Gordonians U18 and Perthshire U18 delivered a superb afternoon of hockey at Countesswells, treating players, coaches, and supporters to a fast, competitive, and spirited encounter. A huge thank-you goes to Perthshire for making the journey north, and to the many parents who turned out in support and kindly provided teas and traybakes for players and spectators. Their contribution helped create a fantastic atmosphere around the pitch.

The match began at high tempo, with both sides showing strong structure and impressive ball movement. Gordonians settled well, building confidently from the back through the composed defensive pairing of Thijmen van Zeil and Peter Fish, who read the game intelligently and distributed calmly under pressure. Full backs Max Grant and Leo Wishart were excellent throughout, offering width, composure, and reliable outlets to launch attacks.

In midfield, the trio of Max Steele, Matthew Tomkins, and Eli Clark worked tirelessly to link play and drive Gordonians forward. Clark’s energy and stick skill were evident from the start, while Steele and Tomkins controlled central areas with determination and smart decision-making. Up front, Aleks Rennie, Josh Morrice and Evan McDonald provided strong leads and constant threat, stretching the Perthshire defence.

Despite the promising opening, it was Perthshire who produced the defining spell of the first half. Capitalising clinically on a 10-minute period before the interval, they struck three well-taken goals that punished defensive lapses and gave them a commanding lead. Even at 3–0 down, Gordonians showed admirable resilience, continuing to play positive hockey and keeping the ball with confidence. Goalkeeper Alan Younger ensured the deficit remained manageable with several sharp, composed saves.

After half-time, Gordonians came out with renewed intensity, pressing higher and moving the ball fluidly. However, Perthshire extended their advantage from a penalty corner, making it 4–0. Lesser teams might have folded, but Gordonians did the opposite, producing their best spell of the match.

The comeback began when Eli Clark fired home a superb reverse-stick finish before quickly adding a second with another moment of quality. With belief surging, Gordonians struck again as a slick team move ended with Aleks Rennie deflecting expertly to make it 4–3. The home side pushed hard for a deserved equaliser, but with numbers committed forward, Perthshire countered clinically to secure a 5–3 win.

Thanks also go to umpires Will Serle and Peter Fraser for officiating so well, and to club stalwarts John Mowat and Alan Innes for coming along to support the next generation.

A brilliant match and a proud performance from Gordonians. We look forward to arranging further matches for the boys to play together as a club against their peers.

Photo: Gordonians U18 Boys & Perthshire U18 Boys