Signs of what was to come all started before play, when an unfortunate frog appeared in our captains kit bag, and there were speculations as to what was to come. On a beautiful spring afternoon South’s 5s pitched up to play against Long Sutton at Long Road. After a delayed start, Sutton began with the ball but this didn’t last for long. South managed to battle for the ball from the off. Despite having about 9 penalty shots at goal in the first half, and the ball predominately with us within the 25 line, we quickly realised Long Sutton’s secret weapon. They had a goalie for whom some would say was good enough to play nationally. She dived, she ran, she shouted… and she was very hard to get past. By half time, it was 0-0. 

Post half time, we decided to broach upon a different tactic - making use of short quick passes to get around the goalie. Part of the way through the second half, there was a breach of our defence. Our defence scrambled to get back and Ellie (our goalie) made a great attempt to deflect, sadly to no avail. It only made south all the more determined to gain advantage once more. 

Our backs and mids were excellent at taking the ball and whacking it up the pitch. A particular shout out to Rosie, Sammy, Eloise and Daisy for POM noms, and Holly (POM) for excellent interceptions and drives, good work rate and positive play. Throughout the match there were about 15 penalty shots to our advantage, with a particular shout out to Charlotte for a beautiful flick which was batted away by the goalie of the year from Long Sutton. By the time the final whistle had been blown South had played an excellent game of hockey, but had not managed to get past the Long Sutton goalie. 

However, all was not lost! Post match reflections on the group chat included an encouraging message that despite the outcome of today’s match, we have indeed won the league! Congratulations Cambridge South 5s!! We look forward to our final match next week as victors!