The visitors caught the home side napping scoring three goals in the first five minutes of the match; two from penalty corners and one field goal. This was the wake up call needed, causing Ely to rally and begin to gain some possession.

The home side gained a number of short corners in the first half but no goals came as many a chance was squandered including a sitter at the back post. Ely were starting to find their rhythm and pulled one back before the stroke of half-time, with a fluent series of well strung passes bringing the score to 3-1 at half time.

Lengthy discussions and half-time oranges brought the home side out of the break with a plan. Ely quickly started to reduce the deficit with second half goals from Michael, Warren and two from Marc. Warren Dennis forcing the keeper to give away a penalty flick as he took the ball round him. Much cringing and bewilderment crossed the faces of the players as Warren stepped forward to take the penalty flick due to his previous track record, the flick however was confidently dispatched.

Cambridge still had some chances to get back into the game but the back four held strong. The last word was put in by right back Sam, with a reverse stick effort that glanced the side of the post. Debutant performances from new Neil Grover and Rowan Taylor, who showed promise for the coming season... and a welcome return from Ian Grange in goal.