South Herts 2nd XI v Hertford 3rd XI

14th March 2009

Second last game of the season and South Herts were eager for a win. Having a team of 14 helped with the plan. Being able to substitute tired legs for fresh ones is always a bonus. Also South Herts introduced a few of the juniors from the junior training sessions run by Sarah Withers and Peter Simmons, who look promising for next season. Looking a little nervous playing with the big girls but at the end of the game-they did good and held their own. A few old faces, plus one tiny new face, from seasons before crept back into the game which was great to see.

South Herts won the toss (always a good start) and decided to play into the wind first half giving Hertford first pushback. We started as we finished the last game, strong and confident, getting the ball up to Hertford’s half and trying to get the upper hand with the first goal, succeeding after getting a short corner awarded and Esther Strous converting. Trying to keep the momentum going South Herts stayed strong until Hertford fought back and scored 2 goals before half time. A few positive thoughts put back into everyone’s mind at half time and we were ready to get the score back.

Second half didn't start to our liking after going 3-1 down. But we quickly got it slightly back to 3-2. But like a yo-yo goes, Hertford again went 2 goals in the lead with the last goal of the match. Final score was 4-2.

Man of the match was shared Sarah Withers and Esther Strous

South Herts played a game of two halves, playing some brilliant hockey and strong passing play at times but were unfortunate not to win. With one game left in the season, South Herts are hoping it’ll be a super strong finish with a great win to put the team in good stead for an awesome 2009/2010 season.

Goal scorers: Esther Strous, Sarah Withers