Once again, more players than places available for the eager L6s this weekend. Fortunately our star fixtures secretary Jan, and Peterborough 4ths, came to the rescue ensuring a game for everybody (and two for some!). A big thank you to everyone who was flexible in making sure that this L6Xtras fixture could happen.

We welcomed two more new players to the team – Mairead Ryan in midfield, and Pallavi Rishi in defense, playing her first ever hockey match. It was also a welcome back to Juliette Stoop, playing her first match this season after being a prolific goalscorer last season.

Peterborough was a strong opposition but South rose to the challenge. Like in the previous game, good efforts were made on man marking but our opposition capitalised on any slip ups. Annabel made lots of great saves with some really well timed kicks out. Harriet Stanley was strong in midfield, distributing strong and accurate passes to the midfield. Hannah Price had a busy game in defense, making lots of well-timed tackles.

South managed a goal in the second half with some great team play. Some lovely triangular passing movement culminated in Isla making a fantastic cross to Juliette who deflected it in on the left post.

Midfielders Mairead and Wilma both played really well, with strong drives down the line and holding their positions to maintain South’s width. Kea Haw did a great job in midfield, despite being asked to play more defensively than her preferred position in our attack-heavy team. Including coming back for short corners and bravely running one towards the big-hitting opposition forward. South’s positioning went slightly askew in the second half but the energy and enthusiasm never dropped. After a great game up front in the first half, Emily generously dropped back to play in defense, where her power hit outs were valuable.

There were enough lemon-worthy moments to fill a fruit bowl. Pallavi subbed on carrying her water bottle after half time and Elly almost forgot to sub on at all. Harriet left her stick behind and umpire Tess forgot her phone. But our contributions on the pitch were great, and it should be noted that Peterborough were as strong if not possibly stronger than the teams we have been facing in the league, and we made them work for their win. We are looking forward to a rematch once lockdown is lifted.