Injury stricken Slaz were not looking forward to their first match without Sarah Hobbs but nevertheless started the game in a very structured way. Strong committed work in midfield and excellent distribution soon led to the first goal being scored by Slaz from a short corner, Jessica Rudge finding the back of the net.  The Uni team were clearly unsettled by this first goal and despite being cheered on by a man with a full fox fur around his neck were unable to find an immediate reply. They were ably contained by a buoyant Slaz team until near the end of the first half when the home team seemed to be distracted by another tweed suited supporter’s moustache and allowed Durham to level the score to make half time scores even.
 
After the team talk Slaz came out fighting again and soon had the lead when a perfectly placed ball from Laura Teasdale was tipped in by the Poacher Rudge for her second goal. The Uni side put everything they had into attacking but were constantly denied with some great strength down both channels from both newcomer Katie Browne and player of the match (and birthday girl) Sue Hope. With some great support from the Slaz men on the sideline, the ladies 1sts stayed strong to earn a well deserved 2-1 win and maintain their mid-table position.
 
Next week we ask for all the support possible as we face Huddersfield Dragons at home at 1.30pm.

Slazenger travelled to Durham University, where they faced a tough encounter with the top of the league team. Unfortunately, even with an impressive team performance, the came away 4-3 reversal.

The opening 15 mins were balanced, with some strong attacking play from both sides, however Durham were the first to score. A series of fluid passes broke through the Slazenger ranks, leading to a close range shot on goal: 1-0

The visitors immediately went on the offensive, pressuring hard against the Durham defence. However, Durham were able to break after a severe pressure, making making it 2-0 within the 25 mins.

Ailish Hendry retaliated minutes later; a superb shot from the very edge of the D went into the top corner of the netting to bring slaz back into the game at 2-1.

However after the break, it was the same story. After slaz opened strongly, another break allowed durham to put away their 3rd gaol for 3-1 around 45mins. Shortly after, Durham attempted to close out the game with a fourth; a cross from the right winger was put away at the back post by a waiting player to make it 4-1 at 50mins.

However, slaz dug deep, scoring 2 in response within minutes. The first from a short corner routine, burried in the bottom corner. The second from Laura Teasdale – following up an initial shot which was saved by the keeper, and lifting the ball over the keeper on the floor and into the bottom corner.

Slaz continued to press, but an equaliser proved illusive. While the scoreline mark 65mins 4-3 final score