Sonning Vets v Maidenhead Ladies 4 at Sonning 12^th December 2009

Team: S.Hicks, C.Miles, S.Edgerton, J.Grindal, A.Higgins, D.Webb,C.John, R.Beasley,F. Ford, A.Browne, S.Oldham, L.

Sonning Vets 2 – Maidenhead Ladies 4th – 0

Umpires: Kate Aley plus opposition.

This was a make or break match to lift the Vets from relegation spot, and with concerted effort we made it, to rise 4 places into 8^th place out of 12.

In relatively mild, sunny conditions the Vets enjoyed an early start and though under early pressure, we held out to gain advantage and a second short corner, which was rewarded by Sharon’s centre conversion after 15 minutes.

Jill and Ruth were able to cut out many mid field attacks, with Ruth particularly effective in stopping the Maidenhead runners, and Carol M. mopping up those who worked through. Sue was unbeaten in goal and besides clearing on target shots she was astute in anticipating those flying narrowly wide. Sara was steady backing up on the right, with Fran operating behind centre forward and then moving up to initiate the attacks in the second half. Carol J. had her share of chances on goal as well as getting the better of Maidenhead in right mid field. Some of the younger Maidenhead players showed excellent stick skills but could not always pass accurately under pressure. Debbie worked well down the right flank and put across an excellent square pass for Anji to convert for the second goal.

Andrea, guesting in the middle enjoyed a run out of her usual goal keeper position and young Laura moving round the field was welcomed by the older players who find it difficult to comprehend the entirely different playing style.

Maidenhead worked hard to regain control and towards the end the tension of their attacks caused Sonning defence to suffer a whole series of short corners. It appeared that Carol M only had to be within 3 metres of the ball for a penalty to be awarded!

However we held out for a well deserved and welcome victory.