Ladies 1s Match reports

Anchs 3-2 Burnt Ash

Anchs Ladies 1s played a friendly today against a Burnt Ash team who will be playing a league above next season. The first half Anchs were clearly still finding their footing as the visitors overwhelmed them a number of times and took the lead after a shot from the edge of the D took a vicious deflection past Herbie.

There were flashes of what we were capable of, as Anchs looked dangerous every time they were in the D and won a string of short corners, including one cleared well off the line.

Ash were the deserving leaders at half time, but Anchs were starting to knock at the door. A good half time talk saw us determined to play more of our own hockey although there was a bump in the road very early in the second period when the visitors converted a (slightly harsh) P-flick.

But the Anchs girls pushed back hard and, using the wings more, working hard off the ball and switching play quicker and better, they were a threat every time they went forward.

The first Anchs goal came from a broken down short, when Meg picked a clearance up outside the area, dribbled in and slotted just inside the right post. The second goal hit the backboard in almost exactly the same spot when Emma smashed home a straight strike on her debut.

The Burnt Ash attack started to lose some of its sting as they found it harder to get out their own area and with a couple of injuries to defenders, the Anchs back line did well to hold them out and some last ditch tackles were well needed.

The comeback was completed when a free hit on the half way line was taken quickly and played right to Jess making a beautiful run into space. Her first shot was blocked by the keeper, but she took the rebound round her and lifted into the far side of the goal.

Final score 3-2 against a team now a league above us. Great fight to come from behind to steal the win. Lots to work on but lots to feel positive about too.

Thanks to Richard for umpiring, Keith for nearly umpiring and the fantastic support we had on the sideline!