Broxbourne 4th XI v South Herts 2nd XI

8th November 2008

On a very miserable day South Herts travelled to Broxbourne to play the higher of their two teams in the 5 counties Div 4 league. South Herts, playing with with several injured and ill players, were expecting a tough game. From first off both teams were evenly matched in what was a good natured, enjoyable game to play.

In the first half both teams got their chances to score and both defended well. Esther Strous, Chris Field and Sarah Withers playing some lovely passing hockey were very unlucky not to score on several occasions. Even defender Karen Lawson deserved to find the back of the net when playing up for attacking short corners.

Alas an unlucky own goal by a South Herts defender took Broxbourne into the lead defore the first half came to a close.

With the weather improving and Esther being brought back to strengthen the midfield, some lovely passing hockey followed the break and South Herts were soon on the attack again, still thwarted by a strong Broxbourne defense.

Unfortunately a lapse in man marking allowed Broxbourne to break, with some nice passing and a two on one, South Herts only defender in the D stood no chance, with Broxbourne finding the back of the net.

South Herts stayed positive and continued to show some good team work through the middle yet failing to capitalise in the D.

Following a minor scuffle in front of goal and the ball being lost under the goalie's padding, Herts conceded a penalty flick, which was superbly saved by Glenys Chiswell.

Following a very long ball by Esther, finding the back line after clearing three quarters of the pitch, Broxbourne tried to take a quick hit out which was miss hit and intercepted by Michelle Lewis, with only one defender in sight, a well timed pass to Chris Field giving a clear shot at goal with no pressure... unfortunately miss hitting it, Chris let a perfect chance to take her season goal tally to 4 go begging...sometimes you can just have too much time...

With the weather turning nasty again, the remainder of the game was evenly fought with neither side gaining the upper hand and no further goals scored. Though not deserving to lose, South Herts played a lovely game and were commended by the umpires who felt it was nice to watch and enjoyable to umpire.

Man of the Match went to Esther Strous.