Hillhead Hockey Club News Articles

Dale or no Dale!

Andy LOVAT — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 07:07:57 +0000

It would be fair to say that AMN Hillhead Mens 1's went into this Arthur McKay Scottish Cup game, against Greaves Clydesdale 1's, with one intention and one intention only, to start getting back to the winning ways they've missed so much in recent times. And whilst there was maybe some angst amongst the players, due to the league season so far, going into this cup fixture - right from the start it didn't show!

And after only about five minutes there was already a feelgood factor about the way Hillhead were playing; everybody was eager for the ball, everybody was making fantastic runs off the ball and into space - the team was driving forward with a winning mentality and looking for those vital goals.

Clydesdale weren't messing about either, and whilst they might have had slightly more possession for certainly the first 20 minutes or so, they couldn't make sure of anything, with three good chances missed. At the end of the day however, Hillhead were solid throughout and super fast on every attacking opportunity.

Graeme Campbell was immense as he drove forward looking for any sensible run made by his colleagues further up. Campbell's speed, and stick skills, are a joy to watch, and although the man can do tricks with a ball that would deceive even the eyes of a well trained hawk, he rarely tries anything fancy. He always keeps it on his strong side and looks to make that immediate telling pass. And he wasn't alone. His ethos of simple, direct hockey, was the important factor throughout the whole team, whether they were defending or attacking.

Kiwi, Craig Paterson, made a very welcome return to the Hillhead ranks. And with 10 minutes left of the first period it was just like old times as he made great space for himself at the top of Clydesdale's circle, collecting the ball from a superb pass from outside the opposition 23, turning on it, and cracking it beyond the helpless keeper! It was a great goal for Hillhead and well deserved, as they just got better and better.

The second half saw an inspired Hillhead take charge of the game against an increasingly beleaguered Clydesdale who started to push up as many men as possible to get back into the game. At times Clydesdale made this tactic pay with some good attacks and a couple of penalty corners. But in truth, they rarely troubled an excellent Hillhead defence and an ever competent Jamie Frail who patted away shots with ease. Throughout the game, Hillhead coach Keith Joss made a number of important and telling, rolling substitutions. When you have the likes of young players such as Ryan Bell, Shane Boyce, Ewan Campbell and others, to rely on, it can be particularly punishing on an opposition that are pushing most of their players high. For Hillhead, coach Joss's tactics were absolutely spot on as AMN Hillhead pushed forward looking for more goals.

With 15 minutes left on the clock, Hillhead's strategy and great attacking hockey, paid off with three penalty corners in a row awarded. Clydesdale were fighting for their cup lives now and kept the first two short corners at bay - but Hillhead made no mistake on the third one, with Graeme Campbell slotting it away superbly! Hillhead, who had been firing on all cylinders throughout the game, seemed to be breathing fire now as they kept on pressing for yet another goal. And that third, match winning goal, came with 8 minutes to go - and what a stormer it was! After yet another aggressive and direct attack down the middle of the park, the ball was laid off into the opposition circle to the right of a fast outcoming keeper - and from what seemed like nowhere, Andrew Hilton lunged at the ball in front of him - sliding a good 5 metres - to whack the ball beyond the keeper! Goal 3 for Hillhead - a well deserved third goal that was to sum up Hillhead's overall attitude and fantastic game play throughout the team and the 70 minutes played.

As the final whistle sounded, taking AMN Hillhead through to the next round, it was smiles all round for a team that gave 110% in every department. Every player put in a solid shift, with two players in particular giving the opposition lots of trouble. As mentioned, Graeme Campbell was superb going forward and at times unstoppable. When a new Scotland coach is eventually appointed, he should get himself along and watch this man in action. And Ireland should be equally proud of Andy Maclaine! Maclaine was efficient in all aspects of his game; he was brilliant going forward, and yet at the same time marked Clydesdale's best player out of the game. Man of the Match could have gone to just about anyone, but Andy Maclaine just edges it, for an all round great performance.

Clydesdale gave it everything in this good spirited game. All credit has to be given to them for pushing up in numbers - especially in the second half - in their endeavour to win this cup game, but today wasn't their day against a superior Hillhead team.

For AMN Hillhead coach, Keith Joss, and his team, all the hard work was well worth it as everything seemed to naturally fall into place as they head into the last eight of the Arthur McKay Scottish Cup.

FINAL SCORE: AMN Hillhead 3 Greaves Clydesdale 0.

Alan Meikle celebrates as goal 2 goes in for Hillhead courtesy of Graeme Campbell.

Celebration all round after Graeme Campbell's penalty corner.

Clydesdale's keeper looks on helplessly as goal 3, scored by Andrew Hilton, hits the back board.

As goalscorer Andrew Hilton picks himself up, Ewan Campbell and Man of the Match, Andy Maclaine, celebrate.

Plenty of positives in face of defeat

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 14:52:10 +0000

After a morale boosting win against city rivals Clydesdale in the Scottish Cup, Hillhead faced the ominous task of trying to beat free scoring and undefeated Scottish Champions Kelburne at Bellahouston. In the previous league encounter, Hillhead matched Kelburne for large periods of the match, but rued missed chances, finally succumbing 4-1.

Hillhead were without strikers Iain Mathie (inj), Graeme Campbell (inj) and Andrew Duke (work) for this tricky encounter.

Despite a pre match warning/preminition Hillhead conceded within 30 seconds of the start with fortune teller Alan Meikle asleep in possession. Hillhead responded well to this early setback weathering the elements and a Kelburne storm in the first 15 minutes. In a half which saw Hillhead grow with confidence chances fell to both teams, with Kelburne more astute in front of goal with two scrappy goals giving them a three nil halftime lead. Probably not a fair reflection on the chances created.

Halftime Kelburne 3 - 0 Hillhead

The second half presented Hillhead with some relief from the headwind they faced in the first preiod. Hillhead began the second half well and seemed more confident in all aspects of their play thanks to an outstanding rearguard. Despite their improved play the lethal Kelburne scored two well taken goals before Hillhead finally got the goal they so richly deserved, courtesy of the mercurial Craig Paterson. This concession seemed to anger Kelburne as they sprang into life with two late goals, leaving the scoreline as a poor reflection on the what was a competitive match. Kelburne were even kind enough to compliment the Hillhead squad on their efforts and play. Not bad for a team struggling in the relegation zone and surely must give players hope for an improved second half.

Full time Kelburne 7 - 1 Hillhead

Mixed Fortunes for Hillhead's Indoor Sides

Alan MEIKLE — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:57:05 +0000

National League Two (Forthbank)

Hillhead 5 - 6 Falkirk

Hillhead 1 - 1 Harris

Hillhead 6 - 4 Menzieshill II

Squad; Andrew Hilton, Iain Hilton, Munro Stewart, Cameron Mowat, Jamie Frail, James Ross, Matt McIntyre, Stuart McGregor

West District One (Bellahouston Academy)

Hillhead Hornets 8 - 5 Greenock 'A'

Scorers: Michael Sherry (4), Andy Liddel (1), Ian Luke (1), Keith Joss (1), Gregor Campbell (1)

Squad: Michael Sherry, Alan Meikle, Andy Liddel, Keith Joss, Gregor Campbell, Lewis Campbell, Ian Luke

Hillhead Hoops 1 - 5 Greenock 'A'

Squad: Ross Wilson, Nick Downes, Grant Thomson, James Ross, James Prowse, Jamie Westwood, Stuart Caldow

Men's cup draws

Ron MEIKLE — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:36:50 +0000

Men's Arthur Mackay Scottish Cup, quarter final, Sunday 18th March: AMN Hillhead 1s v Grange

Men's Activcity District Cup, last 16, Sunday 4th March: AMN Hillhead 2s v Stirling University

Men's Activcity Reserve Cup, last 16, Sunday 4th March: Clydesdale 4s v AMN Hillhead 3s

Men's Activcity Reserve Plate, last 16, Sunday 4th March: AMN Hillhead 4s v Kelburne 4s

AMN Hillhead 5s ... bye

Kelburne 3s v AMN Hillhead 7s

Decent weekend for Hillhead's Indoor sides

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:48:42 +0000

National League Division Two:

Hillhead 7 - 2 Watsonians

Scorers: Keith Joss (3) James Ross (3)

Hillhead 2 - 2 Gordonians

Scorers: Keith Joss, Andrew Hilton

Squad: Keith Joss, Andrew Hilton, Iain Hilton, Cameron Mowat, Matthew McIntyre, James Ross, Stuart McGregor and Jamie Frail.

West District Division One:

Hillhead Hoops 7 - 9 Clydesdale

Scorers: Scott Bissell (3), James Aitken (2), James Prowse and Michael Sherry

Hillhead Hornets 9 - 5 Rottenrow

Scorers: Paul Crooks (4) Wullie McKechnie (1), Michael Sherry (2), Alan Meikle (2)

Hillhead Indoor teams beat the weather

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:06:36 +0000

National League Division Two (Mens) - Forthbank

Hillhead 2 - 3 Inverleith II

Hillhead 9 - 3 Stepps

West District Division One (Bellahouston Academy)

Hillhead 5 - 4 Uddingston

Hillhead Boys Squads back in training

Alan MEIKLE — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:16:01 +0000

Hillhead Junior Men Training:

WHEN?: Friday 6th January 2012

WHERE?: G.H.K. (Glasgow High School)

WHO?: All male players under 18

WHAT?: Skill development, game related drills, fitness work and conditioned games

WHY?: To ready players for up and coming matches and continue their hockey growth

All players must bring a change of clothes (preferably water proof), plenty of fluids and some light snacks.

£5 contribution towards pitch hier if possible

Hillhead Under 18s Plate Schedule

Alan MEIKLE — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:02:30 +0000

Teams competing in first round are Dundee Wanderers, Kelburne, Perthshire and Western Hillhead given a BYE into second round Classification Pool – 2nd Round
Suggested Play By Dates (ALL matches to be concluded by 6th May 2012)
15 Apr 2012	Hillhead	v	2nd place team from R1
28 Apr 2012	2nd place team from R1	v	1st place team from R1
06 May 2012	1st place team from R1	v	Hillhead

The dates noted above are suggested “play-by” dates. The competing teams may arrange a date to play their matches which suits both parties, as long as all games are played by the 6th May 2012. Any matches which have not been played by this date will be declared void.

Points shall be awarded as follows:- 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw and 0 points for a loss.

In the event of a tie on points at the conclusion of the “round robin” classification matches, the section shall be decided by (a) goal difference (b) goals scored (c) better head to head (d) number of matches won.

The top two teams from the 2nd Round of Classification Pool matches will progress to the U18 Scottish Plate Final, which will be played at Peffermill on Sunday 20th May.

Sunday 20 May 2012 (Peffermill, Edinburgh) Final

Olympic Hockey Collector's Coins up for grabs

Alan MEIKLE — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:12:05 +0000

The 50p sports Collection

In January 2009 the Royal Mint launched its biggest ever competition, inviting the British public to design a series of new 50p coins. Thousands of excellent designs were received from all over the UK, featuring all 29 sports of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The best designs were selected and now they’ve been made into coins for you to collect as lasting mementoes of London 2012.

Here's where the Fun begins! Be part of the The London 2012 sports collection coin with us.Each design has been carefully reproduced, minted and packaged into a vibrant display of colour, which reflects the energy and excitement which surrounds the Games.

http://www.royalmint.com/olympicgames

Hillhead Junior Men showing great maturity and promise

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:21:48 +0000

On Friday, Hillhead Hockey took advantage of the school holidays and some atypical Scottish weather, holding a coaching session for their male juniors.

Although the planning was a bit last minute, the coaches were delighted by a turn out of 19 boys from as far afield as Helensburgh and Lenzie and with boys as young as 11 and as old as 17. This good turn out not only allowed newer additions to the squads to find their feet but it also allowed the coaches to talent i.d. and work on some basic principles of play.

The plan for the future is to run more regular age specific coaching for the youngsters, possibly during Tuesday night training.

Thanks to Ewan Campbell, Matthew McIntyre. Colin McClure and Andy Lovat for their support on the day.

Training restarts

Ron MEIKLE — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:23:10 +0000

West District training is back as the leagues recommence on Saturday.

Training is at 8pm on Tuesday 10th January at Jordanhill School.

NL and RL training begins again next Tuesday (17th Jan), 7pm.

Anchor hold strong to hold off fighting Hillhead

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 14:22:39 +0000

On a relatively mild early January afternoon, undefeated league leaders Hillhead and supporters Alan Meikle and crutch bound Graeme Campbell made the short journey along the M8 to face title rivals Anchor in an eagerly anticipated encounter. Hillhead were missing playmaker Johnny Horn (work) and Ally Graves for this tricky and important away fixture.

The match started with Hillhead on the top from the first whistle, with their first meaningful attack resulting in the award of a penalty corner, which Hillhead failed to capitalize on. The next ten minutes saw Hillhead continue to build upon their good form in 2011 with lively striker Jamie Gillies shooting wide past both posts after good wing play by the same player. It was not until the eleventh minute of the match that Anchor finally entered the Hillhead D. Buoyed by this significant momentum shift Anchor were visibly lifted having weathered the early Hillhead storm. A minute later Anchor had fashioned their first strike on goal, which skipped feet past the Hillhead goal. For the first time in the half play was very much in the balance. Despite Anchor having better possession than previously, Hillhead squandered a handful of good chances, with Wullie McKechnie disappointed not to tap in at the back post and Jamie Gillies failing to find that all important pass having rounded the Anchor keeper. With Anchor holding firm during turbulent times, they then piled the pressure on Hillhead forcing Gerry McGuinness into a couple of compotent saves.

Halftime Anchor 0 - 0 Hillhead

With Hillhead having played a fairly cautious first half despite having the best of it, they would have to be more positive in the second period to break down a stubborn Anchor defence. Defensive stalwart and club President Dave McKinney predicted a narrow 1 nil Hillhead win as he took to the pitch for the second 35 minutes. The first ten minutes of the half were all about the home team, with wave after wave of attack, proving Hillhead all sorts of problems. After a couple of penalty corners and near misses, Hillhead finally caved in with Anchor taking a deserved lead as they flicked the ball low past a part blinded Hillhead keeper. Having worked so hard to establish a league Anchor then hit the self destruct button with their impressive young winger green carded for back chat, followed soon after by a yellow card after a cynical professional foul by Anchor’s central defender, which prevented Hillhead from scoring a straight forward equalizer. Despite being down to ten men Anchor continued to be a threat due in part to their higher workrate. Six minutes after their first yellow card, Anchor made their task harder once again with a second yellow card. Hillhead dumbfounded by this needless collapse took full advantage with silky striker Mike McLelland linking neatly with Wullie McKechnie to finally unlock the resolute Anchor defence. A great solo run by Jamie Gillies followed from the next passage of play only to be thwarted by a desperate last ditch tackle just as he was about to pull the trigger. Soaking up the Hillhead pressure Anchor countered at pace to once more take the lead in what was now an engrossing encounter, memorable for its competitiveness rather than the hockey on show. Refusing to give up Hillhead at last stepped their game up pushing their midfield higher up the field in search of an equalizer. This renewed positivity was to pay dividends with constant threat Wullie McKechnie finishing well from a tight angle. With all the goals in the game coming the second half and Hillhead behind twice and draw would have been a good result. However, there was to be a final twist as Anchor scored a deserved winner after some slick interplay set up their centre mid to score a winner.

Fulltime Anchor 3 - 2 Hillhead

A frustrating match in which Hillhead failed to capitalise on early chances which would have changed the shape of the match. An engrossing second half which had everything with goals, cards and gamesmanship galore. Anchor’s greater desire and workrate were just too much for a Hillhead team which on the day were a credit to the club both for their fight till the final whistle and their graceful acceptance of defeat.

Hillhead 3's celebrate one of their two goals! (Photography by Andy Lovat)

Hillhead's young and not so young pretenders earn fighting draw

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 14:45:09 +0000

Hillhead welcomed back former coach and player Alan Shirley for what would be his third playing spell at the club. This would prove to be a fantastic acquistion for Hillhead's development squad along with wise heads such as Vic Brown, Robin Gillies and John Candlin to name but a few. Marshalled seamlessly by captain and playmaker Robert Frame Hillhead took to the field with a handful of 12 year olds and the rest of the team under 15. Their opposition had a couple of younger players, but on the whole were a robust and experienced outfit.

Despite periods of good play from both teams, Hillhead's lightweight forwards struggled physically to impose themselves on their adult counterparts depsite some lovely flowing moves. Uddingston capitalised upon Hillhead's frugality in front of goal taking a goal lead early in the second half. The Hillhead youngsters showed terrific maturity and stole back into the game with John Candlin turning back the years, as he deflected a fiercely struck cross low past the hapless Uddingston keeper. Game on. As is so often the case, the next goal would arrive five minutes after Hillhead's equaliser, with a rampant Hillhead taking a surprise lead from the stick of Alan Shirley, albeit not the cleanest strike from the powerful hitter. Credit to Uddingston as they fought back in the closing ten minutes and grabbed a deserved equaliser to settle the match at 2-2.

Another fantastic performance by a very young Hillhead development side, who continue to develop and display all the attributes Hillhead hope for in their players.

Winning Weekend for Hillhead's Indoor Teams

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 20:19:08 +0000

National Indoor League Division Two:

Hillhead 4 - 2 Inverleith II

Hillhead 8 - 6 Stepps

West District Division One:

Hillhead Hoops 8 - 3 Stepps

Scorers: Michael Sherry (5), James Prowse, Stuart Caldow, Jamie Westwood

Hillhead Hornets 7 - 5 Clydesdale

Scorers: Fraser Ward (4), William McKechnie, Keith Joss, Andrew Duke

Fraser Ward celebrates his four goals! (Photography by Andy Lovat)

Hillhead Youngster enjoys the 'Ultimate Sports Day'

Alan MEIKLE — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:19:04 +0000

Dumbarton based Hillhead player Fraser Ward was selected after a thorough selection process to represent Scotland in a children's T.V. program entitled the 'Ultimate Sports Day'. The program is to be aired on CBBC, from Saturday at 9am and will run for a further ten weeks. Tune in to see how young Fraser fairs against athletes from others sports from across the United Kingdom.

"Boy of the moment" - Hillhead hockey player and TV star, Fraser Ward. (Photo by Andy Lovat)

Hillhead maintain 100% record to seal semi final place

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 15:26:36 +0000

Hillhead Hornets 9 - 6 Anchor

Scorers: William McKechnie (3), Jamie McTaggart (2), Keith Joss (2), Alan Meikle and Gregor Campbell

Hillhead Hoops 2 - 9 Western

Reid hat trick seals Hillhead Final spot

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:13:24 +0000

Having won all of their league matches, Hillhead were number one seeds for their pool and faced the runners up in pool B Western Wildcats in a keenly anticipated semi final at Bellahouston.

Hillhead were missing goal scorer Fraser Ward (ill) but welcomed back Callum McLeod who had been missing due to exams and welcomed Steven Frame and John Reid into the squad for the first time this season. Grant McMillan and Jamie McTaggart were Hillhead's other youth representatives. Adults on the day were Keith Joss, Alan Meikle, William McKechnie, Lewis and Gregor Campbell.

A confident start saw Hillhead establish a two goal lead halfway through the first half. Taking their foot of the gas Hillhead allowed Western back into the match as they fired in two quick goals in as many minutes to level the score at halftime.

Halftime Hillhead 2 - 2 Western

The second half was when the match really came to life with Hillhead restoring their lead from the passback after a tremendous passing move. This really spurred Western on as they came back hard and strong. Goals were exchanged before Hillhead finally pulled clear towards the end thanks to a John Reid hat trick and a brace for Steven Frame.

Final Score Hillhead 6 - 4 Western

Next week sees Hillhead Hornets playing Greenock in the West District.

In Hillhead Hoops classification match they came out 6-3 winners against Anchor, thanks to goals from Michael Sherry (3) and Scott Bissell (3).

McGregor's Indoor boys do Hillhead proud!

Andy LOVAT — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:21:12 +0000

Okay, no promotion back up to Division 1 - although it was close! But Hillhead National 2 indoor side have had a great season that came to it's conclusion on Sunday, February 6th, with some fantastic hockey played by this tight knit, spirited group of players.

And the top credit has to go to experienced outdoor and indoor captain, Stuart McGregor, who pulled everything together with his usual superb organisational skills, to produce a happy team of various ages that gelled brilliantly over a number of weeks and produced some great hockey.

(Photography by Andy Lovat)

Captain, Stuart McGregor (middle), looks on as his team complete an excellent campaign.

Hillhead 1's Indoor team 2011/2012.

Top row - left to right; Cameron Mowat, Munro Stewart, James Ross, Matt McIntyre, Stuart McGregor (C), Jonny Horn, Ewan Campbell, Wei Adams.

Bottom row - left to right; Andrew Hilton, Jamie Frail, Iain Hilton.

10 Dec 2011	10:00	Home	Watsonians	Win 7 - 2
10 Dec 2011	14:25	Away	AAM Gordonians	Draw 2 - 2
17 Dec 2011	12:45	Away	Inverleith 2	Loss 2 - 3
17 Dec 2011	16:25	Home	Stepps	Win 9 - 3
14 Jan 2012	10:55	Away	Watsonians	Win 3 - 2
14 Jan 2012	14:35	Home	AAM Gordonians	Win 5 - 1
21 Jan 2012	12:30	Home	Inverleith 2	Win 4 - 2
21 Jan 2012	16:40	Away	Stepps	Win 8 - 6
4 Feb 2012	12:30	Away	Falkirk GHG	-
4 Feb 2012	15:00	Away	Harris Academy FP	-
4 Feb 2012	17:30	Home	Grove Menzieshill 2

Hillhead renew rivalry with Clydesdale

Alan MEIKLE — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:38:31 +0000

Hillhead Under 16s begin their regional qualifiers against much fancied Clydesdale Under 16s. In a pool alongside Kelburne and Clydesdale, Hillhead could not have a tougher task to progress by winning their group.

The match is on Saturday 11th February, 9.30a.m. pushback at GHK. Support would be welcome and encouraged.

Hillhead fightback falls short against Deadly Dale

Alan MEIKLE — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:41:55 +0000

In their opening encounter of this year's National League, Hillhead faced much fancied rivals Clydesdale at G.H.K on a cold and dull morning.

The hockey from the outset lit up the morning with Clydesdale totally dominant in the opening exchanges, with flowing hockey causing Hillhead all sorts of problems. Hillhead welcoming five new players to their squad took time to settle. Clydesdale took full advantage of this early disharmony as they took a deserved lead after confusion in the Hillhead defence left keeper Westwood with no chance. Hillhead settled into the game after this early setback and gradually began to compete more with their impressive opponents. They were, however, to face a setback late in the half with Clydesdale adding a second goal after a beautiful passing move.

Halftime HIllhead 0 - 2 Clydesdale

Hillhead took to the field in the second half looking for the more of the good attitude and effort applied in a difficult first half. As it happened, they gave every ounce of energy they had creating ten times as many chances in the second half as they did in the first. Like a side transformed, they grew with confidence and started linking up more successfully than in the first half. Chances came and went, until late in the match with John Reid sealing a good performance with a penalty corner strike. Six minutes to go, game on! Hillhead with nothing to lose pushed for the win, with four players posted high in search an equaliser. Unfortunately this allowed Clydesdale to counter attack and score a third and final goal, sealing the three points in an enthralling encounter. No points, but plenty of positives for a squad of players that had never met let alone played together.

Thanks to Ronnie Meikle for umpiring and all the support.

Fulltime Hillhead 1 - 3 Clydesdale

Hillhead Youngsters outgunned by Greenock

Alan MEIKLE — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:43:00 +0000

Having won all four of their group matches against Anchor, Greenock 'A', Uddingston and Rpttenrow and a semi final against Western Wildcats, Hillhead now face the same Greenock side they had faced beaten earlier in the season.

Hillhead were without experienced adults Keith Joss(coaching) and Alan Meikle(family commitments) for the final. In their place was the stalwart and indoor defensive talisman Dougie Graham. The only other "adults" in the squad were William McKechnie, Lewis and Gregor Campbell. The rest of the squad consisted of Grant McMillan (14), Jamie McTaggart (14), Steven Frame (15), Fraser Ward (14), Callum McLeod (16), John Reid (15).

Despite their best efforts Hillhead were well beaten by an older and more experienced Greenock side. Captain William McKechnie, however, praised the performance of the youngsters in testing circumstances.

Final Score Hillhead 1 - 7 Greenock

Disappointed at this loss the boys have a chance to put things right this weekend in the West District Cup.

Hillhead lift West District Indoor Cup

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 17:15:41 +0000

With Hillhead Hoops eliminated in the first round by Clydesdale, in a tightly contested 5-3 defeat, Hillhead's hopes rested with their other side. Getting a bye to the semis, Hillhead faced Stepps in the semi final. Stepps began the match a player short, so Hillhead player Michael Sherry stepped in to make the teams even. In a fairly uneventful and unispiring match albeit a decent standard Hillhead took an early lead through John Reid, only for Hillhead's own Michael Sherry to fire in an equaliser. The second half was more ot the same with Hillhead re establishing their lead only for Stepps to equalise to take the tie to penalties, despite Hillhead dominating the match. To put it bluntly, the penalties were awful with only two converted out of the six takers. This took the tie to sudden death, whereupon Hillhead finally sealed the victory.

FINAL

The final was keenly contested but ultimately one sided affair with Hillhead taking advantage of a tired Clydesdale side to seal a convincing and satisfying 9-4, with Hillhead's under 16s playing large spells on the match unassisted by adult support. Goals in the final were for Fraser Ward (4), Steven Frame (2), John Reid (2) and Andrew Hilton (1)

Hillhead Hornets 9 - 4 Clydesdale

Hillhead West District 1's (Photography by Andy Lovat)

Top row (left to right); Alan Meikle, Callum MacLeod, John Reid, Jamie McTaggart, Iain Hilton, Jamie Frail, Andrew Hilton, Graeme Campbell.

Bottom row (left to right); Fraser Ward, Rory Kerr, Stephen Frame.

Hillhead take shine off CALA's latest development

Alan MEIKLE — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:18:25 +0000

After a very disappointing first half to the season, when despite some good performances Hillhead failed to seal some deserved victories. This indifferent start left them seven points adrift of third from bottom CALA going into saturday's match, and only three points clear of automatic relegation.

As if the loss of so many players at the start of the year was not testing enough, Hillhead were blighted by a mini injury crisis with influential players Wei Adams (Hip) and Graeme Campbell (Foot) failing late fitness tests. Steve Pollock was also carrying an injury but braved the pain to make the starting line up. Called up to cover the injuries were defensive specialist Douglas Graham and forward nuisance Johnny Horne.

The match began at a reasonable pace with neither team particularly adventurous in their endeavour. The first goal may have gone either way based on the opening exchanges, however, it was Hillhead that gained the impetus with Ulsterman Ryan Bell finishing well on his reverse.

Halftime: CALA 0 - 1 Hillhead

The second half started with more intent signalled by CALA than in the previous 35 minutes. There more positive start rocked Hillhead, as they looked increasingly unsettled and nervous. This dodgy restart proved costly as CALA equalised at a penalty corner. With plenty of time on the clock, however, there was no need to press the panic button. Infact Hillhead relaxed and began to play some of their best attacking hockey in years, carving CALA open with almost every adventure forward. This dominance was rewarded with a second goal with the tireless Andrew MacLaine finishing off neatly after a goal mouth melee. Having regained the lead the next passage of play was to be a massive momentum swinger. CALA in search of a quick equaliser won a penatly corner. A low drag flick was magnificently saved by stand out defender Iain Hilton on the line. Rather than dwelling on this goal saving intervention, Hillhead's defence caught CALA off guard by taking a quick hit out. 20 seconds and 5 passes later Alan Meikle had deflected a pin point pass from winger Cameron Mowat past the hapless CALA keeper. A two goal lead comforting but not enough of a lead to setlle on. Hillhead did what they do best and continued to push for goals, only to be thwarted by some last ditch tackles by a now frantic opposition defence. Despite having little possession in the second half CALA got a goal out of nothing with the mercurial Scott Sutherland scoring from an impossible angle to give Hillhead "squeaky bums" for the closing minutes. Thankfully Hillhead got the victory their efforts deserved as CALA squandered a last minute penalty corner. A terrific gutsy performance with some awesome attacking hockey and physical defence.

Fulltime CALA 2 - 3 Hillhead

Next week sees Hillhead host ex players Tom Kemsley, Callum Duke and David Forrester's Edinburgh University. 2.25pm pushback at Jordanhill