Slazenger Ladies 3rd’s hockey team played Doncaster at home . Both teams were quiteevenly matched which resulted in a really enjoyable end to end hockey match for players & spectators alike.Slazengers had a bit of a reshuffle & pulled Heather Bates back to assist the usual defensive duo of Julie Finch & Karen Bates. This proved to be a good decision as all three were tested repeatedly in the first ten minutes. Slazengers then settled into some great hockey, Beccy Stafford & player of the match Millie Crowther linked up particularly well down the right of the pitch making some really good breaks.
The first real attempt on goal for Slazengers came from a great shot from Zoe Bacon who was unlucky to be denied by the post. Doncaster made a quick break down the right in numbers, Slazengers clearance was picked up by Doncaster & converted for the first goal of the game.
Slazengers were quick to reply, Lauren Fealy picking out Julie Bacon in midfield, who linked up Well with Beccy Stafford . Sally Thornton timed her run to perfection to the far post & converted the pass from Beccy for the equaliser. Both teams were keen to be the next on the score sheet, keeper Chloe Bates was called upon to make some good saves along with team captain Julie Finch. Doncaster then managed to break down the Slazenger defense & scored a second just before half time.The second half was again very evenly balanced; Slazengers held their shape well & moved the ball around midfield well. Defender Karen Bates, with the support of Kate Durrans, twice found herself in uncharted territory of the attacking half but failed to breakdown the Doncaster defense.
The play was end to end but no further goals were scored & the result remained at 2-1 to Doncaster.
Played at Doncaster Hockey Club on 20th November 2010
