Chard Hockey Club's third XI win friendly against ISCA

Playing their first game in three weeks, Chard's line-up included George Parris and Ian Waite, the latter of whom was making his first competitive appearance in several years.

Theo Pedder also made his debut at right back.

From the start, it was clear that Waite was in fine form, creating early opportunities for forwards Nathan Bradshaw and Alfie Baker-Pike with his clever passing.

Parris also impressed in midfield, using his long reach and composed approach to win back possession on multiple occasions.

With Chard dominating the early exchanges, it was no surprise when they took the lead in the ninth minute.

Waite, the target at a penalty corner, feigned to shoot a couple of times before firing a fierce shot into the far corner of the net.

Chard could have been further ahead at half-time, but the acrobatics of the ISCA keeper kept them at bay.

A diving save thwarted one effort that seemed destined for the net, and a point-blank double save, using his helmet, denied Chard's forwards and kept out the follow-up flick.

Waite also had another shot just wide of the goal, and a Gary Wheaton effort went narrowly wide.

The lead was doubled eight minutes into the second half.

Another penalty corner from Elliot Webb saw Waite slip a pass rather than shoot, Wheaton swept the ball just wide of the post, but Webb was in the right place to steer it into the net.

With a two-goal cushion, Chard played with confidence and created more chances.

However, the ISCA keeper's agility kept them at bay, with Nathan Bradshaw particularly unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.

As the match progressed, Chard had to contend with the sinking sun in their eyes, but keeper Tony Millet and the defence held firm in the face of ISCA's young forward line until the final minute when a skilful solo run saw the visitors grab a consolation goal.

Paul Sainsbury also deserves a mention for a fine performance in midfield, supporting Waite's masterclass in ball distribution.

The club thanked umpires Claire Winter and Trevor Goss for their efforts.

The Chard squad for the match was Millet, N Parris, S Mahoney, Webb, Pedder, captain Wheaton, Waite, Sainsbury, A Cheffey, G Parris, Bradshaw, Baker-Pike, and N Green.