Nathan Spectre
The first round of the BUCS western cup fixture saw UWE host Aberystwyth at Filton for the second time this year, with the visitors hoping to avenge their previous 36-1 loss at the hands of UWE.
The conditions were wet, windy and miserable to start the game, with both teams struggling on a tired looking Filton pitch. Ground-balls were difficult to acquire in this boggy mud bath, giving advantage to the visitors if anyone. UWE served the first blow to Aberystwyth, scoring early in the first quarter. The response was good from the visitors, who dealt a blow straight back to UWE, but the experience of a senior heavy squad paid dividends, with the hosts closing out the first quarter 4-1 to the good.
The second quarter saw conditions ease a little, cumulating in more flowing attacks from both teams. UWE’s experience showed through once again and the half ended 8-2 to the hosts, a massive improvement on Aberystwyth’s behalf, considering the 17-0 halftime score way back in October.
The second half saw UWE’s fitness show through as they scored 9 unanswered goals to end the game with a convincing 17-2 victory.
With the squad back to its full quartet after injuries due to the much needed Christmas break, UWE will head into the second round of the cup with much confidence to play Plymouth and look to avenge the loss earlier in the season.