SHC M2 Denied a Win Despite Epic 2nd-Half Comeback in Thrilling 4-3 Defeat to Hull M4

Introduction
SHC Men’s 2nd XI travelled to Hull M4, with both teams battling for crucial points in an increasingly tight league title race. Disruptions from the New Year’s bad weather led to fixture rescheduling, clashing with pre-booked half-term holidays and leaving both squads with reshuffled line-ups.

First Half Overview
Hull started at a relentless pace, piling on early pressure and converting a penalty corner within the opening three minutes. Both teams fought hard to gain control, but Scarborough struggled to connect all the pieces of their attacking play to create clear chances. A well-executed counterattack from Hull doubled their lead before the break, leaving SHC with an uphill task going into the second half.

Second Half Overview
Scarborough regrouped at half-time, refocusing on moving as a united team in both attack and defence. However, Hull capitalised on two overload situations to stretch their lead to 4-0. With 20 minutes remaining, SHC found their rhythm and turned the tide - Will Ward reacting first to fire home a deflected effort off the post from a penalty corner. Sensing a comeback, Scarborough piled on the pressure, and a well-placed drag flick from captain Chris Tait made it 4-2. With just six minutes to go, another penalty corner saw Reuben Elliott fire low into the net, bringing the score to 4-3. Cheered on by the travelling supporters, Scarborough threw everything forward, dominating the closing stages. However, time ran out before they could find the equaliser, as Hull held on for the win.

Conclusion
Despite the defeat, SHC M2 remain firmly in the title race, though they now sit in second place following this weekend’s results. Next up is a vital away fixture against Brigg M3, who are just two points behind in the standings. The biggest positives of the day were the team's resilience in an unfamiliar position and the effort and enthusiasm shown by the younger squad members.

Player of the Match: Will Atkinson, for his tireless work up and down the wings - this young player continues to improve week by week.