Ben Rhydding 1 Doncaster 4

Ambitious Doncaster displayed the qualities that they hope will take them back to the National League in a game of outstand-ing hockey.

Rhydding had the upper hand in the opening ten minutes and were unlucky not to score.

The game began to even out from then on but Doncaster were more active in seeking corners when they entered the circle.

Goalkeeper Sam Robbins made two great saves but the third one was not cleared off his pads quickly enough and Doncaster were able to pop in the rebound.

Rhydding then had a spell of solid possession.

Andrew Clemerson and Connor Dowley patiently stroked the ball around the back, bouncing it in and out to Neil Sugden and Kieran Borrett who worked tirelessly to find passing lanes.

Relentless movement from Josh Sykes and Elliot Dowley kept the Doncaster midfield unsettled and when they got on the ball they showed strong elimination skills.

George Sweeting connected with some good power balls from Connor Dowley and was a constant nuisance to the Doncaster full backs.

However, a loose ball falling to Doncaster’s ex- Olympian just before half time allowed him to score a soft goal.

Rhydding came out hard and played in the front half of the pitch for the first ten minutes after the break but Doncaster then got back in the game Robbins made a great save to deny a lethal reverse shot and tight marking at the back meant such chances were few and far between for Doncaster.

Both teams continued to build the play well but also defended effectively so circle entries were rare.

A fast break after a turn over saw Doncaster stretch their lead with a deflection past the keeper.

Heads dipped a little and Rhydding lost their shape.

Doncaster got out of an unconvincing Rhydding press and arrived with a 3v1 in the D. A goal was the inevitable outcome.

A late consolation goal lifted spirits. George Sweeting got a touch for a great deflection into the roof of the net.

Doncaster readily admitted that the score flattered them.

It was a brilliant game fought out by two accomplished sides and Rhydding should feel encouraged by their latest display.

They still have the best defensive record in the league so far, having conceded only five times. They travel to Whitley Bay for a six pointer.