12 L6s made the early(ish)trek to Peterborough, a few of whom were feeling the effects of work Christmas parties the night before. Our dedicated VC Georgia was out of action with a broken hand, but came along to support and organise subs from the sideline. Unfortunately the previous night’s partying required an ‘emergency stop’ en route, earning a few lemon votes.

It was a strong start by South, with most of the action in the opposition’s D. We won some short corners, and soon were a goal up. A strong on-target strike from Pedzi was saved by the goalie, and Sophie L, whose positioning and running was great all game, pounced on the rebound to score her debut goal. Our inspirational captain Ruth was making some excellent drives through the middle of the pitch and distributing the ball. Defenders Ludo and Ellie also took their chances to push up for some midfield action. We were 1-0 up at half time, and were reminded in the team talk to keep our shape and not  get drawn in to bunching when the opposition did. The advice was followed and we were even stronger in the second half. As always Sarah was solid on the right, preventing anything getting down that line. Due to a surplus of defenders, Sophie D ended up as attacking mid, and adapted brilliantly to her new position with some excellent runs and passes.

The game became quite physical, with Lou being pushed over at least 3 times. Fortunately the pitch was quite nice and soft and not sandy, and she enjoyed wearing the lovely lemon crown at teas. We won several more short corners, two of which saw Peterborough’s defence reduced to 2 players as they were sent to the half way for breaking too early. Ruth added to her goalscoring tally with a lovely short corner straight strike. Pedzi worked her socks off up front, always meeting the ball and driving it into the D. Hannah was also running energetically, and her efforts were finally rewarded when she got on to the ball to score her debut goal and seal the final score at 3-0.

Goalkeeper Claire did not touch the ball once. She earned a well-deserved MoM vote for her dedication in going all the way to Peterborough for this.

Teas were a strong 9/11 rating – delicious pasta with mince pies for after. The clubhouse was nicely decorated for Christmas, further raising our festive mood. We end the year top of the league, undefeated and with no goals conceded, so there was plenty to celebrate at the club Christmas party. Ruth was a well-deserved PoM for her energy, commitment and goal, but again there was a spread of votes reflecting how well we played as a team. Thank you to our wonderful coach Chris for helping us get here! Merry Christmas everyone.