Having battered Newcastle Ladies 10-0 away, Slaz were hoping for similar success in their first year in the Northern League Div 2 (east). However, this time it was not going to be as easy, with a fast paced game ultimately ending 3-3.
With the squad back to full strength, Slaz started off well; looking to put last weeks loss to rest.
The team took control of the game, with an early opening goal from Captain Helen Hough. This was followed up by Jessica Rudge. However, Newcastle were not going to let the home team have it their way, and fought their way back into the game, controlling the ball and slotting home their first.
At the back, Man of the Match Sarah Hobbs drove well into space, and creating some excellent distribution. Alongside Donna Simpson, Kelly Whittam and Heather Bates, Slaz formed a strong defence, stifling the opposition attack.
After the break, Newcastle put a second in, against the run of play, though appeared to pick up momentum. Slaz had several attacking shots on goal by Jessica Rudge and Sarah Cooper, but struggled to score a third. Newcastle continued to be dangerous and picked up their third, taking the lead.
Slaz continued to fight, and scored a third to equalise; Jessica Rudge getting the brace.
Special mention goes to Claire Mills for picking up her first green card for aparently pushing the opposition. No-body saw it, and she was truly gutted; and resulting in her picking up “tart of the match”!
