Game 1 vs The Wykeham Collegiate (TWC) – Lost 4-2
Our opening match was an extremely tough and a disappointing start to the tournament. We lacked cohesion, struggling to communicate effectively and execute our structure. Our passing game—usually one of our strengths—was almost non-existent, and we failed to string together three consecutive passes. Our movement off the ball was static, decision-making was rushed, and we looked like a group of individuals rather than a team. It was a harsh reality check as everything that could have gone wrong, did.
Game 2 vs Witteberg – Lost 4-1
Unfortunately, game two followed a similar pattern. We looked scattered, lacking confidence in our own abilities and trust in the system. Self-belief was missing, and hesitation crept into our play. Basic errors and poor decision making cost us the game .We left the field not just beaten on the scoreboard but mentally defeated. The performance was not a reflection of our potential, and we knew we needed a serious wake-up call.
Game 3 vs Oranje Meisieskool 2 (OMS2) – Lost 1-0
After two difficult results and a harsh team talk, the first team made a collective decision to shift their mindset. We needed to find our “spirit “ again. Instead of making excuses, we took ownership of our mistakes, analyzing where we went wrong and how we could improve. The energy in our warm-up was different—we were determined to turn things around. While we were still far from perfect, we showed phases of the hockey we know we are capable of. Our defensive structure held firm, we started linking better in midfield and there was a renewed hunger in our play. Slowly but surely, we were beginning to look like ‘Union’ again.
Game 4 vs St Dominic’s – Drew 1-1
Our final game of the tournament was a major step in the right direction. We rediscovered our team identity, playing with intensity, purpose, and a fighting spirit that had been missing in earlier matches. We found our rhythm, improved our passing accuracy, and showed composure under pressure. Our defensive unit absorbed pressure brilliantly, our midfielders connected well with the strikers, and we created dangerous attacking opportunities. The result may have been a draw, but the performance was a victory in itself.
Bethlehem has always been a tough tournament and while we didn’t get the results we wanted, we take valuable lessons forward. We are not yet where we need to be but we showed resilience and phases of high-performance hockey. The road ahead is long, but we are committed to the process. Now, it’s time to regroup, sharpen our Tactics and prepare for the challenges ahead—starting with Pearson this weekend.
Under 14 results
Vs Witteberg won 2-1
Vs Eunice lost 2-0
Vs OMS lost 6-0
Vs Menlopark lost 3-0
