The L3s kicked off their season in division 4NW, after getting promoted last year, away to Newmarket 2s. As the team arrived early fully prepped and glammed to the max - yes, I am talking about my supersoft hair post-haircut before the game (if you want to know where I went, ask for the details and you can get 50% off your haircut) - we ran though short corners and the game’s strategy. We all eagerly warmed up to realise that we would not be getting as much pitch time as we had hoped for before we started due to the game before over running.

The first half began positively for the L3s with lots of good attacking and defensive play throughout the team. Both teams shared equal amounts of possession of the ball, moving up and down the pitch. There was some great play around the midfield from Lucie, Tabatha, Jasmine and Zara allowing the L3s to have a great chance on goal, forcing Newmarket’s goalie to make a save. Mid-way through the half Newmarket managed to get a sneaky goal from a short corner. Later Emma made a spectacular save in defence to stop Newmarket getting their second goal.

The half ended one-nil to Newmarket and the team optimistically went into the break feeling they had stepped up to the challenges of having a new team and a new league.

The second half continued similarly to the first. The L3s were quick to up their game, playing some very good passing hockey with the defensive team of Sarah, Charlotte, Laurie, Ani and Emma working nicely together to hold off Newmarket’s attack. Big shout out to Vicky who on her first appearance for the club made some incredible saves and could be heard from the back supporting the team and ensuring we picked up all the loose players. Newmarket managed to get a second goal, leaving the L3s determined to get something back. With some smooth play from the front three of Lauren, Emily and Rhi, the L3s managed to claw a goal back through Lauren. With ten minutes to go the L3s continued to push for a second and equalising goal but narrowly missed out on this.

Overall a great start for the newly modified team in a new, more difficult, league. MoM went to Emma for her great play in defence and save on the line. LoM went to Tabatha for slipping over on the pitch many times. A close second for Kath: yes, I tried to sell my hairdresser to the opposition in order to get a cheaper haircut. Also late mention to Rhi, who on arriving home thought she had left her keys at the Newmarket pitch only to find them shortly after; it’s a shame this didn’t happen before the MoM and LoM votes were counted.