books, a big occasion, and a big chance to get the result. Make sure to be in the crowd for this hockey spectacular!!! Report to follow…