Tough opener for the ladies 3rd team

Phoenix Blues - 4
Leek 3s - 0

A first game of the new season saw a Leek ladies team made up of a mixture of youth and experience, the game being a first for many at this level.

An experienced Phoenix team started well and it took a while for Leek to get into the game and get the right structure on which to build. In this time, Phoenix scored twice with very direct play.

After this initial set back, Leek started to grow in confidence and enjoy more possession. Alex Spragg and Fran Ward were solid in defence, passing the ball wide to create opportunities. Lucy Dale, Julie Hunt, Caite Heath, Sophie Walker and Bev Plant put in some important tackles which started to turn the tide in Leek having better possession. Ruby Lawley and Heidi Broad worked well together on the right hand side, interchanging some great passing moves which opened up some attacking opportunities. In midfield, Abi Hall and Jess Rushton worked hard and were strong linking up with Nat Whiston and Kate Jones up front in trying to get Leek on the score sheet. Kate’s experience and encouragement kept Leek positive despite the score line, and she was a threat at every penalty corner.

Whilst this was not the result Leek hoped for, Phoenix Blues definitely had to work for their win. Other than the first ten minutes, Leek were always in the game and just about shaded possession. A final mention for Hannah Boulton in goal who made a number of great saves to keep the score line reflective of the game. Player of the match was given to Heidi Broad for her excellent hockey and determination with several other members of the team receiving votes. Leek will only get better with games and the feeling in the bar afterwards was that everyone enjoyed the day!!