Charnwood Sileby 2 Match Report

 

Saturday 17th November – Leicester University (H)

 

 

  Charnwood Sileby’s 100% start to the season came to an end last Saturday after a narrow defeat at the hands of Leicester University. On paper this match promised to be a competitive closely fought match between two teams that have enjoyed great starts to the season. It didn’t disappoint.

 

  The match started tentatively with both teams looking to get a feel for the other teams tactics and style of play. Both teams enjoyed plenty of possession as they looked to find any weaknesses in the opposition’s defence. Charnwood Sileby almost took the lead when Ali Goodyer’s reverse stick shot sailed narrowly over the crossbar. It was the University team that made their possession count as they carved themselves a chance and took the lead after 25 minutes. That was enough to send them into half time with a narrow lead in a half they just shaded.

 

Half Time 0-1

 

  The match came to life in the second half. Both teams obviously fancied their chances of winning and along with that belief came the free flowing skillful hockey we were hoping to see. Charnwood Sileby came out strong from the push back and found an equalizing goal after only two minutes. Awarded a free hit just outside the opposition area Ali Goodyer received the ball, dribbled past a couple of defenders and drilled a reverse stick shot past the keeper. The home side took the lead after 47 minutes from a penalty corner. Mel Swidenbank’s well-struck shot at goal was turned in at the left hand post by Cath Drew. Both teams continued to pass the ball skillfully to all areas of the pitch in the hope of creating more goal scoring chances. Again it was the University team that found the gap to force an equalizer after 59 minutes. The goal appeared to lift the away team as they piled on the pressure. Charnwood Sileby’s defence had been superb all day and had soaked up everything the opposition could throw at them. Unfortunately Leicester University somehow snatched a late winner to take victory.

 

Full Time 2-3

 

Player of the match: Helen Rhodes

 

Goal Scorers: Ali Goodyer, Cath Drew

 

Team: Helen W, Anne, Thea, Helen R, Rachel, Cath, Claire, Ali G (capt), Abi, Mel, Sian, Amy L, Alex.

 

 

 

From Matthew Hyman