Match Report : Kathy Hammond

Result : LOSS 2-4 vs West Hampstead

The squad travelled to Brent Cross second in the table with just six games remaining, but were stunned by an early goal from fifth-placed West Hampstead. Nevertheless, the team held firm and bounced back thanks to some solid saves and clearances from ‘keeper Erin, restoring confidence at the back as Jo and Rowey snuffed out any attack through the centre of the park.

Soon on the front foot again as Niamh distributed well from CM up to Bhu, Olive and Amba on the forward line, it was after a real scrap in front of goal that youngster Lucille despatched the ball firmly onto the backboard to bring us level.

Heading into half time coach Magda decided to keep our three-in-midfield formation to avoid congestion creeping into the centre of the pitch and reminded us to keep the width.

Going back out we played some beautiful passing hockey with our wing backs Rhi, Sum Sze and captain Megan all linking up beautifully with wide midfielders Zoe, Helena and Lucille to bring the ball out of defence. And Lara, the youngest player on the field and making her 4s debut, took Magda’s instruction well as she played out of position up front to harry the W Hampstead defence.

Conceding a very disappointing and unfortunate goal as fouls in the D were missed, was a bitter pill to swallow. And with the score at 2-1 we found it hard to keep our heads up and went down two more in quick succession.

We were not over-and-out just yet however and rallied to win more short corners and tear holes in the WH defence to give Zoe a late consolation and see us finish the game with a 4-2 defeat.

Our woman of the week was Rowey who bagged half the team’s votes for her always-positive and composed performance at CB. There were votes too for her partner at the back Jo as well Lucille, Zoe and Niamh in midfield.

We go again v Ealing at home on March 5. Come on 4s!