URMSTON Hockey Club opened their season this weekend with a series of friendlies.

On Saturday the Firsts won 3-1 against Buxton with goals from Ian Entwistle, Steve Ray and Eric Marston.

The seconds went down 4-2 to Mossley Hill after drawing until 6 minutes from time at 2-2 when tired legs came in confirming skipper Simon Fullelove's philosophy that fitness is a vital ingredient to success.

Norman Richmond scored the first goal from a new penalty corner routine followed by a penalty from old stager Derek Milne.

Derek was denied a second penalty goal by a stupendous save from the goalkeeper and could only look on in disbelief after the opposition umpire acknowledged the penalty effort as a good one, on target and destined for the corner of the goal.

The Thirds hung out for a 4-3 win after being up against Buxton Seconds with 2 goals from Ric Ray one from Captain Adrian Green and one from Steve Cutts.

On Sunday 4th Urmston members were assessed for their level one Umpires Award.

Derek Milne, Neil Hessing, Ian Entwistle and Peter Wragg in two matches.

In the ladies club match the Firsts defence and midfield with the Seconds' attack beat the reverse formation of the Firsts attack 3-2 with goals from Jennie Dixon 2, Janis Dugdale 1 and Alex Christie 2.

The mixed team in an exiting game with Chorley Brookfields yo-yo'd to and fro with the final score 5-5 Pete Wragg was on 4 and Ian Entwistle on 1.