by Lucy Sheffield
The W2s, approaching their first season in the conference, headed off to Beeston for their second weekend of preseason hockey. With a few girls opting to go down on Friday for a bit of bonding time, the rest joined for our first game at 1pm on Saturday against Wakefield. With a couple of lurking illnesses and availability issues, we walked into the first game with a grand total of 11 players, ready to set up a defensive wall and park the bus. However, the silky skills of Caitlin led to an early deflection from Freya. Suddenly we were 4-0 up, and had managed to procure two new additions to the southgate W2s (welcome Sophie F and Ava S) fresh from a school game at Mill Hill. Goals from Caitlin, Freya and Jennie.
A quick break between our first and second fixture involved a full pizza and chips moment for GK Miriam (she had regrets). A tighter game, the gals drew 2-2 with Nottingham uni 2s/3s. Goals from Caitlin and Genevieve.
The evening was then in full swing with champagne and steak to celebrate Erin’s 18th birthday (and a special mention to Millie for turning 18 the day before). Portia led the juniors in an abba singalong, and the 2s set the tone for what is sure to be a season of great festivity, as well as lots of excellent hockey.
Day two we were joined by Ellie H, Millie and Martina B to help manage the aching legs. The first fixture (9am vs York) was a thrilling 0-0 draw, which Miriam pointed out was a strong performance as York never entered our D.
Game 4, our final fixture, was a game against Bedford. Last season we’d lost to them in a preseason game, so it felt good to get revenge in a 1-0 win (goal by Jennie).
A fabulous weekend was had by all, with great hockey, team bonding, and a number of players (especially juniors) getting their first taste of national league hockey. We’re so excited for the season to come, and winning our division at the tournament was a great way to start. Special mention to Sophie F for MOM of the tournament on debut, Adam for his constant support (and obsession with the press) and for everyone for making the weekend such a success.