The combination of a heavy drizzle and a last-minute change to a team of eleven had slightly dampened the team's spirits but nevertheless we were keen to replicate our win from last week. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of centre backs, Ruth and Elly, St Ives quickly found a gap in our defence to score a goal in the first few minutes of the game. Careful defending saw no shorts awarded in the first half, contrary to many L6 games. In another stroke of bad luck, midfielder Charlotte C was taken off the pitch with an injury leaving us down to just 10 on the pitch. Strong passes from right half, Vinnie allowed Esther to carry out some amazing runs up the pitch but a strong St Ives defence made it challenging to convert into goals. A slippery pitch saw a couple of falls including an epic slide from Eleanor. Later in the first half, a very experienced St Ives player pulled both defenders and goalie Claire away from the goal, leaving it undefended and free to send the ball to the back of the net. This left the score 2-0 going into half time.

A bit of tough love from coach Chris encouraged us to take advantage of St Ives slowness to set up and get our heads up. As the second half kicked off, the rain began to clear up and the team of 10 came back with great tenacity. Vocal support from the sidelines also boosted morale. Taking Chris’s advice on board, some quick free hits from a 16 saw the ball taken up into St Ives D. Some great hockey from the team in the second half put pressure on St Ives and prevented any further goals. Still one player down, we managed some great runs up the left hand side from May (PoM), Georgia and Eleanor. May was also awarded LoM after emitting some very loud noises for a painful foot foul. Brilliant positioning from forward Pedzi created several attempts on goal. More great defending in the second half. Two short corners were awarded in the second half but were well defended, even though Elly was left with a very swollen thumb as a result. A shot on goal from St Ives was well saved by goalie Claire. Some great play from the team in the second half and despite the score line the team walked off the pitch in high spirits.