The day started with not only nerves but also the sound of Latham Road pavilion alarm. Standing on the side lines, the 5s enjoyed seeing the L6s to another league win. The adrenaline was pumping having just watched some great hockey, but with focus minds we stepped onto the pitch. Working with a new(ish) formation we started off slow but had great support all round. It didn’t take long for Nicky to push forward with the help of Louisa, Holly and Helen to fire a shot – sadly this hit the post BUT never fear because she was back again for more - scoring our first goal from a short corner. Haverhill were soon to strike back with a lucky shot on goal. At half time, we were drawing at 1-1. After a tactical chat and a selection of sweets – this week Tangfastics and Randoms (the Randoms seemed like an odd option but went down well, could be the mixture of the jelly and foamy ones. One word. VERSATILITY) – we reset confidently.

The second half began and we set into motion with renewed vigour and trying to do Tim (and his whiteboard) proud. Emma and Camille worked their way up the pitch with Hattie assisting giving Emma our second goal. Not to be outdone, KA was straight back with our third goal, using her bum to roll out neatly near the goalie and pop the ball in the corner. The strong defence from Julie, Vicki and Rebecca forced Haverhill to really push, challenging their breaks. Cassie, being the goal goddess she is, was diving, rolling and making moves all over the place which denied Haverhill any further chances. Working the ball round the back for the rest of the match helped the wings Harry and Avi move the ball up, giving some great chances to channel up the sides.

Overall, the result was our first win, with all of us playing some great hockey. There were many nominations for POM, with Emma and KA topping the charts. LOM was awarded to Holly S for having a hole in her stick (alas we have ALL been there before), with El Capitano Louisa also receiving votes for passing the ball to the opposition (apparently blinded by the sun and confusing purple with pink).