Stokesley M2 vs Newcastle M2 (H) - 1-3 (L)

Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026

MOM: Matt Hibbert

Goals: S Pennington

Stokesley’s 2s continued their preparations for the upcoming season under new captain Kenny O’Connor with a positive performance against strong opposition from a division above. With a new-look squad taking shape, the match provided a useful test of where the side currently stands ahead of the opening fixture.

The initial signs were encouraging. Stokesley competed well and showed that they were capable of matching Newcastle for significant periods, controlling possession and producing several sustained spells of effective hockey.

Newcastle eventually broke the deadlock in the second quarter. A poorly placed pass inside the Stokesley D presented their forward with an opportunity that was duly converted. A moment of pre-season rustiness, but one that Stokesley responded to almost immediately.

The equaliser was the product of some excellent team hockey. Slick passing allowed Stokesley to move the ball rapidly from one D to the other before the move was eventually finished by Sam Pennington, bringing the scores level.

Newcastle then demonstrated why they compete at a higher level, putting Stokesley under sustained pressure during a dominant spell. A barrage of short corners followed, with two being converted by excellent drag flicks to give Newcastle a 3–1 advantage.

Despite the deficit, Stokesley finished the match strongly. The final quarter produced some of the best hockey of the afternoon, with the 2s showing greater composure and attacking intent and continuing to compete until the final whistle.

That late performance was particularly encouraging given the lessons of last season, when the final stages of matches often proved costly. On this occasion, Stokesley showed the resilience to finish the game on the front foot.

The match finished Stokesley 1–3 Newcastle, but the result perhaps does not fully reflect the encouraging performance from the 2s. Against a strong side from the division above, there were plenty of positive signs and evidence that this new-look team is beginning to develop.

With the pre-season friendlies now complete, the focus turns to the opening of the season. If Stokesley can build on the quality shown in spells today, there is plenty of reason for the 2s to approach the new campaign with confidence.

Next game: County Cup