Slazenger’s 3’s made the journey to Ilkley side Ben Rydding for their final match of the season.

The first half saw Slazengers on top of their game with the midfield ensuring that the Ben rydding side only encroached the Slazengers half on a handful of occasions and when they did they caused no concern for the experienced slazengers defence. Despite Slazenger’s controlling they were unable to convert their possession into goals and a 0-0 scoreline was taking into the half time break.

The second half started off positively for Slazenger’s when a change around up front led to centre forward Justine Birkett slotting the ball past the keeper and onto the back board after a defiant run down the right by player of the match Ellie Paige. However Ben Rydding caught Slazengers off guard when their counter attack was finished off with a goal only moments later. Slazengers continued to show their dominance however were unable to change the scoreline and a 1-1 draw was held until the final whistle.

A frustrating end to Slazenger’s season in a game where they should have secured all 3 points. However that being said the team have had a good season overall finishing mid table.

Slazenger 3rds never recovered from a slow start which saw them concede three early goals as they lost 6-3 at Ben Rhydding 4ths in the Yorkshire League.

Three wins in four games had lifted Slazenger away from trouble near the foot of Division Five but they were not helped by two of their players going to the wrong venue and only arriving moments before kick-off.

The hosts were 3-0 up inside about 20 minutes before Claire Dunstan continued her recent scoring spree by pulling one back after a solo run.

Unfortunately for Slazenger, the comeback was shortlived as Ben Rhydding restored their three-goal cushion before the interval. Seventh-placed Slazenger were much better in the second half against a side just one place above them and Linda Stacey set up Dunstan for her second goal, only for the home side to reply again to make it 5-2.

Stacey pulled it back to 5-3 with a shot from a narrow angle that took a deflection into the net but Ben Rhydding had the final say to end the day’s scoring. Three players shared the man of the match voting for Slazenger – midfield duo Stacey and Frankie Tyrell and defender Sarah Ritchey for some excellent tackles in defence.

“Go Hard or Go Home”

Slazenger Ladies 3s faced Ben Rhydding, who are currently defending their top of the league position. Slaz started out hard, with 100% determination to defeat what they anticipated to be a strong team. Minutes into the game, it was clear all Slazenger’s players were in it to win it, giving Rhydding minimal chance to attack, and maintaining over 80% possession of the ball. Right midfielder and player of the match Alex Stead along with right wing Justine Birkett, demonstrated some quality hockey and great build-up of play into the D.

After uncountable shots on goal, missed opportunities and 3 short corners, Slaz just couldn’t get it round Rhydding’s strong keeper. Rhydding had a couple of breaks but nothing our strong defence of Sarah Ritchey, Donna Wood, Rachel Hughes and GK Lizzie Tunstsall couldn’t handle. Slaz continued to play with composure and created a number of good openings, including yet more shots on goal, but couldn’t convert. After some great short corner routines from Claire Dunstan, Frankie Tyrrell and Justine Birkett, an attempt at goal was saved by a Rhydding player on the line, resulting in a penalty flick. However, Slaz again were denied a goal as Frankie’s flick was saved by the Rhydding GK. Slaz were not to be deterred and continued to play outstanding hockey, leaving the first half the stronger side of the two.

The second half started fast with Ben Rhydding playing the sort of hockey that has got them to the top spot and Slaz struggled to gain back their earlier match intensity. Rhydding took advantage of a break in play and much to Slaz’s disappointment, scored the first goal of the game. Slaz continued with determination, a number of long passes down the pitch to new recruit Becky Townsend and former 3rd team captain Gemma Whittam, saw more opportunities for Slaz, including yet another penalty flick. Captain and central defender, Sarah Ritchey stood up in attempt to score her first goal of the season. Sarah tried her luck with an attempt at the top corner, but unfortunately the height wasn’t enough to beat the experience of the Rhydding GK. Rhydding had their moments leaving Lizzie Tunstall to make a number of testing saves. Slaz began to tire and they were no longer making the ball do the work, resulting in another goal conceded. Slaz gave their all in the final minutes of the match, but after another short corner in the final minute the game ended 3-0 Ben Rhydding.

By Frankie Tyrrell

Slaz won a hard fought game against Ben Rhydding 2-1. The home team were quick to attack, scoring first from captain and birthday girl Gemma Whittam.

However, Ben Rhydding fought back into the game, winning a short corner. This was converted to draw the game level. With a break to regroup at half time, Slaz came back out stronger, scoring the second goal within minutes of the restart. Claire Dunstan took the honours, slotting the ball home.

Slaz travel away to Brigg 2nds this weekend.