Who, after securing three famous victories against National League club opposition, were crowned joint winners of the 4th annual East Grinstead Back to Hockey tournament.

First up were East Grinstead Harriers and with slight trepidation Lewes entered the half time break a goal down. However, after some simple words of encouragement from coach Peter Thomas, were much improved in the second half scoring two unanswered goals from Rebecca “goal machine” Branton and newest recruit David “Lewes” Smith.

After a short break, the second game against Guildford saw another strong performance from Lewes, with forwards Fran Moulds and Kate Sherwood terrorizing the opposition defence, allowing Branton to score a second and Alex “the engine room” Pewter to claim his first. The game finished 2-0 to Lewes and another three points secured.

Game three saw the turn of the defence to take the plaudits with goal-keeper Simon “the wall” Bullmore, Mark Pearson, Captain Ollie Pendered and goal line heroine Becky Wycherley ferociously protecting the Lewes goal. This allowed Smith to score his second of the day, deep into the first half, and Lewes record their third successive win.

The final game of the day pitted Lewes against the much fancied Marden Russets and yet despite going into the break three goals to nil down, the team in black came out fighting, claiming their first penalty corner which Branton coolly slotted into the left corner. This was quickly followed by a great team goal, finished by Smith that saw Lewes win the second half two goals to one.

For a team that have only been together for a few weeks, many of whom have not played hockey for some years and others who only picked up a stick for the first time in May, the performances and results were exceptional. A fantastic team led by captain Ollie Pendered with a wonderful sense of camaraderie and enjoyment throughout.

If you would like to try hockey yourself, sessions continue at the Southdown Sports Club on Tuesday evenings from 19:15-21:00 in June. To find out how you can get involved, email coach Peter Thomas on development@leweshc.com

Report by Peter Thomas