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Roller Hockey News 2001-2002 Season
Terry Barton
Roller skating champion Terry Barton trained to be a winner at Herne Bay United and is now passing on his secret to the next generation. Terry, 64, started skating in the late 40s shortly after his family returned to the Bay from Portsmouth where his father, a naval officer, had been posted. Inspired by older brother Peter, he joined United at a time when the team's Herne Bay Pier home was the centre of town social life.
Terry said: "Skating then was the main social event in Herne Bay. It was packed out every week with long queues to get in. There was individual skating, dancing for those who could manage it, fast skating, and every Saturday night there was a roller hockey match or two that would attract a big crowd."
He and his brother specialised in artistic skating, steadily working their way up the rankings to perform regularly in major competitions, often competing against each other. Terry said: "Peter is seven years older than me, so I was always the novice at the time." But after a lot of hard work, training eight hours a week on top of the usual public open sessions and fortnightly visits to his professional coach in Great Yarmouth, success soon came Terry's way. Together with partner Margaret Newman, he won the Pairs Dance Skating category at the Welsh Open Championships in 1962. Margaret has since set up her own artistic skating club in the Bay, called Pegasus, and Peter and his skating-partner wife moved to Canada to stat a professional dancing school.
Apart from two years of national service in the Army, Terry has rarely left the United club since he joined aged 11. But his focus shifted from artistic skating to speed skating and then to roller hockey after marrying wife Lois, a former Kings Road School classmate. The couple have lived just a few doors down from Terry's childhood home since 1965.
He now coaches United's senior roller hockey team, helping them move up to the National First Division and leading them to a series of major victories. They have won the National Premier League every season, bar one, since 1992/93 - they refused to enter one year for political reasons - and they have taken home the National Senior Cup four times, in 1996, 2000, 2001 and 2002. Terry said: "The secrets of our success are training players from a very young age and having a good team spirit. We have a lot of long-standing local players, youngsters really want to stay with the club because it's a nice place to be. Being successful also makes people want to join. In terms of game strategy, we are able to use our skating strengths to mark strongly man on man."
The team enters one European tournament each year, but competition from professional Spanish and Portuguese teams is tough. Terry said: "Sport in those countries is different. Unlike us, they play roller hockey at school. They start from a very early age and they have well-paid, professional teams. It is hard for us to compete, but we did manage to get into the European championships in 1999."
Retirement from his engineering career last year has given Terry the chance to devote more time to the club and to looking after the family - activities that often overlap. Terry's four sons all play roller hockey and the eldest of his seven grandchildren has just taken up the game. Sons Nicholas, 34, and Daniel, 30, regularly represent United's senior team and were both England team players until last season.
Posted: 8 August 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Times
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NRHA Role
Herne Bay United's Aileen Barker was elected as general secretary of the national Roller Hockey Association at their annual meeting on Sunday at Peterborough. Last year she relinquished her role as Herne Bay United's hockey secretary to Debbie Pughe but remained on the committee and assisted Debbie by being senior team co-ordinator. Mrs Barker said: "I hope my 20-plus years working within the sport for such a club as Herne Bay United will give me the background necessary to do a good job nationally. Our sport is a struggling minority, one which has to grow in membership with improved opportunity for competition. The new shape executive committee is determined to work to this end for all its members. It is a real challenge but we are all optimistic about what can be achieved."
At the United club awards the manager of the senior team, Terry Barton, was presented with a gift by the players in recognition of his work with them over the last 15 years, and the successes many of them have enjoyed. Terry is retiring as manager of the team but will continue as a coach in the club of which he has been a member for 51 years.
HBU club awards 2001/02: Best first season player - Kai Dillon; Most improved player - Ben Jackson; Top scorer (senior team) - Simon Hosking; HBU Player of the Year - Philip McVey
Posted: 18 July 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Junior Cup: Herne Bay United 1 - 6 Letchworth (Played: Saturday 29 June)
United's weakened under 20 side lost the junior cup final 6 - 1 to a Letchworth team packed with England internationals. Without the injured Joe Fidock, ill Sam Jackson and working Byron Davis and Stuart Almond, only regular juniors Ben Jackson and goalkeepers Paul Nelson and David Beeson were available. Under 17s Stavros Zacharia and Arran Bowyer, and under 15s Charlie Pughe and Joe King were drafted in, but they were 3 - 0 down at half-time and had only Ben Jackson's goal as consolation.
Manager Ron Barker said they had created as many chances as Letchworth, but lacked experience. He added: "For the youngsters to perform like this was very encouraging. The individual performances were tremendous."
Posted: 4 July 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Senior Cup: Herne Bay United 6 - 5 Middlesbrough (Played: Saturday 29 June)
They needed a two-hour battle, extra time and a penalty shoot-out, but Herne Bay Untied retained the National Senior Cup in a thrilling final against Middlesbrough on Saturday. And it was the youngest player, Ben Jackson, who had already played in the under 20 final, who clinched victory with the decisive penalty after a 5 - 5 draw at Peterborough.
Already Premier League champions, United found that third-placed Middlesbrough had flown in Spanish star Roger Capella especially for the match. In contrast, United were without Neil Austin, due to work commitments, while Jackson, carrying an injury from the junior final, was one of only two substitutes. However, Simon Hosking gave United a flying start, when 30 seconds into the game he dribbled through and forced the ball into the net. The game settled down to attack and counter attack before Middlesbrough had a lucky break when a high ball rebounded off the back wall to an unmarked forward who levelled the score. United then went 2 - 1 down when Middlesbrough, who are used to playing on a similar-sized rink, pushed the Herne Bay defence back and John Jones drilled in a shot that gave goalkeeper Dan Barton no chance. The pacy Brendan Barker levelled almost immediately and Dan Barton was then called upon to make a penalty save but Middlesbrough did score again to lead 3 - 2 at the interval.
Throughout the second half many team changes were necessary due to fatigue, disciplinary cards and injuries. The exciting end to end play continued with captain Phil McVey and Nick Barton working hard in defence and linking with the forwards in attack and Kurt Holmes blasting in shots whenever the opportunity arose. It was youngster Jackson who finished off a superb passing move to level the score, before Hosking gave them the lead with 10 minutes remaining. Middlesbrough fought back and Rutland levelled the score again at 4 - 4. A clash with the goalkeeper left Hosking with a twisted ankle and out of the game, but United thought they had won with three minutes to go when Phil McVey put them back in front. However, 30 seconds from the final whistle Rutland reached out to intercept the ball and make it 5 - 5.
In an electric atmosphere, there was no further score in extra time, and the penalty shoot-out seemed to be heading for sudden death after Barker and McVey failed. However Jackson calmly picked his spot to score and complete a second successive double in dramatic style.
Posted: 4 July 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Cup
Herne Bay United's senior team go in search of more glory on Saturday when they meet Middlesbrough in the final of the National Knock-Out Cup at Peterborough. United, who have already retained their national title, will be without Neil Austin and face a tough task against a side who have already beaten them in the league and who boast several Spanish imports.
United's juniors will also be in action at Peterborough, facing Letchworth in the under 20 final.
Posted: 27 June 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: Herne Bay United Z 14 - 4 Herne United (Played: Saturday 22 June)
Herne Bay United Z clinched the Kent Premier League title on Saturday with a convincing 14 - 4 victory over Herne United. The contest began with a glut of goals, Herne's opener after just 40 seconds being followed by four United goals. Herne's Goulbourne brothers, Paul and George, brought their team back into the contest with three goals but by half time United had edged ahead 6 - 4.
The second half produced some fast, physical and determined play and although United scored eight times without reply, keeper Paul Nelson made several fine saves. Kurt Holmes finished as United's leading marksman with five goals while Ben Jackson scored four. The Z team headed the table from Herne Bay United Y, with Herne in third, followed by HBU X, Farnham and Herne Bay.
Herne Bay United Z: Paul Nelson, Brendan Barker (2), Kurt Holmes (5), Dendy Hudson (1), Ben Jackson (4), Nick Espejo (2)
Herne United: Steve Brand, Chris Johnson (1), Paul Goulbourne (1), George Goulbourne (2), Robert Singleton, Scott Parker, Sean Spinks
Posted 27 June 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Herne Bay United 17 - 2 Grimsby (Played: Saturday 15 June)
Herne Bay United completed the first leg of a possible double on Saturday when they hammered Grimsby 17 - 2 to retain the National Senior League championship. With the exception of 1999, when they did not compete, United have won the national title every year since 1993 and will be hoping to add the knock-Out Cup when they face Middlesbrough at Peterborough on June 29.
Grimsby went into Saturday's match in confident mood after victories over Manchester and Middlesbrough, but they were not prepared for the speed of United's movement and passing or their individual flair. Within four minutes Simon Hosking had completed a hat-trick, and Nick Barton and Neil Austin both then found the net to make it 5 - 0. A shellshocked Grimsby tried to fight back but first half keeper Dan Barton was equal to their efforts.
United finished the first half with a four-goal burst and continued the second half in the same vein, with Brendan Barker striking twice to add to his two earlier efforts. Grimsby's efforts were rewarded midway through the half with two well-earned goals but six goals in the final 10 minutes from United completed a resounding win. Hosking finished with seven goals, Barker with four and Nick Barton with three. Austin hit two with Kurt Holmes netting the other.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Nick Barton, Brendan Barker, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Nick Espejo, Kurt Holmes, David Garlick
Final league position: 1 Herne Bay United, 2 Maidstone, 3 Middlesbrough, 4 Grimsby, 5 Letchworth, 6 Manchester, 7 Halifax, 8 Sheffield
The final match in the Kent County Roller Hockey Association Premier League takes place on Saturday when HBU Z meet Herne United. There is also an under 15 contest between HBU and Herne. The action gets under way at 7.30pm.
Posted: 20 June 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent League: Herne Bay United Y 7 - 6 Herne Bay United Z
Hopes are high going into Herne Bay United's crunch roller hockey game against Grimsby at the Pier Pavilion on Saturday, starting at 9pm. United must win against their accomplished, third placed opponents to have a chance of securing the National League title. United are top but are only one point clear of Maidstone, who also play Grimsby the next day.
In the Kent League, Herne Bay United Z took on Herne Bay United Y on Saturday, fielding a weakened team, due to three players being unable to play. This took its toll during a fast-paced game where the team lacked stamina due to their inability to make any substitutions. Despite a resilient display, and a late fightback by Ben Jackson, Z were unable to suppress Y, whose captain Simon Hosking netted five goals and guided his team to a 7 - 6 victory.
Posted: 13 June 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Herne Bay United 2 - 2 Maidstone (Played: Saturday 1 June)
Brendan Barker struck a priceless late equaliser as Herne Bay United drew 2 - 2 with fellow National Senior League title contenders Maidstone at the Pier on Saturday. The result kept United one point clear of their Kent rivals and the championship will be decided on the weekend of June 15-16 when both teams have home games against Grimsby.
A tense contest began with United looking the stronger and they forced a number of saves from Paul Haynes in the Maidstone goal. United successfully coped with Maidstone's counter attacks and went ahead midway through the opening period with a long-range slap shot from Kurt Holmes. This spurred Maidstone into greater efforts and the United defence was put under severe pressure, eventually succumbing five minutes before the interval when Stuart Doughty smashed home a loose ball following a goalmouth scramble.
The second half was just as competitive as the first and Barker was denied a goal from the penalty spot by Haynes before Joe Wheatley put Maidstone ahead following a direct free hit. Only eight minutes remained at that stage but United pressed to gain possession and created a wave of attacks which brought reward four minutes from time when Barker struck with a blistering shot.
United's match with Grimsby is at the Pier on Saturday, June 15, start 9pm.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Sam Jackson, Ben Jackson, Neil Austin, Brendan Barker, Kurt Holmes, Dave Garlick
Posted: 6 June 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Under 13's
Joseph Singleton's goal a minute into the second half proved the winner for HBU under 13's against an improving Herne United side. Robert Carnell had put HBU in front, only for Luke Bremner to equalise.
United met the same opposition again on Sunday in a SECRHA League tournament. Liam Holland put HBU ahead but, in a truly exciting match, victory was snatched from their grasp in the final minute. Afterwards HBU hammered Farnham 14 - 0.
Joe Andrews, Myles Barker (1), Robert Carnell (1), Kai Dillon (2), Tom Hawkins, Liam Holland (3), Kenny Lowe (6), Myles Tichband (1)
Posted: 16 May 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Times
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Premier League: Halifax 3 - 7 Herne Bay United
The senior team struggled to put out a team and were reduced to just four players due to illness and other commitments, but they were ably assisted by Davis and Fidock from the junior ranks. In a nail-biting first half, only an excellent display by the Halifax goalkeeper limited HBU to a single goal, scored by Phil McVey in response to the Yorkshire club's double strike. Fidock equalised just after the break and HBU then went on to produce an inspired display to win 7 - 3.
Team: Dan Barton, Matt Barton (1), Karl Smith, Byron Davis, Joe Fidock (1), Phil McVey (5), Arran Bowyer, Stavros Zacharia, Dave Beeson
Posted: 16 May 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Times
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National Junior League: Halifax 0 - 14 Herne Bay United
Again depleted, the juniors made up their numbers with the addition of Joe King and Charlie Pughe from the intermediate squad. Byron Davis proved that he is returning to form by scoring seven goals in a 14 - 0 rout of Halifax.
Team: Arran Bowyer (1), Byron Davis, (7), Dave Beeson, Joe Fidock (2), Joe King (1), Charlie Pughe (2), Stavros Zacharia (1)
Posted: 16 May 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Times
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Senior National Cup
Herne Bay United cruised through to the final of the National Roller Hockey Association's senior knock-out cup with convincing wins over Maidstone and Colchester at the Pier on Saturday. United will now play Middlesbrough in the final at Peterborough on June 29, and remain on course for their fourth successive league and cup double. The senior knock-out was, for the first time, played as a round robin tournament with teams split into three pools, two of which were played at Manchester.
United took on Maidstone in their opening game and it was their Kent rivals who made the stronger start. Midway through the first period United upped the tempo and took the lead when Kurt Homes fired home an unstoppable shot after some excellent passing. United started the second half where they had left off in the first and doubled their lead through Brendan Barker after another fine team move. Barker, who was nursing a bad cut to his face after a first-half collision, then made it 3 - 0 before Maidstone's Stuart Doherty netted a last-minute consolation.
Colchester, the third team in the play-off, are two leagues below United and Maidstone and the gulf in class told as they lost both games heavily. Maidstone beat them 13 - 1 with United romping home 24 - 0. The final take place on June 29 and United skipper Phil McVey says his side are looking forward to locking horns again with the northerners. He said: "It's great to make it to the final again this year. We lost at home to Middlesbrough in the league earlier in the year, which was our first home defeat in more than six years so we will be looking for revenge come cup finals day." United, who are presently top of the Premier League, will be joined at Peterborough by their junior side, who face Letchworth in their final.
Posted: 2 May 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Junior National Cup, Schoolboys National Cup and SECRHA Minors
A National cup final awaits Herne Bay United Juniors after they qualified from their tournament in Manchester on Saturday despite being depleted by illness and unavailability. In the final they will meet Letchworth Juniors.
The United schoolboys side were further weakened by giving players to the juniors, and were unable to qualify. However, on Sunday they clinched the South East Counties schoolboy title in the final tournament of the series at Maidstone. Despite tiredness after their tip to Manchester they drew with Mayflower 4 - 4 and beat Maidstone, Reading and Herne Bay.
United's minors lent goalkeeper Joe Andrews to the schoolboys so under 11 keeper Joel Carnell was called up for their South East Counties tournament at Farnham. He gave a good account of himself as they beat Reading 11 - 2, and Farnham, but lost 6 - 2 to Herne bay on Sunday. Hayley Smith, the team's only girl, played her first game and scored twice against Reading.
Juniors: Dave Beeson, Joe Fidock, Stuart Almond, Paul Nelson, Jono Fell, Stavros Zacharia, Arran Bowyer, Charlie Pughe, Ian Smith, Joe King
Schoolboys: Joe Andrews, Jono Fell, Stavros Zacharia, Arran Bowyer, Charlie Pughe, Ian Smith, Joe King
Minors: Joel Carnell, Liam Holland, Kenny Lower, Keiran Smith, Hayley Smith, Kai Dillon, Myles Barker, Robert Carnell, Tom Hawkins, Myles Tichband
Posted: 25 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Senior National Cup
Herne Bay United bid for a place in the final of the National Roller Hockey Association Senior Cup on Saturday when they line up against Maidstone and Colchester at the Pier Pavilion. United face Maidstone at 6pm, and Colchester at 8pm in the round robin semi-final tournament, the winners of which go through to the final at Peterborough on June 29. The two other groups, played at Manchester, comprise Manchester, Letchworth and Sheffield (Pool A) and Middlesbrough, Herne United, and Mayflower (Pool B). The teams top in each pool will play off for the right to meet the winners of Pool C in the final. This is the first time the national cup has been played on this basis instead of a straight knock out.
Posted: 25 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Youth League
United's youth team played in a SECRHA tournament at Reading on Sunday, continuing their unbeaten run. They beat Mayflower 8 - 3, Reading 8 - 6, Farnham 13 - 2 and Herne Bay 11 - 1. This team will be competing in the Youth's National Cup qualifiers in Manchester on Saturday and competing in their final SECRHA tournament on Sunday at Maidstone.
Team: Joe Andrews, Arran Bowyer, Sean Carnell, Joe King, Charlie Pughe, Ian Smith, Stavros Zacharia
Posted: 18 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Cup Qualifiers
Herne Bay United Intermediates and Minors took part in the National Cup qualifiers at Newmarket. The Minors, mainly made up of under 11s were the youngest team there and gave an excellent account of themselves as they were beaten by Letchworth 4 - 3 and by Manchester 7 - 4. The intermediates panned Ely 6 - 2 and drew with Maidstone 5 - 5 in an exciting game.
Minors: Joe Andrews, Myles Barker, Joel Carnell, Robert Carnell, Kai Dillon, Tom Hawkins, Liam Holland, Kenny Lowe, Myles Tichband, Keiran Smith
Intermediates: Joe Andrews, Robert Carnell, Sean Carnell, Jono Fell, Joe King , Mathew Prout, Charlie Pughe, H Smith
Posted 18 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Juniors League: Herne Bay United 4 - 7 Letchworth
United's juniors were also in action against Letchworth, but they were unable to avenge an earlier 3 - 0 defeat, this time going down 7 - 4. They were weakened by several absences and Ben Jackson not being match-fit, and fell behind after five minutes through James Taylor's strike. Joe Fidock had United level within a minute and they then went ahead through Sam Jackson after keeper Paul Nelson had kept them in the game with several fine saves. Once again, though, the equaliser was almost immediate and the score remained at 2 - 2 at half time.
Early in the second half, two strikes by Taylor gave Letchworth breathing space and, despite goals by Sam and Ben Jackson, United fell 7 - 4 with the skilful Carlos Amaral claiming a hat-trick.
United Juniors: Dave Beeson, Joe Fidock, Stavros Zacharia, Arran Bowyer, Ben Jackson, Byron Davis, Sam Jackson, Paul Nelson
Posted: 18 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Herne Bay United 8 - 1 Letchworth (Played: Saturday 13 April)
Herne Bay United remained top of the National League when they defeated Letchworth 8 - 1 in a much-improved display. United, whose nearest challengers are Kent rivals Maidstone, were determined to improve on the 4 - 4 draw from their last meeting against Letchworth. They spurned several chances in the early part of the contest, but gradually settled down and they were rewarded with goals by Simon Hosking and Neil Austin late in the half to give them a 2 - 0 lead at the interval.
United continued the high standard of hockey for which they are renowned and a strike by Brendan Barker and two more from Hosking opened up a five goal gap. Keeper Dan Barton was again in excellent form, but was unable to keep out a close range shot from Anson that gave Letchworth their consolation goal. United finished well on top, though, with two more goals from Hosking, one following an amazing dribble through the Letchworth team by skipper Phil McVey who then set up his colleague. Late substitute Karl Smith was yellow carded within seconds of taking to the rink, but redeemed himself by scoring a well taken goal with a second of the game remaining.
Herne Bay United's next games are a National Cup tournament on April 27, also involving Maidstone and Colchester. The event starts at 6pm with Herne Bay against Maidstone.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Matt Barton, Brendan Barker, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Kurt Holmes, Dave Garlick
Posted 18 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Under 15's
Two huge victories were followed by a narrow defeat for Herne Bay United’s intermediate side in the final South Eastern Counties League tournament of the season at Reading on Sunday. The results left United in second place overall, a big improvement on last year's performance.
They beat Herne United 12 - 3 and Reading 18 - 0 but lost to Maidstone 3 - 2 in an exciting climax to the tournament. United are hoping to reverse that result this weekend when they meet Maidstone again in the Intermediate National Cup qualifiers at Newmarket.
Team: Joe Andrews, Robert Carnell, Sean Carnell, Jono Fell, Joe King, Philip Morris, Mathew Prout, Charlie Pughe
Posted: 11 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: HBU X 4 - 4 Farnham
Slack finishing in front of goal cost Herne Bay United X a Kent Premier League win as visitors Farnham landed a 4 - 4 draw. Although the hosts opened the scoring through a neatly timed chip shot from youngster Charlie Pughe, it was Farnham who made the most of their opportunities to lead 2 - 1 at half time
Farnham increased their lead soon after the restart, but home skipper Phil McVey rallied his troops with a much-needed goal. As chances continued to go begging, the visitors hit back to restore their two-goal cushion before Bay finally found their shooting form to grab a share of the points with goals from Byron Davis and Arran Bower.
This Saturday, April 13, the Pier Pavilion plays host to a NRHAL double bill with HBU Juniors taking on the their Letchworth counterparts at 7.30pm while senior sides from the same clubs do battle in the Senior Division stating at 9pm.
Posted 11 April 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: HBU X 6 - 1 Herne Bay (Played: Saturday 16 March)
Herne Bay United X cruised to a 6 - 1 success over Herne Bay, with two of the club's 15-year-olds taking the chance to add to their senior league experience. X, led by Phil McVey, raced into a 3 - 0 lead and by half time they were 4 - 1 up. Two second half strikes confirmed their superiority. McVey and Jackson scored two each and there were singles for Karl Smith and Arran Bowyer.
HBU X: David Beeson, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Sam Jackson, Arran Bowyer, Jon Barton, James King, Ian Smith
Posted: 21 March 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: HBU Z 9 - 6 Herne United (Played: Saturday 16 March)
Herne Bay United Z maintained their place at the top of the Kent Premier Roller Hockey League when they defeated Herne United 9 - 6 at the Pier Pavilion. Z, led by Brendan Barker, set a cracking pace and Kurt Holmes netted the first goal less than two minutes into the match. This was shortly followed by his second, before a lapse in marking gave Herne's Peter Taylor the opening he needed to pull one back. Paul Goulbourne then shot past unsighted Z keeper Paul Nelson to level the scores with 10 minutes on the clock. It was then that Z took control and struck five more to make the half time score 7 - 2.
With the referee busy, and Z losing some shape, Herne closed the gap with three more goals, before Barker extended the gap again. In the last two minutes, both teams struck once to make the final score 9 - 6. Holmes ended with a hat-trick and there were doubles for Barker, Joe Fidock and Ben Jackson.
HBU Z: Paul Nelson, Brendan Barker, Kurt Holmes, Joe Fidock, Ben Jackson, Alexis Zacharia
Posted: 21 March 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Under 17's
Despite losing four of their squad to Kent premier matches, HBU Youth performed wonders to finish unbeaten at Sunday's Secrha Tournament in Farnham. Although they got off to a tentative start, the re-shaped side went on the beat Maidstone 7 - 5, Mayflower 6 - 3, Farnham 8 - 3 and Reading 8 - 0.
Team: Joe Andrews, Arran Bowyer, Sean Carnell, Joe King, Charlie Pughe, Ian Smith, Stavros Zacharia
Posted: 7 March 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: HBU Y 24 - 0 Farnham and HBU X 4 - 12 Herne United (Played: Saturday 2 March)
Simon Hosking's Herne Bay United Y roller hockey side went on the rampage against bottom club Farnham to secure an emphatic 24 - 0 Kent Premier League win. The visitors were hampered by the loss of Elliott Whattingham through a back injury in the first half and never had a chance after going into the break 15 - 0 behind. Skipper Hosking led the scoring stakes with eight, while Neil Austin netted seven, Matt Barton six and Stavros Zacharia a hat-trick.
Also on the Pier Pavilion bill, title-chasing Herne United selected substitute keeper Chris Johnson but were otherwise at full-strength in sweeping aside HBU X 12 - 4. The first half proved a fairly even affair as the X team scored through junior player Byron Davis (3) and the fast improving Arran Bowyer to trail 6 - 4 at the change round. Herne United's greater experience started to show in the second period as they ran away with the points with six unanswered goals.
This latest round of results leaves Herne United and HBU Z level on points at the top of the table, though HBU enjoy a superior goal difference. HBU Y lie just a point behind the leading pair, ensuring that the next round of games on Saturday, March 16, will be vital,. That night HBU Z take on Herne United, while HBU Y entertain team-mates HBU X.
Posted: 7 March 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent League Under 13's: Herne Bay 4 - 2 Herne Bay United
Herne Bay Roller hockey Club's under 13 section enjoyed a convincing 4 - 2 local derby win over Kent League rivals Herne Bay United. Good work by Mike Turner and Richard Butcher helped win Bay the lion's share of possession right from the first whistle, but United held firm until the 10th minute when James Hoare opened the scoring. Three minutes later Ben Cox doubled the Bay tally and it remained at 2 - 0 until the change around.
United pulled a goal back through Liam Holland at the start of the second period, but with seven minutes remaining Hoare restored Bay's two-goal lead. United rallied again and set up an exciting finish with a goal from Robert Carnell, but Hoare was on hand to complete his hat-trick and secure the victory two minutes from time.
Posted: 28 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Manchester 6 - 8 Herne Bay United (Played: Saturday 23 February)
Herne Bay United travelled north to gain valuable league points with an 8 - 6 win over Manchester. United are notoriously slow starters on smaller rinks such as Manchester's, but reversed that trend with a goal after just six minutes when Simon Hosking deflected a firm pass into the top corner. Skipper Philip McVey was next on the scoresheet after dribbling round the Manchester goalkeeper, and then laid on the long pass for Hosking to make it 3 - 0 at the mid-way point of the first half. Working hard in defence and positive in midfield, Bay added to their tally through Neil Austin before Mark Colton scored for Manchester. Just before the break Brendan Barker hit Bay's fifth.
A surprise goal from Mark Innis just 15 seconds after the restart sparked United into action and goals from McVey, Barker and Karl Smith gave the visitors what appeared an insurmountable lead at 8 - 2 with just 18 minutes left. Manchester changed tactics for the last quarter of the game and their full-team press reaped rewards as they forced United back into defence. Keeper Dan Barton was beaten six times, but performed heroics to save three penalty attempts to ensure Bay held out until the final whistle to claim all the league points.
Roller hockey returns to the Pier Pavilion this Saturday when HBU X take on Herne United and Farnham play HBU Y in the Kent Premier League fixtures starting at 7.30pm.
Team: Dan Barton, Phil McVey (2), Karl Smith (1), Simon Hosking (2), Neil Austin (1), Brendan Barker (2), Kurt Holmes
Posted: 28 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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World Junior Championships
Herne Bay United Roller Hockey Club teenagers Ben and Sam Jackson were two of England's stars in the Under 18 team competing at the World Roller Hockey Junior Championship in Chile. During the eight-game tournament, Ben and Sam, both 17, helped England outplay Brazil 2 - 1, New Zealand 6 - 0, South Africa 2 - 1 and France 2 - 1.
The Jackson twins were on top form in South America as Sam finished top scorer with six goals and Ben netted a further four of England's tournament tally of 13. The England youth teams have struggled in past competitions, but improved funding and better training facilities paid dividends as the side packed a 4,000-seater stadium with victories that helped lift England to fourth in the world.
Posted: 28 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent League HBU X 6 - 14 HBU Z (Played: Saturday 16 February)
A weakened HBU X side gave their all despite sliding to a 14 - 6 defeat at the hand of inter-club rivals HBU Z. The Z men soon stamped their authority on the game with skipper Brendan Barker driving his side forward to score four in the opening 10 minutes. But X team skipper Phil McVey rallied his troops to cut the half time deficit to 8 - 4, but the interplay of Barker and junior player Joe Fidock continued to give HBU Z the edge and six further second half goals gave them a comfortable 14 - 6 win.
HBU X: David Beeson, Phil McVey (1), Karl Smith (2), Arran Bowyer (3), Jon Barton, Charlie Pughe
HBU Z: Paul Nelson, Brendan Barker (7), Kurt Holmes (2), Joe Fidock (5), Alexis Zacharia
Posted: 21 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent League: HBU Y 12 - 1 Herne Bay (Played: Saturday 16 February)
Neil Austin showed signs of a welcome return to form by scoring twice in a 12 - 1 Herne Bay United Y victory over local rivals Herne Bay. Captain Simon Hosking led his side by example, scoring seven goals in all as the Y Team rattled up an 8 - 1 half time lead with Bay's sole consolation goal from Mick Harris. Herne Bay's experienced goalkeeper Robert Hougham performed heroics throughout the second half to limit Hosking’s side to four more goals with every player getting onto the score-sheet.
HBU Y: Simon Hosking (7), Neil Austin (2), Matt Barton (1), Nick Barton (1), Stavros Zacharia (1)
Herne Bay: Hougham, Walters, Harris (1), Adams, Cathcart, Halvorsen, Dalton
Posted: 21 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Under 17's
HBU Youth team played in the first Secrha tournament of the season at the Pier on Sunday, winning all four games. They beat Herne Bay 7 - 0, Farnham 12 - 2, Reading 15 - 0 and Maidstone 9 - 0. It was the first time the Youth team had played together, but they were in excellent form, especially goalkeeper Joe Andrews, a 13-year-old playing in the under-17 age group.
Team: Joe Andrews, Arran Bowyer, Sean Carnell, Joe King, Ian Smith, Charlie Pughe, Stavros Zacharia
Posted: 14 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Junior League: Herne Bay United 10 - 2 Middlesbrough
United gained revenge in the National Junior League clash between the two sides, running out impressive 10 - 2 winners despite missing four of their regular line-up. Ben and Sam Jackson were both playing for the national team in Chile while Byron Davis and Stuart Almond were unavailable due to work commitments. Their places were taken by Charlie Pughe and schoolboys Stavros Zacharia, Arran Bowyer and Ian Smith. The convincing nature of the win underlined how strong United's youth policy is.
Middlesbrough opened the scoring with an early goal from Stuart Hutchinson, but within eight seconds Joe Fidock had equalised, who hit another two minutes later and a goal form Bowyer made it 3 - 1. Pughe then sneaked in for a debut goal with Zacharia adding a fifth before the break. Hutchinson again struck early at the start of the second period, but Bowyer's second of the evening made it 6 - 2. Pughe and Smith, with a smart double, then took the game well beyond Middlesbrough's reach. Paul Nelson and David Beeson shared the goalkeeping duties.
Posted: 14 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Herne Bay United 3 - 5 Middlesbrough
Herne Bay United suffered their first defeat of the season in the National Senior League when they were beaten 5 - 3 at home by Middlesbrough. The result, coupled with Maidstone's 3 - 2 defeat of Middlesbrough the following day, means United are no longer top of the table.
They made a disastrous start against Boro when a moment's indecision allowed Stuart Hutchinson to fire the visitors ahead inside 30 seconds. For the remainder of the first half the teams battled for supremacy, as United, without skipper Phil McVey, tried to find their usual form. Boro keeper Graham Scurr, a last-minute replacement, helped frustrate United until the closing minutes of the half when Simon Hosking brought them level. After a brief period of possession at the start of the second half, Kurt Holmes smashed a long-range slap-shot past Scurr, but the lead did not last long as Jones promptly did exactly the same at the other end. United then peppered the Boro goal but only once was Scurr beaten when Hosking produced some clever ball juggling before firing home.
Two unfortunate goals gave Boro the initiative, the first was scored by Spaniard Capella after two home defenders had gone for the same tackle, and the second, a deflected effort, gave keeper Dan Barton no chance. Derrick Smith put the game beyond doubt with a late goal leaving United with little margin for error in their remaining matches.
United's next National League match is away to Manchester on Saturday, February 23, but this Saturday all of the club's Kent Premier League teams will be in action at the Pier Pavilion. Herne Bay United X meet HBU Z at 7.30pm, with HBU Y taking on Herne Bay at 9pm.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, David Garlick, Kurt Holmes, Brendan Barker, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Nick Barton, Karl Smith
Posted: 14 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent League Under 15's and SECRHA Under 11's
Herne Bay United's junior sides scored freely at the weekend, the under 15's leading the way with an 8 - 1 win over Herne United in the Kent League. The under 11's played in a South East Counties tournament, beating Herne Bay 6 - 0 and Herne United 4 - 3.
Under 15's: Joe Andrews, Robert Carnell, Sean Carnell, Jono Fell, Joe King, Mathew Prout, Charlie Pughe
Under 11's: Myles Barker, Joel Carnell, Kai Dillon, Tom Hawins, Kenny Lowe, Keiran Smith, Myles Tichband
Posted: 7 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: HBU Z 7 - 5 HBU Y
Herne Bay United's Z team took a giant step toward the Kent Premier Roller Hockey League when they defeated fellow unbeaten outfit Herne Bay United Y at the weekend. The match was nip and tuck all the way until Joe Fidock and Alexis Zacharia struck to give Z a cushion that they held for the final two-and-a-half minutes. Matt Barton had put Y ahead in the seventh minute and with Garrett Priestly in superb form in goal, it looked a tough task for Z, but Kurt Holmes equalised quickly with a superb slap shot. Y were back ahead when Neil Austin slid one under Dan Barton, but as the half drew to a close Fidock came on for Ben Jackson and scored from a beautifully flighted roll shot over Priestley's left shoulder. Brendan Barker rounded off the half by sweeping home an inch-perfect pass from Fidock to give Z a 3 - 2 interval lead.
Two minutes into the second half Barker grabbed his second goal of the match when a Holmes shot rebounded behind Y's goal, leaving Priestley stranded on his right post. Simon Hosking produced a captain's goal to bring Y back into the game. In the final four minutes Holmes scored with a surprise flick shot to make it 5 - 3 to Z, but a double for Matt Barton levelled the scores at 5 - 5. Fidock then joined the fray again and he and Zacharia scored the killer goals that gained the points.
Y: Garrett Priestley, Stavros Zacharia, Nick Barton, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Matt Barton
Z: Dan Barton, Alexis Zacharia, Brendan Barker, Ben Jackson, Joe Fidock, Kurt Holmes
Posted: 7 February 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Times
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Premier League: Sheffield 1 - 14 Herne Bay United (Played: Saturday 26 January) and Grimsby 3 - 12 Herne Bay United (Played: Sunday 27 January)
Herne Bay United Roller Hockey Club remain on course to retain the National Senior League title after a successful trip north at the weekend. On Saturday they trounced Sheffield 14 - 1 and on Sunday ended Grimsby's unbeaten record when they thrashed them 12 - 3.
United were always in command against Sheffield and led 6 - 0 at half time. They continued to rack up the goals after the interval and finished easy winners. Phil McVey led the way with six goals, Simon Hosking and Kurt Holmes both grabbed hat-tricks and Karl Smith and Brendan Barker one each. Goalkeepers Dan Barton and David Garlick shared time between the sticks and restricted Sheffield to a solitary second half goal.
Sunday's game against a strong and undefeated Grimsby promised to prove a much stiffer test, although United were strengthened by the arrival of Neil Austin. The early exchanges were even, but it was Grimsby who broke the deadlock when Mark Waddingham caught United napping from a set play free hit to given them an early lead. This at least served to stir United into life and their superior finishing, especially that of Simon Hosking who scored four times and Austin, gave them a 5 - 1 half time lead. Once again keepers Garlick and Barton did an excellent job in preventing Grimsby from capitalising on their early advantage. United steadily increased their lead with second half goals by Phil McVey 2, Hosking, Brendan Barker, Kurt Holmes 2, and a well deserved strike by the improving Sam Jackson. The home side hit a couple of late consolation goals, but United never let their dominance slip.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Sam Jackson, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Kurt Holmes, David Garlick, Brendan Barker
Posted: 31 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Under 20's, Under 15's and Under 13's
Herne Bay United's Junior team won all three of their matches in a South East Counties Roller Hockey Association tournament on Sunday. They beat Reading 13 - 0, Farnham 18 - 0 and host club Highworth 5 - 3.
The under 15's had a SECRHA tournament at the Pier Pavilion, beating Henre United 8 - 1 and Reading 12 - 3 but losing 2 - 0 to Maidstone in an exciting match.
The under 13's lost 3 - 2 to Herne Bay in the Kent League on Saturday night.
Under 13: Joe Andrews, Myles Barker, Joel Carnell, Robert Carnell, Tom Hawkins, Liam Holland, Joel Lawford, Kenny Lowe, Keiran Smith, Myles Tichband
Under 15: Joe Andrews, Robert Carnell, Sean Carnell, Jono Fell, Joe King, Philip Morris, Mathew Prout, Charlie Pughe
Juniors: Dave Beeson, Arran Bowyer, Byron Davis, Joe Fidock, Sam Jackson, Paul Nelson, Stavros Zacharia
Posted: 24 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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CERS Cup: Clube Infante de Sagres 15 - 0 Herne Bay United (Played: Saturday 19 January)
Herne Bay United could only muster seven of the first team to travel away to Portugal for the European (CERS) Cup and unsurprisingly their campaign ended with a 15 - 0 defeat against Clube Infante de Sagres on Saturday. One of the vacant personnel places was taken by Bay Junior Ben Jackson, who is preparing for the World Championship for Schoolboys (under 17's) in Chile next month. The rink belonging to the host club was superb, purpose built recently with a capacity of 1,000, and Bay's welcome was warm but professional.
The first half score was 7 - 0 to the Spaniards, with keeper David Garlick working well, frustrating the Spanish stars. Not many chances came Bay's way but with all the players, especially captain Phil McVey, on a damage limitation exercise it was young Jackson who came closest to scoring. The final score was 15 - 0 to the Spaniards, which reflected the situation Bay were in and all Bay's players contributed to keeping the score respectable and acceptable in the circumstances.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, David Garlick, Phil McVey, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Dendy Hudson, Karl Smith, Ben Jackson.
This weekend Herne Bay United play two National Roller Hockey Amateur League Senior Division matches. On Saturday they play in Barnsley against Sheffield, and on Sunday they are in Immingham against Grimsby.
Posted: 24 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Under 15's League
Herne Bay United Under 15s defeated Herne Bay 2 - 0 in the Kent League at the Pier on Saturday night
Team: Joe Andrews, Robert Carnell, Sean Carnell, Jono Fell, Joe King, Philip Morris, Mathew Prout, Charlie Pughe
Posted: 17 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Herne Bay United 3 - 1 Maidstone (Played: Saturday 12 January)
Herne Bay United took a massive step towards retaining the National Senior League title with a 3 - 1 victory over Maidstone at the weekend. No team in the league now has maximum points and United have only dropped one point, putting them in the driving seat. The first half was the usual close encounter between these two teams and many chances were created, only to be saved by experienced goalkeepers Dan Barton of Herne Bay and Paul Haynes of Maidstone. Midway through the half Simon Hosking turned past a defender and his cleanly-struck shot flew into the top corner of the net to give United a 1 - 0 lead-an advantage they held onto until the interval.
During the second half United played superb possession hockey which created a brilliant deflected goal by Nick Barton. They increased their lead when Simon Hosking scored a repeat of his earlier goal 15 minutes from time. United were surprised that Maidstone did not press them harder, but they controlled the game well and Tommy Harbord managed a solitary goal for the visitors just before the final whistle to five United a well deserved 3 - 1 win.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Nick Barton, Brendan Barker, Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Dendy Hudson, Kurt Holmes, David Garlick
On Saturday United play the second leg of their European CERS Cup tie against Clube Infante de Sagres of Portugal, in Porto, having lost the home leg 10 - 2
Posted: 17 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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SECRHA Under 11s League
Herne Bay United's Under 11 team played in the first of SECRHA's junior tournament at the pier on Sunday. They won against Herne Bay by six goals to one and drew with Herne United 4 - 4 in an exciting and close fought game.
Team: Myles Barker, Joel Carnell, Tom Hawkins, Kenny Lowe, Kieran Smith, Myles Tichband
Posted: 10 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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CERS Cup: Herne Bay United 2 - 10 Clube Infante de Sagres (Played: Saturday 5 January)
Herne Bay United put up a commendable and spirited performance against the top Portuguese roller hockey side Clube Infante de Sagres in Saturday's European Cup clash at the Pier Pavilion. Playing against a side from Oporto that included three Spanish world championship winners, United matched the visitors until the final 15 minutes when the superior fitness levels of the full-timers paid dividends with five goals that gave the final scoreline a flattering look of 10 - 2.
The Portuguese showed their capabilities right from the off when quick stick-handling by Luis Viana allowed him to slice through the home defence and drill the ball past Dan Barton for the opening goal after just 30 seconds. The goal jolted United into life and the home side took the attack to the visitors only to be hit on the break with a second goal for Viana after 10 minutes. Bay replied within a minute when Brendan Barker pounced on a loose ball in front of goal and smashed it into the net to the delight of the local supporters. With Dan Barton blocking every shot that came his way, the excitement mounted when Simon Hosking had his rebounded penalty shot nudged over the bar. Just moments afterwards a Kurt Holmes special found its way into the Portuguese net. His hit from near the centre spot made it 2 - 2 with 10 minutes of the half remaining only for Viana to complete a first half hat-trick and give the visitors a slender half-time lead.
The game's high pace continued in the second half, but the Portuguese professionals upped the tempo further to notch seven goals past United's second half keeper David Garlick, two of which came from penalties.
In the supporting game, Hertfordshire side Letchworth were 3 - 2 winners over Swiss visitors Diesbach. United return to National Senior League action at the Pier Pavilion this Saturday with a local derby tie with Maidstone.
Team: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Nick Barton, Brendan Barker (1), Simon Hosking, Neil Austin, Dendy Hudson, Kurt Holmes (1) David Garlick
Posted: 10 January 2002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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CERS Cup
The Pier Pavilion is gearing itself up for the biggest night of the roller hockey season this Saturday when Herne Bay United play host to two CERS European Cup matches. At the head of the bill British champions Herne Bay United take on Portuguese side Clube Infante de Segres while, on the under-card, Hertfordshire side Letchworth take on Swiss entrants Diesbach.
The United match, which is scheduled to start around 8.45pm will be a tough tie for the hosts against a fully professional club from Porto who boast players with an earning capacity of £4,000 a month. The Clube Infante side includes three Spanish internationals from the team that won the World Championship title in Argentina last October.
Posted: 3 January 21002
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Minors League
Herne Bay United Minors beat Herne United 3 - 1 in a hard-fought Kent League game on Saturday. Liam Holland scored two magnificent goals in the first half.
Team: Joe Andrews, Myles Barker, Joel Carnell, Robert Carnell, Tom Hawkins, Liam Holland, Joel Lawford, Kenny Lowe, Kieran Smith, Myles Tichband
Posted: 20 December 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Under 20s League: Middlesbrough 1 - 8 Herne Bay United (Played: Saturday 15 December)
Herne Bay United Juniors enjoyed the 600-mile round trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday after returning from their Junior National Premier League match with an emphatic 8 - 1 victory. The hosts won two penalties inside the opening two minutes. Paul Nelson saved the first attempt, but Stuart Hutchinson scored the second to give Boro a 1 - 0 lead. United levelled within two minutes when Byron Davis pounced, and they finally edged ahead with nine minutes of the half remaining when Ben Jackson netted, then Joe Fidock made it 3 - 1 at the interval.
With a two-goal cushion the visitors adopted a more attacking policy for the second half and were rewarded with five unanswered goals. Ben Jackson netted his second, while the others came from Fidock, Almond (2) and Sam Jackson while David Beeson enjoyed a second-half shut-out in the Bay goal.
Team: David Beeson, Joe Fidock, Stuart Almond, Ben Jackson, Byron Davis, Sam Jackson, Paul Nelson.
Posted: 20 December 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Middlesbrough 5 - 6 Herne Bay United (Played: Saturday 15 December)
A depleted Herne Bay United roller hockey side showed real character in travelling to Middlesbrough to grind out a 6 - 5 National Senior League win. United got off to the worst possible start when they lost Brendan Barker in the opening minutes of the match with a head injury, after hitting the goal post. That brought on junior player Sam Jackson for a senior league debut, while Barker recovered on the sidelines. Despite numerous chances for the visitors, it was Middlesbrough who opened the scoring through a cracking shot from Hutchinson, but Simon Hosking equalised within two minutes after forcing the ball past the home keeper. Hosking then missed a penalty stroke allowing the hosts to restore their lead with a Hutchinson breakaway goal, but Hosking redeemed himself to make to 2 - 2 at the interval.
The game ebbed and flowed throughout the first half as the sides battled for superiority and only a string of fine saves from David Garlick helped limit the hosts to two goals soon after the re-start. In a bid to chase the game United reverted to a full-rink press for the final 10 minutes of the match, a tactical change that reaped rich reward with goals from captain Phil McVey, a fit-again Barker, Jackson and Hosking. With a minute remaining Borough snatched a goal back but Bay held out to extend their unbeaten run and keep confidence high ahead of next month's CERS Cup ties. United are scheduled to play top Portuguese side Club Infante de Sagres on a home and away basis in January and face National Senior League games against Maidstone, Grimsby and Sheffield.
Team: David Garlick, Phil McVey (1), Karl Smith, Brendan Barker (1), Sam Jackson (1), Simon Hosking (3), Ben Jackson, Joe Fidock, Paul Nelson
Posted: 20 December 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent League Under 15s
Herne Bay United's intermediate team lost 5 - 3 to Maidstone at the Pier in the Kent League on Saturday.
Team: Joe Andrews, Robert Carnell, Sean Carnell, Jono Fell, Joe King, Philip Morris, Mathew Prout, Charlie Pughe
Posted:29 November 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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National Under 20 League: Letchworth 3 - 0 Herne Bay United (Played: Saturday 24 November)
Herne Bay United's juniors slipped to a 3 - 0 defeat in their opening National Under 20 League match away to Letchworth on Saturday. The compact Hitchin rink does not suit teams used to playing at the much larger Pier Pavilion, and the visitors were further unsettled by the fact that the match officials permitted the game to be played with a running clock, taking no account of stoppages. With each team boasting several England players it was always likely to be a close contest, but despite playing some excellent hockey United's finishing let them down.
They trailed 3 - 0 at the break before rallying strongly. They failed to capitalise on a penalty and a direct free hit and the running clock allowed Letchworth to protest to such an extent that only 15 minutes were actually played. United's next junior match is on Saturday, December 8 when they face Halifax at the Pier, start 7.30 pm. The senior fixture between the sides is at 9pm
Team: David Beeson, Joe Fidock, Stavros Zacharia, Arran Bowyer, Stuart Almond, Ben Jackson, Byron Davis, Sam Jackson, Paul Nelson
Posted: 29 November 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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Premier League: Letchworth 4 - 4 Herne Bay United Played: Saturday 24 November)
A last-minute goal helped Herne Bay United salvage a 4 - 4 draw in a seesaw National Premier League contest away to Letchworth on Saturday. The small rink did not really suit United and keeper Dan Barton was continually in action, but he could do nothing about Letchworth's opener, which went in off the foot of Nigel Allen. Simon Hosking equalised from the penalty spot two minutes later when he coolly dribbled round the home keeper and Nick Barton then put United ahead with a fine strike. A second goal from Hosking gave United a 3 - 1 half time advantage but the excitement mounted as Letchworth scored from a direct free hit, and then a penalty to draw level.
Then a Shaun Pearce shot bounced under keeper Barton and this set the game up for a frantic last quarter. There were only 50 seconds left when Hosking pounced to complete his hat-trick, but he then collected a further card which means he will have to miss United's next league game at home to Halifax.
Herne Bay United: Dan Barton, Phil McVey, Karl Smith, Nick Barton, Brendan Barker, Simon Hosking, Alexis Zacharia, Dendy Hudson, Kurt Holmes, David Garlick.
Posted: 29 November 2001
Herne Bay Gazette
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Kent Premier League: HBU X 6 - 3 Farnham and HBU Y 3 - 3 Herne United
Herne Bay United, Kent Premier League champions, are again bidding for the title-but not with their usual first team! The coaches have taken the opportunity to develop some of the club's highly-rated junior players now taking on senior ranking. In the KPL this season, United will field three fairly equal teams - known as X, Y and Z-with only six outplayers instead of the customary eight. The move will also make it a more open competition.
Captain Phil McVey captained the X team on Saturday when the curtain was raised on a new season. United were 0 - 3 down at the halfway mark against Farnham but hit back to win the friendly match 6 - 3.
Team: David Beeson, Phil McVey, Karl Smith (1), Sam Jackson (2), Byron Davis (3), Arron Bowyer, Jon Barton
Captain Simon Hosking face a similar problem with the Y team against Herne United. The unfamiliar team mix took time to gel and, at the interval, Herne were 3 - 1 ahead. But, despite the brilliance of goalkeeper Darren Pooley, Herne were pegged back to 3 - 3 at the end.
HBU Y: David Garlick, Simon Hosking (3), Neil Austin, Nick Barton, Stuart Almond, Stavros Zacharia, Matt Barton.
A minute's silence was observed in tribute to Stan Oliver, former president of the Kent County RHA, who died last weekend.
Posted: 8 November 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Times
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World Group A Championships
Five roller hockey players from Herne Bay United were given a torrid time on and off the rink when they travelled to Argentina to represent England in the World Group A Championships. England were back in the elite group for the first time in 15 years, but they were given anything but a warm welcome by the partisan Argentinean supporters.
Goalkeeper Dan Barton was joined in the 10-strong national squad by Herne Bay United teammates Chris Espejo, Brendan Barker, Simon Hosking and Phil McVey who was captain. Neil Austin was also selected to go but had to pull out. Each member of the squad forked out about £1100 to make the trip, and had to endure a 40-hour journey just to reach their destination, San Juan. But Barton said the Argentineans made their hostility known right from the opening ceremony when a packed crowd of about 8,000 gave the English team a distinctly unsporting reception. He believes some Argentineans still bear a grudge over the Falklands conflict.
Barton, a 29-year-old IT consultant, said: "They were very hostile to say the least. The arena was packed and as we skated out on to the rink for the opening ceremony they were booing and hissing and shouting all kinds of abuse. It surprised me because the Falklands War was nearly 20 years ago and half of the team don't even remember it. I was only 12 or 13 at the time and I was surprised that they still bore a grudge. It was the same for the closing ceremony and during the games we had hardly anyone cheering for us. It was not very pleasant but it was just a case of getting on with it."
Barton revealed that the squad had the services of a bodyguard during the trip, but added that not all the natives were unfriendly. "After the problems at the opening ceremony a dear old lady came to our hotel and apologised for the reception we had been given, which was really touching."
England had qualified for Group A by winning the Group B championships at Buckmore Park, Chatham, but with two members of that squad unavailable, they failed to sparkle in San Juan. Group defeats against Italy (8 - 0), Brazil (6 - 0) and the USA (2 - 0) were then followed by a 7 - 2 reverse against Germany. But a walkover against Canada meant that if England overcame Holland in their final play-off they woule retain their place in the elite 16 for the next championship. England had beaten Holland 2 - 0 in the Group B finals at Buckmore, but they were unable to repeat the performance, losing 4 - 2 to once again slip out of the world's top 16.
"The chance to perform against the world's best for possibly the only time in our career was the motivating factor for most of us to find the money but the results were disappointing," admitted Barton. "We should have beaten the USA in the group stages, but just could not get the ball into the net. We seemed to raise our game against the better sides, but our main problems were fitness and a lack of preparation. In some cases we were up against professional who get thousands of pounds a month in pocket money alone."
Spain won the title, defeating Argentina after a penalty shoot-out in the final.
Posted 25 October 2001
Reported by: Herne Bay Gazette
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