After last week’s injury and a trip to A&E with my arm well out of action, from the sheer boredom of not leaving the house all week and my pure love of hockey, I came to Newmarket to support from the sidelines. Upon leaving my house and nearly being blinded by the sun I went straight back inside to grab my sunnies, feeling hopeful for some good weather and a potential tan.

On arrival to Newmarket I quickly realised this was not to be the case but the sunglasses stayed as I nabbed extra layers. By the time the match finished I couldn’t feel my fingers on either hand. But the weather didn’t dampen any spirits. After a quick team talk, with one of the aims of the game being sticking on players tight, Laura’s words were quickly interpreted as, ‘Pretend the players are “the cream to your cake” and “the ball to your sack”’.

With these words running through everyone’s heads, the match started very defensively as Newmarket pushed hard. Despite the efforts from the defence (commendable performances from all) and Lou’s efforts in goal, Newmarket managed to sneak a couple of goals past. This only drove South to push harder, turning play around with a number of one-on-ones between Jess and the Newmarket keeper (including a good few tumbles - in her boyfriend’s words, “Like a salmon out of water.”)

The first goal was scored just as the umpire blew for a short due to Newmarket feet. Frustratingly not allowing the goal, we were determined to make this count. Again the ball was heading for the goal but was kicked off the goal line from a Newmarket player therefore resulting in a very tense flick being awarded to South. With everyone rooting for Jess and a camera at the ready, she stepped up to take it with a fantastic flick resulting in South’s first goal of the game. The second goal came shortly after this, scored again by Jess. The final score did not reflect the efforts made from South and the determination and drive from everyone on the pitch (and off).

With some great play from everyone, MoM votes went to Annabel, Jess, Alex, Elaine, Nicky and Lou, with Jess winning for her fantastic goals (especially that flick)! LoM was a joint winner again this week, going to Elaine (for stopping a couple of balls with her knee instead of her stick) and Jess (for having too much cuddle time on the floor with the goalie), with votes also going to Lou, Ginny and Tess.