Surbiton 5s 2-3 Ladies 1st XI
It was a drizzly January day, but we saw some sparky play that resulted in a win for the first week back after the Christmas break. We took control in the first 10 minutes – scoring twice in quick succession. The first goal started with a great run from Kate down the right – her cross was deflected in by Georgie. The 2nd goal followed quickly – coming up through the Middle from Heather and then Liz. The goalie kicked it and then Georgie got her second deflection.
The bouncy pitch caused 1 or 2 balls to go astray, and then Surbiton dug deep, picking up their play and scoring to make it 2-1 at half time. The second half started with 10 players on the pitch – not because someone has been sent off. Ali got confused and thought she was off the pitch – she was on the side line having a talk (a tactical one I’d add in my defense) with Georgie.
The third goal started off with some silky ‘Richie’ skills and a tidy goal to finish them off. There must be a mention to Sophie M – she received a back pass and as she went to stop the ball she slid over. It was a tense moment as she was the only defender between Surbiton and the Michelle in goal. But she managed to recover and switch play successfully. A great run from Richie followed – and it was another deflection that Georgie did not quite manage to put away – almost a hat trick for her! We were awarded a short corner – straight strike in from Richie – but it did not hit the backboard. A good call from the Umpire, Helen. She must have a shout out for stepping into this position a short notice. Thanks Helen! Another person we need to acknowledge is May – back in her hockey kit just 3 months after giving birth – what commitment!
Surbiton attacked, and a shot at goal was intercepted by Sophie H’s foot – so a penalty flick was awarded. Micelle was still getting ready when the flick was taken and after a ‘little discussion’ the flick was taken again. They scored making the final score 3-2.
3rd XI 6-1 Woking
Woking provided a good workout for the 3rd XI ahead of the resumption of the league season, and although they play in a league below us they caused us a few problems and tested our ability to break down sides. While the result was never in doubt, we had to work for the goals .