Scorer(s): P Harris 4, D Harris

Cannock started their much awaited campaign defence with a home match against a tough and sterling opposition in Beeston, who were the only team to take 3 points off Cannock through out the previous season.

The game started at a frantic pace with both sides creating opportunities but failing to score. The first major incident of the game occurred in the 15th minute when Cannock's keeper David Kettle made a good save at a penalty corner, the rebound fell to a Beeston player 10 yards out who sent a rasping shot towards goal which struck Kettle above his padding close to his throat. Due to the injury Kettle was taken to hospital to have his injuries assessed. Further concern was met when Kettle's skin was revealed and a ghostly white frame appeared.

Following the incident skipper David Wright took responsibility for the goal keeping duties and play resumed. Cannock started to take the upper hand and quickly scored 2 goals with both Harris brothers getting on the score sheet. Cannock looked comfortable but again conceded a sloppy goal despite the heroics that Wright was showing between the sticks. Cannock scored a 3rd goal through Paul Harris and with a tight defence and good goal keeping finished the half at 3-1.

The 2nd half began with Wright still commanding from the goal. However, during the half time break, the Beeston captain very kindly offered to allow Cannock to replace Wright with the 3rd team goal keeper who was watching the game.

Normal duty resumed with Wright back as an outfield player and Parker in goal. Cannock still impressed up front with the forwards creating chances with Tom Hyde looking very tricky. Cannock scored a 4th goal before conceding 2 poor goals leaving the score a 4-3 with 10 minutes to go.

Cannock finished off the afternoon with a well worked short corner routine to finish the game 5-3.

A fair performance to start the league campaign with much to be worked on in training. Good performances were shown by veteran Matthew Pritchard at the back and Phil Bailey showed how speedy he is on the left flank.

Cannock's next opponents are Barford Tigers, which will be a challenge as the team are without prolific talisman David Harris who is attending a show and workshop for the stage production of 'Brokeback Mountain'. All the best David in your budding acting career.