Buckingham prove to be a tough test for Ladies 1s

With two weeks till Hawks Ladies recommence their season in the National League they faced Buckingham in a friendly at Banbury Road. This was always going to be a tough test with Buckingham currently flying high at the top of the table in National League Conference West.

The game got off to a quick start with both teams moving the ball efficiently around the pitch. Buckingham looked the sharper side closing down Hawks quickly. They continued to demonstrate some well drilled patterns of play and proved clinical in front of goal, scoring two out of two from short corners. Evelyn Hargraves made some excellent saves and Hawks finished the first half a bruising 3-0 down.

Coach Andy Clark must have given some inspired words at half time with Hawks returning to the pitch with more determination and confidence in the second half. Hawks dominated and were purposeful in possession. Overall the quality of hockey in the second half was better and Hawks were clearly taking the game to Buckingham. Clare King cleared the defensive line and carried the ball confidently up the field. Great work from Anna French and some lovely through balls from player of the match Becca Demczak allowed Hawks to maintain their attack. However, Buckingham proved to strong in the tackle and Hawks could not break down the defence.

 The game finished 4-0 but the result was not important. Hawks had at times played some fantastic hockey. They had maintained possession and quality in their play for the full 70 minutes . Hawks are looking strong and fit as they move into the second half of their season. With 6 out of their 9 away games already played and sitting comfortably in the middle of the table the scene is set for an exciting second half !

Hawks still have two friendlies to play including Gloucester and Trojans before they meet Ipswich at home on the 5th of February!

Squad

Charlotte Burrows, Henri Coles, Becca Demczak, Abigail Flory, Anna French, Cita Haines, Evelyn Hargraves, Flick Hughes, Kara Kerr, Clare King, Zoe Lamb, Becky Odlin, Kathryn Poulter, Bex Strange, Beth Warne

Player of the match: Becca Demczak