22nd February 2010
Whitchurch draw 1-1 with visitors Guildford in closely-contested EHL encounter
Both sides struggled to create openings in an even first half against well-organised defences, though Whitchurch missed a penalty corner chance early on. Midway through the half a forceful run by Mark Whatling earned the first of three penalty corners in quick succession, but they were well defended by goalkeeper Simon Mason and the Guildford defence. Guildford enjoyed good possession and were neat in their build-up but their final ball failed to pierce the Whitchurch defence, well-marshalled by Jonny Gordon and Alex Keating. Whitchurch keeper Iwan Williams was quick to move off his line to smother a dangerous Guildford attack early in the second period and the visitors failed to take advantage of their first penalty corner opportunity minutes later. The deadlock was broken by Whitchurch fifteen minutes into the half. A strong break out of defence down the right led to Laith El Khatib crossing for Jonny Gordon to earn a penalty corner, well despatched by Mark Whatling to put Whitchurch 1-0 up. The lead, though, lasted just seven minutes, William Blockley firing home from a penalty corner to earn Guildford a share of the points.
