Cambridge South Ladies 1s played some excellent team hockey for their first victory of the season against a strong Spalding side.

South got the first push-back but failed to take advantage and were immediately put under pressure by the visitors. However Captain Georgie’s pre-game adjustment of the team formation from last season was vindicated, as South’s defence regained possession and set up a counter-attacking break, setting the pattern for the game. For a while in the first half South managed to find their rhythm and put Spalding under some consistent pressure but could not find the back of the net.

The first goal was created on another break with Georgie’s through ball finding Caroline D on the left hand side of the D for a long sweep into the corner of the net. Spalding fought back hard but Rhi and Julie out wide never gave the Spalding forwards any space on the ball, and their best chance was denied by an amazing save off Cassie’s shoulder. They won a succession of short corners at the end of the half but South again stood firm.

The second half continued in a similar vein, with Spalding having a lot of possession and territory, but South looking dangerous on the break. Lindsey at centre back picked out some beautiful strong passes to spaces created by intelligent running up front by Alice, Sian, and Caroline D. A few slightly erratic umpiring decisions against both teams rattled Spalding’s composure but South kept cool and eventually capitalised. The second goal was set up by a lovely passing move right from the back involving Ellie, Julie, Caroline M, and Sian before being well finished by Caroline D. Newcomer Sian capped a strong performance at right wing by picking up a rebound off the Spalding keeper and slotting it from a very narrow angle for South’s third goal.

The defence was a sterling effort by the whole team, with Hayley and Caroline M in midfield tireless in running forward then tracking back time after time, and Ellie tackling strongly to sweep up any loose ends. Spalding’s pressure was rewarded with a late goal from a well directed strike off a short corner. But South stayed strong, and cheered on by supporters Loopy and Freya, closed out the win.

A strong performance from every member of the team, and if we can maintain this level of hockey we can look forward to a successful season.