Won: 3-2

(match report by DOD Jessica Mak)

After a close promotion battle with Harrow last season (cut short by lockdown 1.0) a summer friendly with these two teams was undoubtedly going to be competitive….

The end-to-end game offered multiple green cards, ample short corners, 3 penalty flicks and many questionable tackles. 

Both sides were well matched in the first half, with Southgate showing off their excellent distribution from the back line, including returning player Rhi Hart and new comer Lily Freeman (also both securing joint ‘man of the match’). This play was supported by the fantastic midfield line, posting-up and creating some great chances. Eventually, after some impressive attacking play from the forward line and many short corners, Southgate managed to secure the (first) flick of the game. The newly married Jess Mak (Wickham) stepped up to the plate and created the lead for the mighty gate.

 The second half saw another goal for Southgate coming from a short corner. Zoe Griffiths hit a fantastic strike at the top of the D to Rhi Hart positioned on the P spot, deflecting the ball into the goal hitting the backboard immediately. 

Shortly after, Harrow converted a short corner of their own, to make the score 2-1.

After a period play and some great saves from Southgate’s Victoria Bishop-Laggett, Harrow were awarded a flick (the second of the game) but failed to equalise. Southgate were then awarded the (third & final) flick of the game, with Jess Mak once again scoring, protecting the lead.

The last 10 minutes of play saw Harrow score another goal from a short corner, but time was not on their side as the game finished 3-2 to Southgate. 

The team would like to wish Hattie Shrimpton a speedy recovery and thank Justin Edwards and Tony Shiret for umpiring. The team owe you a both a pint!