Blip in the road for ladies 4s - 15.11.2014

PHC Chiswick Ladies 4s v Hampstead and Westminster Ladies 6s

Going into Saturday’s match the ladies 4s knew they were in for a tough one, historically Hampstead and Westminster have proved difficult opposition and this week was no different. Right from the first push back the ladies felt the pressure of the strong opposition, with each pass closed in on and little time to make decisions on the ball, to win Chiswick knew they had to play their socks off. With a sub in each line, Chiswick did have the luxury of fresh legs but this proved to not quite be enough.

While Chiswick had a few opportunities early on, and even a penalty corner, it wasn’t to be and the first goal came from Hampstead and Westminster. A brilliant strike from the top with a nicely angled deflection had the defence and keeper beat. The ladies in blue kept positive at the restart, and made several attacking drives into the opposition’s D. Kate Cato made a great attacking play, coming into the circle from the right, and finding a foot, with advantage being played Stacey Nevin scooped up a saved shot for another shot on goal, unfortunately it crossed the line moments after the umpire signalled for a penalty corner. Another unsuccessful corner ended the half and the ladies remained 1-0 down.

The half time chat focused on keeping composure, making the use of the subs, and retaining possession. While the ladies 4s achieved this they still found themselves on the back foot. Hampstead and Westminster had a break away, and while Alice Taylor-Bennett managed to save the first shot with an impressive dive, she was beaten with a flick shot. The third and final blow for Chiswick was delivered soon after, the opposition crowded the D and while the girls in blue held and made some impressive saves, the oppo found the backboard once more.

Chiswick kept their heads held high, and remained fighting until the end, but with the final whistle there was nothing left to do but accept the loss, look forward to a positive training session and prepare for the rematch later in the season!

Final score: PHC Chiswick Ladies 4s - 3, Hampstead and Westminster Ladies 6s - 0

MOM: Alice Taylor-Bennett for some brilliant saves under pressure
DOD: Gemma Mcintosh for overzealous and high volume penalty corner calls