OLD Halesonians Hockey Club failed to claim a win during a double-header weekend of action.

They drew 3-3 when hosting Bridgnorth at Ormiston Forge Academy on Saturday before losing 4-2 against rivals Stourport the following day.

Against Bridgnorth, Hales started the stronger side and soon got their reward when Paul Woodall converted from the penalty spot when there was a Bridgnorth foot on the goal line.

Old Halesonians continued to hit their visitors hard, and their high paced play was causing problems for the opposition defence. Harry Hughes was next on the score sheet before the break, when he tapped in from close range.

The second half initially started well, when well worked passing play down the right ended up with Graham Knight finding the ball inside the Bridgnorth circle. He rounded the keeper, and smashed home into the empty net to give Hales a 3-0 lead.

However, complacency set in, along with fatigue which saw Hales self-destruct as Bridgnorth fought back to share the spoils.

On Sunday, Old Hales faced Stourport in the first round of the NOW: Pensions Men’s Trophy.

With a changed side from the day previously, Hales started the game with much hope and a positive attitude which shone through when they took the lead through Graham Knight. Hales dominated the early periods of play, and held their own until the half-time break. Stourport came out fighting in the second half and soon equalised.

This didn’t deter Hales, however, and they took the lead again when Graham Knight tapped in at the back post. Stourport were forced once again to react, and they equalised for the second time through a powerful drag-flick.

The visitors took the lead for the first time in the game through a scrappy finish, before they finally got out-of-sight with a fourth, as Hales pushed forward looking for an equaliser for themselves. It was a spirited performance, which will put Hales in good stead for their long trip to bottom of the league Chesterfield this Saturday.