Fareham take time to bed in new recruits

Work on the training ground is going to be paramount as Fareham look to bed their host of new players into National League Western Conference hockey.
Unlike at Oxford Hawks where they lost 5-2 with half their new recruits ineligible to play, Fareham were at full strength at Birmingham University – but still lost 3-0.
Those two defeats have left Fareham propping up the table ahead of Sunday’s visit to Henry Cort of Team Bath Buccaneers (1.30), and the following Saturday’s Havant derby.
“We created some really good chances with the new players coming in we were certainly stronger. But Birmingham are a good outfit and deserved to be 2-0 up at half time,” reflected Fareham head coach Ben Barnes.
“We were guilty of turning the ball over a bit too cheaply in the first half, needed a bit more composure in the circle as chances went begging.
“The second half we were much better on the ball but lacked end product, the connections between players will increase as we bed in the new guys.
“Final pass and closer support of the ball carrier needs to improve in the attacking third.
“We were better second half through the midfield but will need to work hard in training to develop a stronger understanding of the teams playing style.
“I’m confident we can achieve these things as the ability is there, we just need to connect it all together.”
Chances were at a premium during the Birmingham game, with the students converting one of only three penalty corners in the game.

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