South Herts 1st XI v Broxbourne 2nd XI

10 November 2007

South Herts 1st XI kept up their winning run on Saturday but the 3-2 win over Broxbourne 2s was far closer than it should have been.

Herts spent much of the first half camped in the Broxbourne half but were unable to beat the formidable Broxbourne keeper either from open play or the numerous penalty corners they were awarded.

Herts pressure finally came to fruition midway through the half when Cate Jackson hit a first time shot which flew into the far corner of the goal. Despite the lift of the goal, Herts were unable to extend their lead and Ruth Spencer, Claire Moore and Jacky Manning began to see more action at the back as Broxbourne began to push forward. Broxbourne levelled when their centre forward broke through and, despite an excellent dive and parry by Mo Gough in goal, the ball crept over the line.

Herts looked to push forward in the second half and both Sue Richardson and Caroline Stanners made runs towards the circle to set up chances for Herts. Neat work between Stanners and Lucy Edwards finally set up a chance that Herts converted with Caroline Partridge driving into the circle to slip the ball in between keeper and post.

The temperature began to rise as the half went on with niggly challenges on the Herts players. Faye Jowett kept her cool and continued her fine man marking job on her opponent despite a number of shoves and somewhat underhand tackles.

Herts took what should have been a commanding lead when Sarah Jowett was put through by sister Faye and at the third attempt put the ball in the back of the net.

Broxbourne still found time to get a second when the ball bobbled around the area and was nudged over the line.

Herts kept their shape and marked tightly in the last couple of minutes to ensure their best ever start to a season continued with another win.

Goals: Cate Jackson, Caroline Partridge, Sarah Jowett