Turning up to the pitch the ladies could hardly contain their excitement. Today was the day, the day they had all been waiting for. The first CSHC social in 18+ months! Oh, and the first league match.

Opposition on this sunny Saturday afternoon were Newmarket 2s, who finished 4 places below our 4s last season. Surely South had a chance! The game started well, south were dominant and strong, helped by the support of a few spectators including coach Izzy and (assistant) coach Ed. The mids Ann, Olivia and Becky did well to keep the ball high, creating opportunity for the forwards. There was a devious slip behind goalie by Naomi in the first ten minutes, swiftly followed by a clean strike at the top of the D by Kath. 3-2 to Newmarket at this point, surely South could bring this back.

Half time saw skipper Hannah look to Kea, 'sweets?' she said. Kea shamefully bowed her head, alas, she forgot the Percy Pigs. Hannah looked sad. Water will suffice. Izzy and Laurie gave the team some words of advice and then they were back on, taking a more defensive approach this half.

Despite some excellent saves from Cassie, including saving a ball after having been tackled to the ground with a player launched on top of her, a few more goals slipped past. On our side we had some nice shots on goal, including from 3 short corners. These were narrowly missed as Newmarkets defence stood strong. Coach Izzy got sad and left.

With ten minutes to go, Kath scored again, this time facilitated by Becky who ran the ball to the D, passing to Olivia who circled the perimeter before slipping to Kath at P, who slapped it in, deservingly earning her POM. Special mention to Olivia too, her first match back after taking a season out to study.

The ladies were relieved to hear the whistle blow, it was hot and the evening sun low and bright. In fustration of the score, Becky lauched her bottle in the air, soaking Shree in the process. Becky, ya lemon. 

Next stop was Pizza, then a quick turnaround to get to Grain and Hop. To drown their sorrows.