'˜Gate Men rediscover their mojo in Gateshead success

Ben Pimley was on target for Harrgate Men in their victory over Gateshead. Picture: Caught Light Photography

Harrogate Hockey Club's Men's first team captain Will Rogers is looking for his side to sign off the season in style after rediscovering their mojo in a 6-3 win over Gateshead

First-half goals from Ben Pimley, Harry Henderson and debutant Olly Jordan gave the Granby-based club a 3-1 half-time lead in Saturday’s North Division One clash.

And despite an early riposte in the second period by Gateshead, a Julian Tarres penalty flick put the hosts back in control.

Two efforts from Charles Edmondson – one an unstoppable thunderbolt from a narrow angle at the top of the ‘D’ – then put a gloss on the scoreline and helped secure Harrogate’s first win in four games.

The victory means that Rogers’ men have lost just once in the league at home this season and keeps them on track for a third place finish with this weekend’s final match away to eighth-placed Chapeltown (1.30pm).

“We’ve had a great season but having not won for a few weeks, there was a bit of pressure on the lads,” Rogers said.

“This win means we’ve only dropped nine points at home all season, which is an impressive feat.

“Even more impressive is the number of local lads who have featured during this campaign, most of whom aren’t even in sixth form yet.

“Olly Jordan didn’t look out of place on Saturday and the club’s conveyor belt of producing promising youngsters will really benefit us next season.

“An away win on Saturday would cement third spot and if we control the game like we did against Gateshead, I’m confident of a good victory.”