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Mens First XI Hockey
The men's 1st team competes in the North East Premier League. The team focus is on the development of talented youngsters led by a core of experienced players.
The first team finished runners up last season and aim to go one better in the 2012 /13 campaign.
The side has the benefit of a good balance of experienced players and many youngsters who have come through the clubs coaching programme from under 10s.
Whilst committed on the pitch, the 1st team also promotes a social aspect to being part of Harrogate Hockey Club. The team frequently helps arrange social events which extend through the club to encourage inter-team friendships and camaraderie.
Training and Contact
Training is from 7.30 pm at the club on a Tuesday night for 1st and 2nds squads.
Captain: Peter Shipston petershipston@gmail.com or 07854 457878
Coach: Gary Nash gary@emblazon.biz or 07870 415942
Harrogate hockey finished their season in style on Tuesday night with a 7-1 thrashing of Marton Furness.
The display capped off a wonderful campaign for Gary Nash's team, as they won the North Division Two East title by ten points from Lincoln Roses.
The Granby-based club will now go into North Division One next year and they could not have wished to sign off this season in a better way than with a passionate and energetic victory under the Harrogate floodlights.
Charles Edmondson, who was voted the club's player of the year, grabbed a hat-trick, with Luke Lambert and veterans Russ Bowen and Greg Crossley providing 'Gate with their magnificent seven.
The victory was all the more important to erase the memory of last Saturday's disappointing showing against Wakefield where Harrogate were beaten 4-2.
Coach Nash was delighted with his side's efforts on Tuesday night and was left to reflect on an excellent season for his side.
"Tonight was a great way to finish a great season for Harrogate. Whilst the title was won weeks ago I wanted a champions' performance and the players responded," he said.
"Harrogate should be proud of this team, which is made up of Harrogate people proudly representing their town. They have shown that Harrogate can produce winning teams.
"I would like to congratulate Harrogate Grammar School, Harrogate High School, Ashville College and Rossett High School who all have players that first picked up a stick at school. I hope we can get many more boys coming through and winning leagues for Harrogate."
A number of the first team squad will also be in action this Saturday as Harrogate's second XI attempt to add to the silverware cupboard by retaining the Yorkshire Cup.
It is a trophy which the first XI won last season and Joe Lyon will lead his side out in Halifax against Brigg in front of a large number of travelling 'Gate fans.
Team v Marton Furness: Stanworth, Wilcock, Thompson, Norman, Maclaverty, Shipston (c), Bowen, Crossley, Lambert, Edmondson, Lockwood. Subs: Hotham, Bevington, Lyon
Goals: Edmondson (3), Lambert (1), Bowen (1), Crossley (1), own goal (1)
Team v Wakefield: Stanworth, Wilcock, Thompson, Norman, Maclaverty, Shipston (c), Bowen, Crossley, Lambert, Edmondson, Lockwood. Subs: Lyon, Nash
Harrogate Hockey seal Division Two East title
Harrogate will play their final home game of the season on Saturday as the North Hockey Division Two East champions after they clinched the three points they required to win the league.
The Granby-based club welcome Marton Furness this weekend (3pm push back) and will look to turn on the style knowing that they will be playing in Division One next year.
Marton themselves are threatened by relegation and will be desperate for a victory themselves, but coach Gary Nash is hoping that his players can rise to the challenge once more to entertain what could be a large crowd.
Last weekend 'Gate were made to work hard by bottom-of-the-table Leeds Adel Carnegie in a game where both sides had everything to play for, albeit for different reasons.
Adel threw everything at the league champions-in-waiting, as Harrogate struggled to get their attacking game going.
When 'Gate did rediscover their touch they managed to create plenty of opportunities, with Charles Edmondson netting the side's 100th goal of the campaign.
Russell Bowen rolled back the years to add a second before half time, with Edmondson sealing the points and a 3-0 win with his second later in the game.
In a game of landmarks, Harrogate also recorded their first clean sheet of the season thanks to a solid rearguard action in the last 20 minutes.
"Adel was always going to be a nervous occasion. The result was the all important thing and to clinch the title with two games to go is a fantastic feeling, we have dominated the league from week one and proved worthy winners," said proud coach Gary Nash.
"We have a great bunch of quality players at Harrogate and without getting carried away, I know they can do back to back promotions next year, they are that good. I am already looking forward to the challenge.
"We will celebrate on Saturday when we play Marton in our last home game, and I'm hoping the players can turn on the style as champions," he added.
Granby will be a hot-bed of activity on Saturday, with the men's first team game being preceded by the ladies first team and men's second eleven.
Team: Stanworth, Wilcock, Norman (c), Gibbons, Maclaverty, Bowen, Bevington, Sennett, Lambert, Edmondson, Lyon. Subs: Hotham, Thompson.
Goals: Edmondson (2), Bowen
Harrogate will clinch the North Hockey Division Two East title on Saturday if they beat bottom-of-the-table Leeds Adel Carnegie.
The Granby outfit require just two points from their remaining three matches to secure promotion to Division One ahead of rivals Lincoln Roses.
'Gate produced a battling display last weekend to claim a 4-1 victory over Leeds, putting them a step closer to realising their ambition which was marked out at the start of the season.
They now go into this weekend's tie against relegation-threatened Adel Carnegie (1.30pm push back) with a warning from coach Gary Nash to avoid any form of complacency.
"We have a really professional job to do on Saturday and must maintain our determination over the finishing line to avoid any hiccups. Training and preparation will remain focused for Saturday. It is important not to rush ahead and think the job is done, especially as we play the bottom of the league side," he added.
Against Leeds the hosts had to weather an inauspicious start in freezing-cold conditions to eventually come away with the three points.
'Gate took the lead mid-way through the first half with Russell Bowen pouncing on a loose ball in the 'D' before Josh Lyon, who stepped up from the second team, then raced clear to slot calmly past the 'keeper.
Captain Pete Shipston converted a penalty flick after Graeme Bevington was barged over when about to shoot on goal to put Harrogate three goals to the good at half-time.
The league leaders' attempts to claim their first clean sheet of the season were blown away within the first five minutes of the re-start, but after a fiery 20-minute spell Lyon put the game beyond doubt with his 30th and Harrogate's 99th goal of the campaign.
"We were good value for the win on Saturday controlling most of the play. I was pleased with the way the players adapted and accommodated to the tactics as the game developed.
"I was delighted with Josh Lyon who demonstrated he will be a first team regular next season but old boy Russell Bowen was the outstanding man of the match," said a delighted Nash.
Team: Stanworth, Wilcock, Thompson, Gibbons, Shipston, Bevington, Sennett, Crossley, Bowen, Lambert, Lyon. Subs: Hotham, Maclaverty, Nash
Harrogate two wins from title after Sunderland win
Harrogate are now just five points away from winning the North Hockey Division Two East title after they defeated Sunderland 5-1 last weekend.
And it means that they could even be celebrating on Saturday if they defeat Leeds at Granby (1.30pm push back) and Lincoln Roses lose to the relegation-threatened Wearsiders.
By racking up another victory last weekend, Harrogate's 15th of the season, they have kept their eight-point gap ahead of Lincoln, while also ensuring that Sunderland stay in the bottom two places in the league.
Next up for Gary Nash's team are Leeds, a side which the league leaders defeated 5-1 before Christmas but they were made to work hard for the three points.
Against Sunderland, it was Harrogate's much lauded front three which did the damage, taking the side to 95 goals so far this season.
Simon Lockwood netted twice, one a cheeky reverse stick deflection past the 'keeper, with Luke Lambert, Charles Edmondson and Russ Bowen also getting on the scoresheet for the blues.
The contest itself was over by half-time, with 'Gate racing in to a 5-1 lead, and despite the best efforts of both sides, there were no further goals in the second period.
And while Sunderland did threaten on the counter attack, Mark Gibbons, Graeme Bevington and Stuart Norman provided a solid defensive rearguard which the hosts were unable to bypass on too many occasions.
Top scorer Edmondson, 18, who has 26 goals so far this campaign, added: "We were happy with the win but it was a poor game in truth. Making sure we got the three points was the important thing."
The striker is unavailable for this weekend's match along with fellow frontman Lockwood and defensive lynchpin Norman, but he is confident that the squad has enough strength in depth to get another win.
"As long as we defend well we are always going to score goals. We have been focusing on being responsible for our own roles, and if everyone does their job on Saturday, we should have a good chance of getting the victory."
Team: Stanworth, Thompson, Sennett, Norman, Gibbons, Bevington, Bowen, Crossley, Lambert, Lockwood, Edmondson. Sub: Shipston (c)
Harrogate come up smelling of roses after crucial Lincoln win
Harrogate took a massive step towards winning the North Hockey Division Two East title after they beat Lincoln Roses 4-3 in a thrilling match at Granby.
It extends the side's lead to eight points at the top of the table over last weekend's rivals with just five games left to play.
Coach Gary Nash was delighted with his team's performance against Lincoln, but has reminded his troops that they have won nothing yet. Their run-in begins this weekend away at Sunderland (2pm push back), with the Wearsiders needing a victory of their own to take them out of the relegation zone.
"We all celebrated what was a superb team performance; every player was on his game and gave his all. We bossed the game, showed immense pace and skill at times and finished clinically. I was delighted with the way the team kept to the tactics to earn their win," said an ecstatic coach.
"We have to get back down to earth however as we still have work to do to win the league. It is ours to take if we remain focussed.
"Discipline and a good attitude are things we will need on Saturday as Sunderland can be an awkward side to play. We won by the odd goal in the last two outings against and them and are expecting a tough match," he added.
Last weekend Harrogate battled back from being a goal down to take a 3-2 lead in to the break in front of a passionate Granby crowd.
The visitors opened the scoring after 15 minutes following a spell of pressure which saw 'keeper Rob Stanworth make a number of excellent saves.
The setback provided the impetus for Harrogate to throw caution to the wind and they scored three goals in relatively quick succession to put their opponents on the back foot.
Lincoln arrived in Harrogate knowing that they had to win to keep their title hopes alive, and fought their way back in to the game with a short corner goal just before the break.
'Gate responded in positive fashion once again and a composed second-half performance settled any nerves which might have been hovering, with Charles Edmondson completing a hat-trick and David Swarbrick grabbing the other goal.
The victory was all the more impressive after 'Gate were thrashed 7-1 by the same opposition earlier this season.
Harrogate will seal the title and promotion to North Hockey Division One if they pick up eight points from their remaining five games.
Stanworth, Norman (c), Thompson, Wilcock, Sennett, Bevington, Crossley, Bowen, Lambert, Edmondson, Lockwood. Subs: Gibbons, Maclaverty, Swarbrick
This Saturday (February 23rd) Harrogate's men 1st XI host Lincoln Roses at 1.30pm at Granby, and the team would appreciate your support.
Harrogate are 5 points clear at the top of the league, with Lincoln in second place (having beaten us earlier in the season). A victory for Harrogate will all but guarantee the league title.
Please come down and cheer us on and make Granby a fortress. Bring friends and family who might not have seen hockey before, as it promises to be a fiercely competitive game between two excellent sides.
We look forward to seeing you on Saturday!
Stannie
Saturday February 16th
'Gate's lead at the top cut to five points ahead of Roses clash
Saturday February 9th
'Gate face 'most important game of the season'
Harrogate are gearing up for the most crucial game of their North Division Two East season so far, with coach Gary Nash believing that Saturday's match at Sheffield Bankers has greater importance than next weekend's top of the table battle against Lincoln Roses.
The Granby side head to the steel city (1.45pm push back) with their eight-point cushion at the summit still intact after a show of desire and character against Leeds Gryphons.
Nash's troops dominated the opening exchanges but found themselves 3-1 down with 20 minutes left to play as the students offered up a stern examination.
'Gate were hindered by injuries to Russ Bowen and Charles Edmondson, while Leeds were boosted in their pursuit for victory by some slack marking from the visitors.
However, a sensational first-time looping deflection by Edmondson, one of four goals for the in-form striker, got his side firing and Luke Lambert added two more to his tally as 'Gate completed a stunning comeback to win 6-3.
After fighting their way to a 4-3 lead, Harrogate were allowed to close out the game in relative ease after the Leeds coach decided to remove his goalkeeper from the action in a bid to overrun their opponents.
The move backfired and the Granby club were able to pick their spot to score two late goals into an unguarded net.
"I was pleased with the overall performance against Leeds who spent the majority of the game with their players defending deep into their half. Possession wise we dominated the game and deserved the three points," said a relieved coach.
"We did concede some soft goals and we will address that in training this week as it put us under more pressure than we should have allowed. However on a positive note we had a number of players out so to come through the game with a win sets everything up well for the next two weeks.
"We play the only teams to have taken points off us in the next two weeks so we have a massive fortnight but if we can get two wins it will be as good as winning the league," added Nash.
Meanwhile a bruised and battered Harrogate Ladies side picked up two points last weekend with 1-1 draws at home to Pendle Forest and away to University of Leeds.
Rachel Till and Emily Dunne were both taken to hospital after Saturday's game with injuries, while Emma Swarbrick was also nursing a head injury, although all three are hoping to be back in action sooner than first anticipated.
The results leave 'Gate in fifth position and they travel to Brooklands Poynton this weekend (1.30pm push back) looking to close the gap on the teams above them.
"Saturday was not a great game and was very aggressive, with Em getting hit in the mouth and Rach Till damaging her ankle," said 'keeper Sam Swenson.
"On Sunday we were much better against Leeds but missed quite a few opportunities, as well as the injured girls."
Team: Stanworth, Hotham, Gibbons, Thompson, Shipston (c), Bevington, Crossley, Bowen, Lambert, Lockwood, Edmondson. Sub: Wilcock
Saturday February 2nd
Harrogate continue title march with Dragon slaying
The commitment of Harrogate's players was praised by coach Gary Nash after his side thrashed Huddersfield Dragons to keep their North Division Two East title ambitions on track.
The Granby-based club was forced to arrange indoor training sessions during the past few weeks because of the bad weather, a move which paid off last weekend with a 7-2 victory.
Harrogate now face Leeds Gryphons on Saturday at Weetwood (1.30pm push back) as they look to build on their eight-point gap at the top of the table ahead of Lincoln Roses.
Against the Dragons Harrogate were understandably rusty but some incisive forward effectively ended the game by half time, with the home side leading 6-0.
Charles Edmondson scored the pick of the goals, producing a stunning reverse stick finish after a clever disguised pass from Graeme Bevington.
"The second half was disappointing but one of those halves you consign to Room 101 and forget about rather than analyse too much," said coach Nash
"We face much tougher opposition on Saturday in Leeds who had a close encounter with second place Lincoln last week losing by the single goal, so the fight for the title starts here. We must travel with confidence and the belief that our league status has given us but realise that if we do not focus we can easily underperform like we did in the second half on Saturday," he added.
Harrogate are waiting to hear on injured trio Bevington, Russell Bowen and Othon Sennett ahead of their visit to Leeds, but Nash is confident that the club's strength in depth will help them cope with any absentees.
Meanwhile, ladies defender Cecilia Allen praised her team's character after overcoming a sluggish pitch and slow start to record a 3-1 win over Deesside Ramblers.
Alison Wales was the hat-trick hero with three fine finishes, putting her side just eight points off the top of the league in fifth position.
"We took a while to get in to our stride with Deeside enjoying most of the possession in the first ten minutes on a really sandy pitch. However, once we got to grips with the surface we started playing some good hockey and passing it around with confidence," said Allen.
"The defence was disappointed not to come away with the clean sheet that we deserved after an unfortunate own goal."
Allen also believes that while catching Didsbury and Lancaster at the top of North Hockey Division One might be a tough task, her side has the capability to go on a winning run and cause an upset.
Brooklands are just one point ahead and Deeside a further four in front, although 'Gate do have a game in hand.
"We have nine games left and are playing well. With a final big push and a bit of luck, I think the girls could surprise a few teams and put us in contention for winning the league," said Allen.
On Saturday Harrogate welcome struggling Pendle to Granby (1.30pm push back), before travelling to Brooklands for a mouthwatering clash.
Team: Stanworth, Hotham, Thompson, Gibbons, Shipston (c), Bevington, Bowen, Crossley, Lambert, Edmondson, Lockwood. Subs: Swarbrick, Norman, Sennett
Saturday January 12th
Coach Gary Nash has warned his Harrogate Hockey side to take one game at a time, despite stretching their lead at the top of North Division Two East to eight points.
The Granby-based club welcome Marton Furness on Saturday (1.30pm push back) and will be looking for back-to-back victories after beating third place Chapeltown 2-1 last weekend.
The victory all but rules the Sheffield side out of the title race, while Harrogate' closest rivals Lincoln Roses also dropped two points as they were held to a 1-1 draw against Wakefield.
Against Chapeltown 'Gate raced into an early two-goal lead thanks to strikes from Charles Edmondson. However, the home side recovered well and were able to keep the ball for long periods of time without really hurting the visitors.
'Gate's defence and goalkeeper stood firm until the closing minutes when Chapeltown made their pressure tell, although it only proved to be a consolation goal.
"Saturday was a great performance. We knew that we had to keep composed and I was delighted with the discipline and attitude of the players. If they maintain this approach for the next nine matches they will win the league," said an ecstatic Nash.
"We have a lot of hockey left to play though. The focus now has to be on the next game and not the finishing line, it is very easy to get relaxed with the position we are in. Marton on Saturday will be no pushovers but with a good home support and another determined display I expect us to gain three points."
Harrogate's 2nd XI were also celebrating this weekend after booking their place in the Yorkshire Cup final following a 4-1 victory over Normandy Park.
Josh Lyon grabbed an impressive hat-trick with captain Joe Lyon also getting on the scoresheet. The team will now meet last season's runners-up Brigg on April 12th.
Team: Stanworth, Wilcock, Gibbons, Thompson, Shipston (c), Bevington, Crossley, Bowen, Lambert, Edmondson, Lockwood. Sub: Hotham.
Goals: Edmondson (2)
Saturday and Sunday December 15th/16th
Harrogate top of the tree for Christmas break
Harrogate Hockey Club will go into the Christmas break with a six-point lead over their nearest rivals after producing two excellent performances last weekend.
The Granby-based side turned it on against Doncaster with an 11-1 victory on Saturday, before dispatching Leeds 5-1 a day later to confirm their dominance of North Division Two East.
The players now have three weeks off before they return to action against Chapeltown on January 12th.
On Saturday 'Gate took their time to get into their stride and despite going close on a number of occasions, went into the half-time break with the scores level at 1-1.
Within five minutes of the restart Harrogate netted three times and broke the resolve of a Doncaster side lacking the heart for a fight back. Some fast, slick one-touch hockey and a host of well-taken finishes helped Gary Nash's side run riot, with Luke Lambert (4), Russ Bowen (3), Simon Lockwood (2), Charles Edmondson (1) and Othon Sennett (1) getting their name on the score sheet.
Following the club's festive party on Saturday night, 'Gate travelled to Weetwood and shrugged the headaches to produce a battling performance full of character and desire.
It was a true all-round display from Harrogate, with the defence and goalkeeper standing firm, while the midfield and attack produced an excellent work rate to deny the opposition space and time.
Edmondson was the hat-trick hero for the league leaders, with Josh Lyon and Greg Crossley also notching.
"The lads were outstanding this weekend and have hit form at the right time, heading into the second half of the season. We are looking to get some sessions indoors and a friendly arranged so we are ready for the next game on January 12th against third placed Chapeltown," said coach Nash.
"It will be a tough test in the second half as we will be the side everyone wants to beat, but the team are getting mentally strong and the belief that we have a special squad of players will help."
Team v Doncaster: Stanworth, Wilcock, Thompson, Norman, Shipston (c), Bevington, Crossley, Kulpa, Bowen, Edmondson, Lambert. Subs: Lockwood, Sennett.
Team v Leeds: Stanworth, Redman, Thompson, Norman, Shipston (c), Kulpa, Crossley, Bowen, Sennett, Lambert, Edmondson. Sub: Lyon
Saturday December 8th
Free-scoring Harrogate head into this weekend's double-header in fine form after hitting double figures at home to Leeds Adel Carnegie last time out.
The Granby side welcome Doncaster on Saturday (1.30pm push back) before making the trip to Weetwood on Sunday to play Leeds (1.40pm push back) for a rearranged fixture, after ice forced the original date to be postponed a fortnight ago.
The games come after a fine weekend for Gary Nash's side, who dismantled Carnegie 11-3 before seeing all of their closest title rivals drop points.
It means that they now have a three-point lead over Lincoln Roses with a game in hand, while Chapeltown and Sheffield University Bankers are five and six points behind respectively.
Last weekend's win was all the more impressive after Polish international Bart Zywiczka signed for Timperley.
Harrogate's attacking play was fluid and clinical, with Charles Edmondson (4), Luke Lambert (3) and Simon Lockwood (2) all taking advantage of some excellent creativity, while Othon Sennett and Russ Bowen also notched.
"It has turned out to be a fantastic weekend for us with the three sides below us dropping points. I was delighted with the overall performance, the forwards were deadly and combined well in and around the attacking circle," said coach Nash.
"We still have to tighten up defensively as a unit and not gift the opposition as many easy chances and we will be a real force in the second half of the season.
"Doncaster travel to us on Saturday and will be strong, so we have to be at our best to overcome them. If the forwards play like they did last Saturday they will not be able to compete."
Team: Stanworth, Wilcock, Norman, Thompson, Shipston (c), Bevington, Kulpa, Crossley, Bowen, Edmondson, Lambert. Subs: Lockwood, Sennett
Goals: Edmondson (4), Lambert (3), Lockwood (2), Sennett (1), Bowen (1)
Saturday December 1st
Harrogate searching for two wins before Christmas break
Harrogate have set their sights on heading into the Christmas break with two more victories under their belt to finish the year on top of North Hockey Division Two East.
Gary Nash's side face Leeds Adel Carnegie at Granby this Saturday (midday push back) and then welcome Doncaster as they complete the first half of the season's fixtures.
Last weekend they were unable to play against Leeds Men's as the water-based pitch was frozen, much to the disappointment of the squad who were in high spirits after the week's training.
Gary Nash's side currently hold a two-point lead at the top of the table over Chapeltown, with Lincoln Roses and Sheffield University Bankers a further two points behind.
'Gate are still waiting to find out when they will have to replay their cancelled fixture, and it could fit into the calendar before the Christmas break.
Goalkeeper Rob Stanworth believes that finishing the year at the top of the tree will provide the encouragement to go on and win the league in the second half of the campaign.
"It has been a strange season so far, we have played well in parts but probably haven't fired on all cylinders just yet. Leeds Adel are in the relegation zone so they will come here fighting for their lives, and we know all about Doncaster from our hard-fought victory there earlier this year.
"If we can pick up two more wins then it sets us up perfectly for after Christmas. We will then be able to work on a few things in training and really hit the ground running after the break."
Harrogate Ladies also fell victim to the freezing conditions last Saturday as their trip north to Morpeth was cancelled.
They currently sit seventh in North Hockey Division One and welcome bottom-of-the-table Leeds Adel Carnegie on Saturday (1.30pm push back).
However, two victories before the Christmas break could conceivably put them up in fourth place, which would be a fair reflection of the girls' performances this season, according to manager Heather Swarbrick.
Saturday November 24th
'Gate weather Sunderland storm in sea of fog
Harrogate have extended their lead at the top of the North Division Two East table to four points after overcoming Sunderland in a 12-goal thriller under a blanket of fog at Granby.
They now make the short journey to Weetwood this Saturday (1.40pm start) where they take on fifth place Leeds 2s.
'Gate go into the game sitting pretty at the top of the league, but things could have been worse after they were given a fright by a clinical Sunderland side last weekend.
After starting the game well under the shadow of thick fog, Gary Nash's side were soon behind in the contest as the Wearside club capitalised on two counter attacks.
Harrogate fought their way back into the game with goals from Russ Bowen, Othon Sennett and an own goal, surging into a 3-2 lead.
However, with 'Gate struggling to get their passing game going Sunderland edged their way back in front and then missed a gilt-edged chance to go 5-3 ahead midway through the second period.
This proved to be the catalyst for a Harrogate revival, with three goals in quick succession from captain Pete Shipston, Luke Lambert and Bart Zywiczka, as the visitors began to crumble under some instinctive attacking play.
Lambert in particular was causing problems down the right-hand side, and Polish international Zywiczka saved the best goal for last with a fine reverse-stick shot which flashed into the far corner.
There was still time for Sunderland to get another goal from a penalty corner, but the Granby side were able to see things out to record a 7-5 win.
Coach Nash believes that the result flattered Sunderland who were very "clinical with the few chances they had".
"We could have had double figures on another day. It's looking like it will be a three-horse race with Lincoln, Chapeltown and ourselves.
"Leeds will be a tough proposition on Saturday and we will again have to be at our best, especially in breaking their offensive play down."
Team: Stanworth, Redman, Thompson, Bevington, Shipston (c), Kulpa, Zywiczka, Bowen, Crossley, Edmondson, Lambert. Subs: Lockwood, Sennett
Goals: Zywiczka (2), Lambert, Sennett, Bowen, Shipston (flick), OG
Saturday November 17th
'Gate wilt against blooming Roses
Harrogate are looking to bounce back this weekend against Sunderland after a shock 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Lincoln Roses.
Gary Nash's side welcome Sunderland to Granby on Saturday (1.30pm push back) and will hope to get their North Division Two East title charge back on track.
Their chances are boosted by the return of Luke Lambert, who rejoins the club from Preston having spent the second half of last season in the side following a move from Ben Rhydding.
Against Lincoln, Harrogate found themselves a goal down in the opening ten minutes as Lincoln's pace, movement and teamwork proved too hot to handle.
The hosts were able to find their way to goal with far too much ease and took a 4-0 lead into the half-time break.
The second period did not start much better for Harrogate, and despite a goal from captain Stu Norman, the visitors were left to reflect on one of their worst performances in recent times.
"The style of free flowing hockey Harrogate enjoys makes us an unpredictable side and hard to defend but the downside to that is when things go wrong we have no set structure to turn things around and we are exposed to the occasional bad result," said coach Nash.
Goal: Norman
Harrogate's lead at the top of North Division Two East remains at five points after a frustrating 1-1 draw against Sheffield University Bankers.
The Granby side maintained their seven-match unbeaten run but were unable to put further space between them and their second-place opponents last weekend. They now head to Lincoln Roses (13.30 push back) looking to keep their title push going.
Against Sheffield 'Gate missed a number of chances and were then caught by a late goal, leaving them to settle for a point from a game which they dominated in large parts.
Charles Edmondson added to his tally with a smart first-time deflection from Greg Crossley's pass, while Simon Lockwood hit the post and Crossley fired wide as the pressure built on the visitors.
A well-organised Sheffield side proved hard to break down and with five minutes remaining they pounced on a loose ball across the pitch to level the scoreline.
Things could have been worse for 'Gate who had captain Pete Shipston booked for dissent, and he will now miss Saturday's trip to Lincoln.
"Whilst the result was disappointing on Saturday I was delighted with the performance and to dominate the play like we did against second in the table makes me confident that we can go on to dominate this league. We have not hit form yet so when we do the rest of the division will not live with us," enthused coach Gary Nash.
Joy of six for rampant Harrogate
Harrogate produced another impressive display to consign Wakefield to their first defeat of the season and stretch their winning run to six games.
The Granby-based side welcome second-place Sheffield University Bankers this Saturday (midday push back) and could extend their lead over the challengers to eight points after only seven games of the North Hockey Division Two East season.
Last weekend, Charles Edmondson rounded the 'keeper and finished from a narrow angle to give 'Gate a well-deserved lead.
In what was a keenly-contested match, Wakefield equalised from a penalty flick after Rob Stanworth was adjudged to have brought down the visitors' striker when through on goal.
Bart Zywiczka then put Harrogate back in the lead with a low drag flick before compatriot Jarek Kulpa notched his first for the club. Wakefield scored a late consolation with a deflected shot which came through a crowd of bodies but Gary Nash's men were able to hold on for a 3-2 victory and the three points.
'Gate will be without Dave Swarbrick this weekend who returns to school rugby, while Pete Shipston is an injury doubt having played twice in one weekend.
Team: Stanworth, Thompson, Norman, Bevington, Shipston (c), Kulpa, Zywiczka, Bowen, Crossley, Edmondson, Swarbrick. Sub: Sennett
Saturday October 26th
Harrogate hammer Huddersfield to go 5 points clear
Harrogate are now five points clear at the top of the table after slaying Huddersfield Dragons 8-2.
The Granby outfit eased to victory against the side who are propping up North Hockey Division Two East in what was in truth a poor game.
Reminiscent of last season's fixture Harrogate started slowly and found themselves a goal down, however this provided the spark that they needed and they soon rattled in four quick goals to all but end the contest.
Both sides had to contest with a sub-standard playing surface and Huddersfield closed the gap from a penalty corner, but 'Gate went into the break 5-2 up with another incisive breakaway.
Three further strikes in the second half made the scoreline emphatic, but the most important thing was another three points and extending the team's perfect start to five matches.
The departing Steve Couture notched a hat-trick, with Bart Zywiczka (2), Simon Lockwood (2) and Dave Swarbrick also getting on the scoresheet.
Centre-back Graeme Bevington was happy that his side stuck to their task: "I thought on Saturday we dealt well with difficult conditions, the pitch was poor and the opposition just tried to disrupt our play rather than try and dictate play themselves. They sat deep when we were in possession and tried to break by crashing long balls forward."
Harrogate now face a season-defining November, with tough fixtures at home against Wakefield (1.30 start this weekend) and Sheffield University Bankers, before travelling to Lincoln Roses, in the knowledge that three victories will see Gary Nash's side put some real daylight between themselves and the rest of the league.
"I think we've set ourselves up perfectly going into these games and it's now important that we raise our game to keep up the winning run. If we can remain undefeated after these games then we will have taken a big step towards winning the league."
Team: Stanworth, Shipston, Thompson, Bevington, Redman, Kulpa, Zywiczka, Bowen, Swarbrick, Edmondson, Lockwood. Subs: Couture, Sennett
Goals: Couture (3), Lockwood (2), Zywiczka (2), Swarbrick (1)
Saturday October 19th
Leeds lashed by super 7 from 'Gate
Harrogate produced a sensational second-half display against Leeds Gyphons to record a 7-1 win and move three points clear at the top of North Division Two East.
The home side, playing in front of a bumper crowd with the vice presidents' lunch taking place in the clubhouse, found themselves a goal down mid-way through the first period in what was an evenly contested 35 minutes.
'Gate had a number of chances which they failed to capitalise on while Rob Stanworth was forced into one full-length stick save as the play moved from one end to another.
However, the introduction of the returning Dave Swarbrick, who has rejoined the club from Ben Rhydding, turned the game on its head and saw Harrogate notch four times in the first ten minutes of the second-half.
Polish international Bart Zywiczka and Russ Bowen both grabbed a brace with Swarbrick scoring a hat-trick.
It was a true team performance from Harrogate, with a solid defensive display providing the base for some excellent attacking play further up the field.
Nick Wilcock and Steve Thompson were particularly influential at the back, while Jarek Kulpa, Charles Edmondson and new dad Simon Lockwood also shone with their outstanding work rate.
Harrogate travel to Huddersfield this Saturday (1.30pm start) looking for another three points against a side who are currently bottom of the league having lost all four games so far this season.
Team: Stanworth, Wilcock, Thompson, Bevington, Norman, Kulpa, Bowen, Crossley, Zywiczka, Edmondson, Sennett. Subs: Lockwood, Swarbrick, Shipston
Harrogate go 2 points clear with after hitting Marton for 6
Harrogate are two points clear at the top of North Division Two (East) after another fighting performance against Marton Furness last weekend.
Gary Nash's side ran out 6-2 winners and continued their perfect start to the season, making it nine points from nine.
They welcome Leeds Gryphons this weekend (1.30pm push back) and are looking for a good performance in front of a bumper vice-presidents' lunch crowd.
Last Saturday 'Gate found themselves a goal down midway through the first half as the visitors left themselves exposed to direct through balls.
However, a late rally before half-time allowed Stu Norman's side to go in to the break with a narrow 2-1 advantage.
The second half was a much-improved affair, with Steve Couture, Bart Zywiczka and Jarek Pulka linking up well in midfield.
Marton still posed a threat however and the Harrogate back five were kept busy, although three goals in quick succession towards the end of the game sealed the victory.
Zywiczka added to his debut hat-trick with a brace of goals, while Charles Edmondson, Couture, Norman and Russ Bowen all notched.
In truth, 'Gate could have won the game more comfortably, although the number of chances created will please the coach.
After the game captain Norman praised the side's work rate as "the best I have seen since I came to the club", while the integration of Harrogate's new Polish players into the team's style of play took another step forward.
Harrogate go top as new boy Polish-es off Chapeltown
Harrogate have moved to the top of the North Hockey Division Two (East) league after a fighting victory over Chapeltown.
New boy Bart Zywiczka was the hero as he netted a debut hat-trick, while Charles Edmondson continued his fine start to the season by scoring another goal in the 4-3 victory.
Despite the three points which put Gary Nash's men at the summit after two games, it was a stuttering performance from 'Gate who welcomed Polish international Zywiczka and under-21 compatriot Jarek Pulka to the side for the first time.
The Granby side found themselves a goal behind early in the first half after a lacklustre opening devoid of the energy which was a hallmark of their win at Doncaster in week one.
Zywiczka then levelled things from a short corner before an incisive breakaway saw Chapeltown re-take the lead.
This steeled Harrogate into action and they notched twice more before the break, Zywiczka adding his second and Edmondson his first as the home side went into half-time 3-2 up.
The second period brought out an improved performance from Harrogate and they could have been out of sight before Chapeltown levelled matters again from a well-worked short corner.
However, it was new boy Zywiczka who had the final say, netting a low flick past the visiting goalkeeper after a sustained spell of pressure from 'Gate.
Two yellow cards blotted the disciplinary copybook but Nash's men held on, surviving a final short corner routine in the dying seconds to claim the three points.
This Saturday Harrogate travel to Marton Furness (1.30pm push back). The Teesside team were promoted last season and have picked up a creditable win against Lincoln Roses and a victory over Leeds Adel Carnegie.
Saturday September 29th
Harrogate start title tilt with Doncaster demolition
Harrogate 1st XI got their Division 2 (East) North Hockey Men's League campaign off to the best possible start with a 4-2 win over Doncaster at the weekend.
Having finished runners-up to Gateshead last time out, Gary Nash's side were keen to start the campaign well, despite a punctuated pre-season and devoid of a number of key players.
With Graeme Bevington (Berlin Marathon), Richard Maclaverty (injury) and Steve Couture (work) all unavailable, 'Gate welcomed Nick Wilcock into the back four, while Nash made a surprise appearance up front.
And the back four had their work cut out in the first 20 minutes, with Doncaster creating a number of chances. Goalkeeper Rob Stanworth was kept busy as the hosts looked to break on the counter-attack.
Doncaster had a goal disallowed for dangerous play before the visitors took the lead. Russ Bowen pouncing to flick home the rebound after good work by Charles Edmondson.
'Gate took their lead into the half-time break, and buoyed by the late appearance of captain Pete Shipston, started the second half brightly.
Edmondson grabbed his first of the game to put daylight between the sides after a flowing move from back to front. It showcased some excellent hockey from Harrogate, with right-back James Redman providing the assist in the opponents 'D'.
Doncaster had a number of short corners which were well defended by Harrogate, before finding the back of the net with one attempt.
This spurred 'Gate into action and Edmondson added two more goals to complete a hat-trick – one a superb reverse stick finish under pressure from the Doncaster 'keeper.
A late lapse in concentration gifted Doncaster a second from the penalty spot, but that was not enough to take the gloss off a fine 4-2 victory for Harrogate.
Nash's side are expected to have Bevington and Couture available for selection, along with Polish internationals Bart Zywiczka and Jaroslaw Pulka for the visit of Chapeltown this weekend (13.30 push back).
By Rob Stanworth