Result : Southgate 3 – 0 Canterbury

Match Report : Allan Dick

Southgate, after last week’s final minute defeat, got back to winning ways on Saturday with an impressive 3-0 over Canterbury.

‘Gate started strongly from the outset and put the home side under pressure and created early chances. While the chances started to mount up, Canterbury were able to defend very well, forcing shots from relatively safe spaces in the circle.

Southgate retained possession of the ball well throughout most of the first half, with quick passing moves developing from al areas of the field.

The deadlock was broken in the 7th minute of the second quarter when Lorna Cruickshank dived to connect with a cross-goal shot from Charlotte Childs.

Strangely, this seemed to kick start the home side as they started to try and get a foothold in the game. They put the team in red under more pressure, and began to create more chances of their own. Canterbury had two penalty corners awarded towards at end of the first half. Fortunately, the combination of goalkeeper Molly Smith and her defensive unit were able to shut down the threat and the half ended in favour of Southgate.

Throughout the second half Southgate continued to exert their authority on the game. It wasn’t until the fourth quarter however, that the visitors were able to feel more relaxed, firstly as Lorna Cruickshank grabbed her second, and finally, Elisa Filarmonico put even more distance between the two sides with a fantastic solo effort.

Canterbury had an attempt to come back into the game with another penalty corner that was successfully dealt with by Southgate’s defensive team.

All in all, it was a very good performance for the team that takes them up to second ace in the table. Next week, Southgate are back at home for the visit of Bromley and Beckenham HC at 14:00.