Both the RLC Ladies and Men’s Seniors Hockey teams claimed impressive victories in the Inter-Corps Indoor Hockey Championship to make The RLC double Indoor Champions, the first time both titles have been claimed by one Corps in the competition’s history.
The Ladies
With the ladies being undefeated in the group stages and claiming a dominant victory over the Royal Signals in the Semi Final, spirits were high.
However, the team knew they faced their toughest test yet in the final against the REME. Nevertheless, nerves remained steady and The RLC quickly claimed the lead with a short corner expertly flicked into the top corner by Capt Gemma Darrington, doubled minutes later by a fantastic team goal, swept into the back of the net by WO2 Scott-Baillie.
However the REME were not giving up easily, scoring a goal back, making it 2-1 at half time.
Despite being tired from two full days of match play, the team came out determined in the second half to leave everything on the pitch.
The ladies rose to the challenge and a winning attacking combination from Capt Darrington, Maj Cole and SSgt Katy White saw two more goals scored.
There was a nervy finish, with the REME scoring twice to make the score 4-3 in the final two minutes. Yet, The RLC team rallied around for one last defensive effort, finishing victorious. A fantastic team effort by all involved, the ladies claimed their forth indoor title in a row.
The Men
Having also won all their group matches, The RLC Men’s Seniors faced a tough test against the current Outdoor Champions the Infantry in the semi-final.
After a cautious start, The RLC took control with a cool finish from LCpl Bubnelis.
The Infantry were quick to level and it took a well-constructed goal from The RLC, which gave LCpl Bubnelis his second, to regain the advantage.
Excellent defensive work then followed to seal the victory and put The RLC Seniors in the final against the REME.
Boosted from having just seen the ladies take victory, it was now the men’s turn. The tournament finale was played at a high tempo and was a highly skilled match, with both teams having a great deal of talent on display.
Outstanding play at the back from LCpl Clarke and Capt Gates combined with smooth interlinking forward play from LCpl Bubnelis and Maj Tester which gave the Corps a 3-2 advantage going into half time.
The REME were quick to respond and an early goal in the second half re-applied the pressure onto The RLC.
Tireless work in the centre from SSgt Collins and a disciplined performance from the Capt, LCpl Clarke, led to conversion of two penalty flicks and propelled The RLC to a 7-3 margin over a strong REME side.
Overall, it was an enthralling final that kept spectators on the edge of their seat saw The RLC lift the Inter Corps Indoor trophy.
The RLC Hockey Club now hopes to continue this success into the outdoor league and the outdoor Inter-Corps championships in May 2018.
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