The L4s began the new season with a friendly down in Bishop Stortford. The journey down to Essex went pretty smoothly (with only one late arrival) until we found a security fence blocking our path to the pitch -  Hannah's unsuccessful attempt to crawl under it made her a very early LOM winner!

A rusty start meant that Bishop Stortford scored two goals in quick succession - their first off a short, and their second involving a fight through goalie Zoe. Although Zoe did win joint POM for excellent defending for the whole game - squaring up to many of their strikers and clearing the ball with ease

Another tragedy befell us as Claudia took a ball to the face (and reminded us all about the importance of gumshield use) about 5 minutes into the first half. She was left to spectate as we recovered from the goals, holding our own until half time.

After a pep talk and some much needed water (Hockey is not a summer sport for a reason), we were back on for the second half.

With great runs from Lily, and some lovely play from Hattie, Erin and Sarah and Katy up front meant that we had some good chances at scoring, sadly foiled by Bishop Stortford's defences

Good defences on our part, and some lovely link ups with the midfield (Emma's running down the right, Hannah, Caitlin, and Nicole always being ready for a pass from the back) resulted in a drawn second half. We matched the oppositions energy with lots of shouting, led by Ginny (apart from a memorable occasion when she confused who's free hit it was - see title of this report). Vicky, me, and Zoe all earned POM votes for defending, with me and Zoe as joint POM.

All in all, a pretty strong start to the season!