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.
