The temperature had plummeted since last week’s tropical work out, and the rain lashed down shortly after push back, but the L5s were feeling optimistic after a great start to the season with three friendly victories under our belts.

Respect goes to Annabel who not only stepped up to play in goal, but did so without all the right kit [Ed - what is missing? Please let someone on the committee know ASAP so we can make sure it's complete for the next match!]. She did a superb job, with several excellent saves, earning herself Player of the Match. Annabel wasn’t the only one starting without the right kit: Fi managed to start the game without her shin pads, earning her Lemon of the Match!

From the first, the pressure was on Haverhill and most of the action was in their half, and a lot in their D. The L5s had a few chances and were very effective at setting the press on the Haverhill 16s, keeping up the pressure. This eventually paid off with a joint goal – Sarah and Polly both got their sticks to the ball – though Polly graciously gave Sarah the credit. The other forwards Kea and Susanna, playing her debut for the L5s, also kept up the pressure and Kea had several great runs up the right wing.

The L5s defence was very strong with Rebecca, Shree and Rosie keeping the ball away from the goal, and there were several impressive runs from Ann in midfield and great energy from Claudia. The Haverhill goal, when it came, was very unlucky (aren’t they all!) Their striker was able to take advantage of confusion over a hit out to get the ball to the goal and, despite Rosie’s heroic efforts diving into the goal to save it, the ball crossed the line. The first half appeared to end twice, with one umpire blowing the whistle about five minutes before she should, to the confusion of the other umpire! It gave us a brief break at least…

The second half continued in the same vein, with several more chances but unable to convert into a winning goal. There was great passing play and some excellent runs. The Haverhill team were tiring (that’s what you get if you double up your first team players, as Jan predicted – no subs to give you a breather). We were disappointed not to get the victory we felt we deserved, but it was a great battle and some superb team play that bodes well for the rest of the season. Onwards and upwards for St Ives next week, and fingers crossed for slightly better weather…