The fifth weekend of the league fixtures saw the a disappointing set of results with many teams struggling to shake off those half-term and halloween cobwebs.

Men’s 1st XI Bloxwich
A devastating result for the M1s this week as they failed to overcome a physical Bloxwich side against whom they took 6-points against last season. Captain Adam Banks said “The result and performance tarnishes our previous performances earlier in the season. We dropped our standard to that of our opponents who were always going to be feisty and throw in some questionable challenges. It was a disappointing result and it showed on our faces by the end of the match. Frustrations showed but now we reset and get back training on Tuesday for an important fixture against Bromsgrove next week where a win will cement our position as title/promotion challengers”
Result: 0-3
Player of the Match:: P. Harrold

Ladies 1st XI vs Ludlow
A strong game from the L1s saw them take a point away from a well organised Bromsgrove side. Both teams were evenly matched in the first half of the game and were 0-0 going into the break. The home side came out a little bit stronger and managed to break the deadlock with a goal. Old Hales responded well with a goal of their own after a cheeky reverse stick deflection from K. Greaves. The visitors kept pushing but were unable to secure the win.
Result: 1–1; goal from K. Greaves
Player of the Match: J. Impey

Men’s 2nd XI vs Stratford
The M2s had a disastrous day against an experienced and solid Stratford team who definitely did not deserve to be languishing at the bottom of the table. Old Hales battled well for the first 10 minutes until the deadlock was broken by a thunderous penalty corner strike from Stratford. The home side had some nice spells of play but were unable to impose themselves on the game and were punished by every attack that Stratford had. Captain Nick Brindley said “Tough one to swallow today. One we should all go away and think about. We know that today wasn’t good enough, or even close to the level we can play at.”
Result: 2-9 goals from C. Hardy & R. Thompson
Player of the Match: None.

Ladies 2nd XI vs Bromsgrove
A development team opposition gave the L2s the opportunity to call up some of the junior ladies into the squad to get a taste of adult hockey. The experienced core of the Bromsgrove team put the team through their paces resulting in end-to-end hockey, with both teams having opportunities to score. Captain Jess Wilkinson said “Unfortunate for us to lose this week, but an invaluable learning experience, not just for the juniors, but for all of us. R Charlton’s heroic double goal line clearance and A Carter’s escape artist antics were highlights of the game.”
Result: 1–2; goal from M. de Bechi
Player of the Match: A. “Houdini’ Carter

Men’s 3rd XI vs Bournville & Kings Heath
The M3s got their second win of the season with a determined performance against a spirited opposition, containing skilful youngsters and wise old heads. Old Hales started well and opened the scoring through a winding run and shot from M. Oakley. The opposition responded swiftly with two goals and could have had more was in not for a penalty stroke save from P. Woodall. However, it was Old Hales who restored parity with a fortunate goal. Matt Oakley again was the architect, as his jinxing run lead to a defender putting into his own net. Old Hales grabbed what proved to be the winner when another midfielder, this time K. Singh, weaved his way into the D and got his shot off which was saved, only for captain Steve Charlton to be in the right place at the right time to tap in the rebound. The second half was an open affair, with both teams pushing for goals. Hales were indebted to stand-in goalkeeper Woodall who made plenty of saves throughout to deny an equaliser and earn him the man of the match award. Captain Steve Charlton said “Overall, a gritty performance where everyone put a shift in - well done gents!”
Result: 3–2; goals from M. Oakley (2) & S. Charlton
Player of the Match: P. Woodall

Men’s 4th XI vs Bournville & Kings Heath
A very tough away game for the M4s, who were missing talismanic captain James Davies, in which the scoreline certainly wasn't reflective of the effort the lads put in. Stand-in captain JB did his best to inspire the team, but the home side were a little too strong on this occasion. JB was quick to comment post-match “With the right selection when they come to us later in the season, we'll find redemption with ease”. A huge shout out to T Hadley who was voted player of the match after a fantastic debut performance.
Result: 1-6; goal from O. Byard-Jones
Player of the Match: T. Hadley