The day started with usual admin chaos from Tess with kit bag left in Ian’s car. A rummage around for some back up ice packs and call out for spare balls and we were on our way. Did lock down LOM for Tess and Ian fairly early doors however. Thanks again to Tiff for containing the carnage and getting us all across the country in one piece.

We arrived at Peterborough ready to try out our shiny new formation. Prepped with video coaching from Tim we went out nervous but excited to give the system a bash. 

As the game started we were looking really strong. The screens were bounce passing back to the defence and we were threatening in attack in no time. The communication was on point and everyone was working super hard for one another. We switched the ball round the back excellently. 

Okay, so after a strong start the rest of the first half was a bit more of a battle. City of P bagged themselves 2 goals. Kudos to some of the silky skills on display from their midfield line. But we stuck in it, won a short and got 1 back. A gorgeous goal that came from an initial save that the gang worked together to keep alive and Charlotte eventually found the backboard. 

Half time arrived 2-1 down. We were having flash backs of the week before where we came back to smash out a win after going down. 35 minutes of settling in and we felt ready to get out there again. 

Now looking into the sun though, this half admittedly felt like much harder work. A dodgy goal got us a bit riled and for a spell there we conceded more goals than we would have liked. Yet even though as a team we felt a bit unsure about how to manage under pressure in the new set up, all the girls maintained such a positive attitude and supported one another brilliantly. 

Without getting into the specifics, the final score was sadly a 6-1 defeat. Yet this result far from reflects the quality of the hockey on show. Notable mentions to Mel, Izzy and Immy - but an ultimate POM for Lucy. No your eyes do not deceive you - there was our gal in the midfield line and doing a stunning job. Not only was she clearing her wings and causing their forwards hell, but her distribution from the middle was also top notch. We love to see it. 

So yes, we lost the game and feel a bit sad. And yes, we’re keen to get a bit more practice and coaching for the new system.

But this game saw us playing some of our best hockey. Passing in triangles, winning short corners, switching, hassling for 50/50 balls and running our socks off. Onwards and upwards!