After last week’s defeat in Intermediate Flags, Cheltenham were away again at Oxford University in the Semla Division 2 league.

The Cougars welcomed the return of Adam Green, Jon Green, Elliot May and Mike Halliwell back into the squad in this fixture and fielded a very strong side.

Oxford University were limited on the bench with some key players away.

The first quarter saw Oxford immediately in possession of the ball. Cheltenham, preciously working on slides and close marking, displayed their integrity causing Oxford difficulty in attack.

After a well drilled clear, Cheltenham were on the offence, patiently waiting for a chance to pounce and get into the lead. Adam Green deservedly got into a great position and put the cougars ahead.

After the goal was scored, Cheltenham were on the front foot, but gifted a goal to Oxford who took advantage of a error during a clear and equalised. This rose their momentum and found their main shooter to take advantage and put Oxford ahead by one goal at the end of the quarter.

Cheltenham felt that they could of done better and proceeded into the 2nd quarter with high momentum.

Another goal from Adam Green and an excellent solo goal from Elliot running from crease to crease, kept Cheltenham in the game.

Oxford responded with two goals of their own to keep Cheltenham behind by one goal going into the half.

A firm team talk by Captain Rhys Topping benefited Cougars as unnecessary penalties were given against them.

Going into the third quarter, Oxford had Cheltenham on the ropes by scoring two goals, taking full advantage of multiple man up situations against their opposition.

David Lennox, who ran non stop through the whole game, scored to keep Cheltenham in touching distance for a result.

Going into the final quarter, Cheltenham came back into the pitch with full momentum, with David Lennox deservedly scoring once more to be again a goal behind.

Oxford responded with a shot which rolled off Cheltenham’s goalkeeper and found its way into the net.

This did not deter Cheltenham, as they still had the momentum and desire to come away with a result. After a well needed time out, Adam Green completed his hat trick and Cheltenham were back in with minutes to go to find an equaliser.

Oxford tried running the clock down to see the game through, but the tireless effort from Cheltenham won the possession of the ball.

With moments to go, a patient attack play was rewarded with a last gasp equaliser by Dan Martin with much relief shown by Cheltenham and a high sense of disappointment for the home team.

The final whistle blew and Cheltenham carried their undefeated streak forward to face Bath in a much anticipated Cotswolds derby.

Final score Cheltenham 7-7 Oxford University

Man of the match: David Lennox - Consistently running, covering a vast amount of ground throughout the game and bagging two well deserved goals.

Match report: James Lloyd.