Western Wildcats Hockey Club

Western Wildcats Hockey Club News story


FIRST HOME GAMES OF THE SEASON FOR ONES

25 Sep 2019

Our first teams play their first home games of the season on Saturday, the men against Hillhead (1500) and the women against Glasgow University (1300).

The Women’s 1st Team fixture – sponsored by Rettie & Co – is one they should win. Wildcats got off to a flier last Saturday up in Aberdeen with a 5-0 win that could have been significantly more had it not been for excellent goalkeeping.

Kaz raved about how well the girls had played and especially new girl Ava Smith who scored on her debut and picked up the MVP award, too. This result gives the girls an excellent launchpad into a season where they are determined to challenge for the league title and more silverware.

She said, “The great thing about the game against Gordonians was how much of a team effort it was and how well we worked as a unit. It’s important that we take that ethos into this Saturday’s game.”

“I expect the Glasgow Uni game to be similar in that they will come to frustrate us. Last year we only beat them 1-0 at home and Wendy Justice will have them well organised. We are confident without being cocky. We know we cannot underestimate anyone and have to work hard for three points.”

One well kent face back in the team is club stalwart Rona Stewart who is “flying” according to Kaz. Adding her experience and quality to the mix can surely only be a good thing.

Also determined to challenge for trophies this seasonare the Men’s 1s who host Hillhead. Western came away with a doggedly earned point from Titwood and will see the visit of their West End rivals as a must win if they are to be serious championship contenders.

Hillhead were demolished 7-0 up on Tayside by Grove Menzieshill last Saturday but they welcome back a number of players missing from that encounter and should be much more competitive.

Vish felt that the point against Clydesdale was a good one given they were 2-0 down. However, he is looking for improvements against Hillhead. “We played quite well but a big issue was our finishing. We didn’t do nearly enough in the D either from open play or from corners. We are working hard on that this week and, if we can sharpen up, we’ll be in good shape on Saturday.”

The Women’s 2s play their first game in the Championship away to Ayr while the Men’s 2s are away to Grange 3s.

The West District leagues are prorogued – quite legally - for the September weekend so there are no other games.