The 6s arrived to a sunny but rather crisp Long Road, raring to get their teeth into the first match of the year, only to find the changing rooms were locked and the ‘emergency’ number apparently deeming that nothing could be enough of an emergency to pick up on Saturday morning. The 6s were examining nearby bushes for coverage but luckily a disabled toilet was unlocked. 

The first half started with a Long Sutton pushback. They were facing the sun and we were feeling (naively) confident. Within the first few minutes Long Sutton drove the ball into their D with apparent ease and secured a long corner which resulted in their first goal. This wasn’t just any goal. This was the 6s first goal conceded of the season. Ruth’s heart was shattered.

The shaky start continued and our passing was pretty weak, but like a good quality bike we just needed a bit of oiling and we started to find our feet and make space on the pitch. An excellent feed by Helen led to a beautiful goal from Lyra and her first of the season. The 6s had started to find their groove. 

The first half concluded at 1:1 and the 6s were determined to improve their ball pace and make more space in the 2nd half, confident they could still take the win.

For the 2nd half South were facing the slightly blinding sun but they played fiercely and maintained good possession of the ball. A few short corners were won although unfortunately these weren’t followed through with goals. Long Sutton scored on another short corner, bringing the score to 1:2 to Long Sutton, the first time this season the 6s found themselves losing. Spirits were down but the fight remained strong, with defender Rebecca remarkably saving a goal on the goal line whilst the GK Claire had moved out into the D.

The 6s put their absolute all into the last few minutes in a last ditch attempt at a draw. Ruth moved up the pitch and set up a final attempt, but unfortunately our time was up and the whistle blew. 

With brains foggy from the loss, Ludo, Hannah and Rebecca headed past the rugby club where teas was taking place, perhaps hoping they could quietly leave and not have to confront the devastated 6s. Despite the loss the 6s remained upbeat and enjoyed their pizza by the fire. 

Upon handing her votes in for POM and LOM Nicki managed to throw hers into G’s tea, scoring her LOM votes from anyone who had not already voted. However Nicki and Hannah tied on votes and Hannah was awarded the lemon instantaneously once she attempted to argue her way out of it. POM was awarded to Esther and Sophie for great passes and runs. 

This match was one of many firsts for the 6s this season - first goal conceded, first match lost, and first time the captains arrived early?!?! But now we’re all warmed up and ready to get back to those wins!