News

Whitchurch HC Ladies 2s v. Swansea University 1s Match Report

3rd October 2015

Saints 2s played host to Swansea University 1s in their second Premier 2 game of the season, who finished ahead of the 2s last season. 

Given the changes seen each year in university sides it was difficult to gauge how tough an encounter this would be. Swansea started strongly with a good possession game and quick passing. In response Saints stepped up to the same tempo and started to play their own style of hockey. 

The first half saw end-to-end play, but with great defensive and attacking play from Saints, starting from Liv Laxton at the back. Saints were awarded a number of short corners but to no avail. However, now feeling that they were getting on top in possession, Saints continued to pressure the Swansea keeper and during a goal-mouth scramble managed to get the ball in the net. 

Saints appeared to have doubled their lead when Gwen Nicol had the ball over the Swansea goal-line, but due to bodies in the way could not award a goal. 1-0 at half-time. 

Buoyed by an influx of subs and fresh legs at half-time Saints continued to mount attacks. Cat Fenton and Lorien Waterer were given space in midfield to transfer the ball to Katie and debutant Charlie Brown on the flanks, who then hooked up well with attackers Gwen and Menna Poole. A total of 3 goals were scored in the second half, one notable goal from a well-placed pass from Lorien to Menna, who coolly went round the Swansea keeper. Saints could have added more to this tally, and conversely could also have allowed Swansea to score, but great defending by Liz Wakeling (prior to a nasty injury; get well soon), Kate "Ginge" Nicholson, Vikki Stroud and Jude Livesey kept them at bay. 

Final score 4-0 with all 4 forward players getting on the scoresheet. Saints will be pleased with the progress made in just two league games and are now second in the league, but a club derby against Saints 3s this Saturday will prove to be a tough challenge. 

MOTD: Gwen Nicol

DOTD: Vikki Stroud (for nearly taking the umpire's head off with a wayward stick!)

SCORERS: Gwen Nicol, Meg Atkins, Menna Poole, Amy Bowen