Saturday's match was a game of two halves. With a number of new faces within the team and no prior knowledge of Royston's game, we headed out into the unknown. Royston attacked our goal from the first whistle and we knew early on that we were going to have to play defensively. Our defenders and mid-field worked extra hard to keep Royston from our D. However, despite Loopy's best attempts and a number of ballsy saves, we conceded 2 goals. A third was disallowed but Royston maintained the pressure until half time. Some breakaway runs from our midfield and attackers offered glimpses of hope for the second half. Injured Captain Cath (with arm securely bandaged) gave an inspiring half time talk (was it possibly the drugs talking?). But the break in play proved to be a game changer.

The second half took Royston by surprise. Marking was tight, the opposition's free hits were well fielded and with some great passing into spaces we attacked Royston's goal with confidence. Suddenly we were keener to get the ball, running into open space and making better, more accurate tackles. The next thing we knew Jess Robins had scored and we were feeling less like we were on the back foot! We continued to play well as a team and to pass between us but the score remained at 2:1 until full time. The consolation prize was another excellent tea at the Red Bull and cakes courtesy of Pippa.