In a complete contrast to last week’s game, it quite frankly felt freezing having the pre-match discussion this week.

After much conversation about how many people had now ordered matching South fleeces, and Kat continuing to model hers for anyone who needed a visual, we headed on to the pitch.

The first half was pressure from both sides. The defence line held strong with some storming communication and clearance from PoM Hannah in centre back. There was some super delivery from Louisa in centre-mid through to the wings and forwards, with our forwards putting their defence under pressure on every defensive free hit.

We were quite impressed with ourselves at half time and went into the second half hoping for an early goal. Turns out City were hoping for the same and slammed one in within five minutes (TBF to them, it was a good goal). At some point LoM, new Niamh K, tried to take the goalie out. Jess B picked the ball up with her hand and some time was spent fetching a new one. Kath did a beautiful cross to Anna and even though it wasn’t quite a goal, it was a lovely bit of hockey to watch.

The defence were put under pressure for what felt like forever and another two goals were scored.

The final whistle blew as a short was called. Which turned into three shorts… Their whole team surrounded the D and we braced ourselves. Jess took the first one for the team, sacrificing her toe. Hannah took the second, also sacrificing a toe and returned to the back line, whooping with her achievement, and finally – third time lucky – we cleared it. Phew.

Despite the score, it was an enjoyable game and we took a lot away from it. We really missed the Cantabs’ fire and a cup of tea to warm up this week, though.