L1s vs GHK Hockey Club Ladies 2

The first game of the season vs GHK was always going to be a tough start - a large club with lots of youth makes for a fast paced first game back. Unfortunately only being able to garner a team of 12 (despite the large training group) we knew we were in for a real fitness test of a first outing.

We started strong, scoring 2 well worked goals in the first quarter. The first a good ball across the face of the goal from the baseline, with Kirsty Owen in an excellent position to tap it home. The second goal came from Gabrielle Clark from a short corner piece. Heads were high as we went in for the quarter break chat. GHK came out fighting in the second quarter, with possession and a number of circle breaks they got their reward and slotted one in.

The first half ends with FAL 2-1 ahead. Unfortunately, a high ball towards goal during a short corner results in our only sub having to retire from the game early. This lack of fresh legs and fatigue setting in leads to a somewhat disastrous 3rd quarter, with our press and structure falling apart and GHK dominating on this, securing a further 3 goals in the space of the quarter. Despite this setback, the girls manage to keep fighting for themselves and each other and complete a number of circle entries, leading to a penalty flick being awarded. Kirsty Owen calmly stepped up and slams our third goal into the backboard. The final quarter remains well matched and on another day, with more bodies, a draw or win could definitely have been on the cards. Final score 4-3 win to GHK

Lots of positives to take away from the first game back, the ladies can hold their heads high and we move on to next week with a fire in our bellies to get the outcome we deserve from our efforts. A few extra subs would be much appreciated as there are a fair few bruised and tired bodies heading to training on Tuesday.

🏆 POTM - Jo Beedie