Match Report Hockey: EHL Conference West (Men)
Fixture: Cardiff & UWIC v Team Bath Buccaneers
Date: Sunday 26 February 2012
Score: Cardiff & UWIC 0-2 TBB
Venue: Welsh Institute of Sport, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff
Team Bath Buccaneers moved to within one victory of claiming the West Conference title on Sunday, winning 2-0 at Cardiff + UWIC.
Jody Paul’s side got off to a dream start when Phil Ball followed up his own initial effort, flicking past Ben Dudley in the Cardiff goal in the second minute.
The goal sparked the home side into life and Buccs had to work hard to keep Cardiff at bay.
On the stroke of half time the Welsh side won a penalty stroke when Buccs keeper James Bailey upended a Cardiff forward.
Thankfully for Buccs Bailey made amends for his foul with a stunning save to ensure his side remained in front at the break.
As Cardiff looked for an equaliser Buccs were able to expose the gaps they left at the back.
In the 54th minute Shaun Matthews fed Tim Davenport who found a Cardiff foot in the circle to give Buccs their first penalty corner of the half. Davenport flicked high past Dudley to put Buccs two goals to the good and to effectively end any Cardiff hopes of winning the match.
Buccs defended resolutely in the closing stages to deny the home side any chance of getting back into the game and in doing so picked up their twelfth win in a row.
Buccs now go into Sunday’s home clash with Fareham knowing that another three points will see them finish top of the division and will ensure they qualify for the promotion play-offs.
