Driving towards Cambridge South Long Road I looked out at the fog and tried to rehearse in my head what I was going to say in the team talk. It was a big match - a promotion match. Against a side who very likely and historically stronger than us. 

Chat GPT helped me on Friday, and as we were chatting I realised that the L3s had all the ingredients of what classes as a 'successful' team. We have had 13 different POMs over the season showcasing our collective over individualistic attitude. We all know and celebrate each other's different strengths. Our trust in each other has grown over the season, and we had the talent and depth of 16 players in our squad for the match today - big shout out 2s captains Freya, Jen and Emily who helped us keep all our players for our big game! 

By the time we had team talked, found out that Selene had her first ever easter egg which she won at training on Thursday, done a warm up and lost the toss - we were ready. 

We had supporters flanking the pitch (shout out to Mr Clarke - the loudest supporter out there), Coach Ed (who was at our game even though it made him late for his own push back), each other, and good, slightly anxious vibes. 

From the outset we played well. Working hard and consistently we played some of the best hockey we have all season, and managed to execute a beautiful short corner goal. City brought it back through an attacking short corner which just escaped through Selenes pads. 

Half time rolled around and it was a little tense but some wise words form Ed, a couple of Giant Strawbs, and words of warmth and encouragement to each other, and we were ready. 

Maintaining composure, grace and our standard approach of killing it with kindness culminated in TWO more outstanding goals (Steph so close to a hat-trick again!) I was so excited by the second that I tried to whoop with joy and jog back towards the D at the same time, lost control of the backwards motion and took a spectacular fall. Luckily, everyone saw and the VEO captured it (the youngest Warburton family member said it should be on youtube). 

When the final whistle blew we celebrated like we had got promoted- because we HAD! We drank prosecco from miniature trophies (designed and printed by a long suffering husband) celebrating the end of the season in style! 

POM votes were across the team, but Tilly the Terrier came out on top :) and I got LOM - mainly due to Warbs' lemon fishing! 

We wait with baited breath to see if St Ives win their final game next weekend because if they dont ... we have won the league! 

And with that hopeful thought- this is the L3s captain signing off. Over and out.