It was an effort that was more workmanlike than spectacular. An injury hit GB squad – both of the Mantell brothers were rested – took on Poland at Reading this evening (Friday). The event was noteworthy for the enormous crowd of spectators, many from Reading’s Polish community, who flocked to the Sonning Lane ground, and gave the match an atmosphere quite unlike any I have witnessed at a club ground in recent years. Poland, who themselves are due to take part in an Olympic Qualifier in Japan, are a competent side with a strong defence, despite their lower world ranking, and are probably a good test for Great Britain in advance of their trip to Chile for their own Olympic Qualifier next month.
Great Britain seemed to have much of the running in the early part of the match and opened the scoring with a goal from Jonty Clarke. But it was Barry Middleton, whose skills on the ball and under pressure demonstrated why he has just been voted the UK Player of 2007, who shone throughout the match and demonstrated what a world class player he has become. Unfortunately, an old England/Great Britain problem crept into the game as the first half progressed – a loss of concentration - and Poland scored via Tomasz Marcinkowski from open play in the 22nd minute. And it was still one apiece when the sides took the pitch for the second half. Ashleigh Jackson, who in the absence of Richard Mantell is GB’s main corner striker, put Great Britain ahead just after the restart, followed by a field goal by Niall Stott minutes later. Despite turning up the pressure, Great Britain were unable to find the net again and the score remained at 3-1.
As I said, a workmanlike performance, with nothing too much to cheer about or cause concern. Indeed, an almost predictable scoreline. Great Britain play Poland again at Bisham again tomorrow, but the atmosphere will not be the same.
Our photograph shows GB scorer Jonty Clarke on the attack.
GB WOMEN IN AUSTRALIA
Jo Ellis scored two first half goals to give GB a 2-0 win against SIS/SAS in Perth this afternoon (Friday). Unfortunately, due to injury Charlotte Craddock has had to withdraw from the squad and is being replaced by Kerry Williams. GB won their match against the Western Australia Institute of Sport on Wednesday, 2-1. The GB scorers were Kate Walsh and Helen Richardson
