MATCH REPORT

he last match on the old astro for these ladies. The pitch that has seen most of them through their hockey careers. With that thought, hopes were high even without the injured Tania White and absent Gemma Parr. Saffron Walden are looking at another promotion this year and started the game the better. A change in formation was ultimately the difference as Saffron Walden scored the two goals of the game during this period. The first was from a short corner which wasn't cleared by the defense allowing an easy prod home. The second was an unstoppable shot from the opposition from the top of the D. Both goals within 5 minutes of each other. 15 minutes in and it could have really got away from Sutton; however, they all dug deep to change the momentum of the game. A formation change was key, with MOM, Jo Bland slotting into the back four resulting in a more settled period of play with Sutton absorbing the pressure posed by the opposition. Lorrraine Wallis was also on form, making numerous saves keeping Sutton in the game. Following a well needed team talk at half time, Sutton came out of the blocks to show Saffron Walden, the game wasn't over. Slick passing between the midfields and forwards led to a shot straight from the restart, unfortunately it went wide. Saffron Walden stayed in the game, but the half was largely Long Sutton's with the defense breaking up SW's attacks constant penetration of the 23 and D without success. A goal would have turned the tide but their defense held firm. Late on Jess Burton, who was having an inspired second half at right back, was hit on the hand by a dangerously rising ball and had to leave the field as Sutton again defended with passion. Whilst the game ended 0-2; a solid 2nd half performance should give the team confidence going into next week. The ladies have been playing the top teams so far this season and have matched them for long periods and could easily have won a couple more. Captain Jo Bland led the team with a top-drawer performance and the team followed her example. It's easy to forget that over half the team are U18 and are learning their craft. They showed today that they were equal to another top team when playing well and they are confident that next week will see the assured and skillful performance they are capable of.