It was a 7am meet for Romsey Hockey Club Ladies 1s, in their first match of the season. The ferry over to the Isle of Wight enhanced the team bonding and excitement of finally playing again.
On the pitch, Romsey started strong with their first goal in the 11th minute. The ball was carried up the line by wing back (and captain) Beeching, to Adams, who passed it from the goal line into the D. I Ackerman picked up the ball and fired it forcefully into the back of the goal. Not bad for I Ackerman’s debut match!
The second goal followed 6 minutes later when a short corner was won by Romsey. Olingschlaeger ejected to C Jones (Vice captain), who took a straight strike from the top of the D, direct into the right-hand corner.
RHC were feeling energised by a 0-2 lead, but Isle of Wight fought back and were awarded a P-flick shortly after. Goalkeeper Reilly stood tall and dominant in the goal causing Isle of Wight to send the ball over the goal.
Isle of Wight made a fast break and hit a reverse shot from the top of the D. It was a great goal making the score 1-2. Romsey had lots of possession and great runs, with Jenner and Lewis controlling the middle of the pitch.
As Romsey were tiring, Isle of Wight were awarded a short corner, which enabled them to equalise before half time, 2-2.
Half time allowed Romsey to regroup and return to the pitch with vigour. Within the first few minutes we were in Isle of Wights D and C Ackerman was unlucky not to get a goal from her quick thinking, attacking play. Humphreys worked the ball round the D and C Jones (player of the match) scored her second goal of the game, to bring the game to 2-3.
Isle of Wight were awarded several short corners, but the defence were fantastic with an amazing block tackle from Dixon, the speed of J Jones and leadership by Collins. Braund was moving off the ball throughout to ensure a pass was always on.
Romsey held the lead to win the first game of the season.
Manager Cooper was proud of the whole team and they are of him. RHC Ladies 1s are looking forward to their first home match at Ganger Farm at 10:30am on Saturday 1st October.
