Result: Southgate 1 – 1 Eastcote
With less than 24 hours since the end of our previous game those of us who made our way to Ruislip did so with renewed determination after the disappointment of Saturday afternoon. Fixtures v Eastcote are always close and competitive and this one was no different.
In contrast to the day before we were the team under the cosh for the first ten minutes and it took all the skill and determination from our experienced back line combo of Kathy, Jo B, Kim, Jo P and Emma O to hold them back and steady the ship. It was very much a case of playing to the whistle with Laura brought into play early doors to make some key saves. It is fair to say that this was quite a tasty and physical encounter ….
The opposition defence initially employed the good old-fashioned tactic of hitting long, through balls with the forwards staying high in the hope of latching on to an easy goal-scoring opportunity. Once into our stride, we were able to counter with a more varied passing game which created several short corners and chances on goal but their defence stood firm and despite our concerted efforts we were not able to convert.
The game was now evenly matched, with both sides pressing hard in their attacking halves eventually leading to the first goal when a transfer across the back of the SG circle was intercepted by the Eastcote CF who neatly slotted the ball past Laura in a one-on-one. Spurred into action we pushed hard for the equaliser which eventually came courtesy of VBL who had positioned herself handily at the right post to deflect the ball past their excellent young keeper.
The second half produced more of the same with both sides searching for a winning goal. There was relentless running from our mids and forwards, Sarah was involved in end to end tackling and attacking as required and Mon, Sharon, Lynn and VBL all created chances to increase the score, For their part, Eastcote continued to drive forward and press us hard- winning several short corners – but solid defending from the visitors denied them any clear chances of a shot on goal with the match finishing in a draw.
A great effort from the the whole team but a particular shout out to all the people who played in both games this weekend. Top effort! WELOVEHOCKEY!
Next game West Herts 4 away on 30th October.