MATCH REPORT

Sutton travelled to Cambridge knowing that this would be the toughest away game of the season against the runaway league leaders. Having scored 19 goals in the first 2 games, defensive formation was key. This was to be a game dependent throughout on the midfield chasing back and the defenders playing out of their skins and so it turned out to be. South started with the obvious confidence of a team bang in form and within the first 5 minutes found themselves 1-0 up from a shot inches inside the D finding the corner of the goal with a shot that goalie Loraine Wallis admitted she didn't see!! The ladies could have folded at this point however they rallied and through determination and graft they battled on frustrating the South charges. Quick free hits and strong running from Hannah Baker and the forwards meant that the home side were kept honest but clear chances were hard to come by. Ultimately Cambs South scored another goal before half time with a repeated bullet shot which left Wallis little chance even if her foot hadn't got stuck in the astro! The teamwork has been superb every game and this was no exception. After a quick discussion about keeping formation and desire the second half began much the same as the first however Sutton showed that South can be pushed back into their own D but couldn't manage to turn the ball home for a deserved goal. Lisa Baker was outstanding at right back doing a great job of nullifying the threat from South's left and man of the match Maisie Sullivan came off the field with ball marks on her hands, arms and legs to go with a large bruise on her back after ducking away from a particularly dangerous shot. Sutton kept the short corner count low for the home team and this was key however they did score from one of these with a drag flick high into the top left as well as another shot from the edge late on. Cambridge committed players forward all afternoon with wave after wave of attacks but the Sutton team held strong in a real test of character. The midfield created space and chances and Hannah Baker, who is growing in confidence every week, played her part in the game with intelligent runs to give the defense breathing space. Onwards and upwards to next weeks battle against local rivals Spalding.