This was a game for the history books. Never before have the odds been so stacked against the team that ended up victorious. Nerves were high arriving in Peterborough as captain Elly had to deal with some last minute drop outs. Georgia and May were ruled out of action due to being hit with an illness and a Voi respectively. Due to low numbers earlier in the week the team had double ups from three generous L5’s. Despite this and the looming grey clouds the team kept their focus on the task at hand. Not even the appearance of multiple cute dogs was a distraction. Were these puppies a last ditch attempt from Peterborough to soften up the team? Impossible to know. Once in position the team were ready to rumble. The sun in their eyes, the girls were pushing into Peterborough’s 16 within five minutes. The game had already a great pace despite numerous stick tackle fouls that pepper many of the L6’s games. Full of enthusiasm, new player Leonie joined the pitch as the first sub at six minutes. Temporary Coach May used her very piercing Northern Irish accent to keep the keep motivated and run though the subbing plan with military precision. Some great defending Elly, Ruth, Laura and particularly Rosie at the back meant that Peterborough had very few forays into South’s 16 in the first half. The fact that it was her second game of the day took no wind out of Helen’s sails and she provided some great support in midfield. A goal from Polly meant the girls moved into half time with a 1-0 lead. This goal was contested by the opposition but ultimately allowed by the umpires.

A bit of argy bargy from the opposition unbalanced Pedzi, who rolled her ankle and had to come off. Some fantastic runs up the right hand side from POM Vinnie. After several brilliant chances, South’s Nicky S managed to get another goal to get the score up to 2-0. LOM was awarded to Rosie for a false start at a short corner. Unfortunately possession was given to Peterborough from a 16 who then, despite excellent goal keeping from Claire, got a goal. Leaving the final score at 2-1. A last minute push form Nicky P created an opportunity for another goal , however it was narrowly missed.

Prominent hockey commentator remarked before the game “So what are the girls chances of going to Peterborough and winning? Less likely to happen than not”. Ever the under dog, the team defied this prediction, showing that in the face of tenacity and teamwork, statistics are a fool’s game.

Although it was a loss on the field for Peterborough they had another, arguably more important, win after the game. They absolutely blew the competition out of the water for best teas to date this season. With a generous spread of sandwiches and homemade scones with cream and jam, the L6’s headed back to Cambridge with full hearts and stomachs.