A great 2-1 win for Ladies 3’s against local rivals Oxford 2s

This was a much anticipated game for the 3s’ having narrowly lost 2-3 to Oxford 2s in October. Last year. Rivalries were put aside at the start as both teams participated in a 30 second silence and 30 second applause to mark the life of Tim Bence, who played goal keeper for the mens 7s and mixed team at Oxford, who sadly died the previous week.

We knew the game was going to be tough but we were a little slow to start and Oxford were really up for the game.  Unfortunately Oxford 2s put us on the back foot immediately, scoring their goal within the first few minutes of play.  Hawks regrouped well with lots of hard work and skilful transfers from our defensive players and Katie Merrick working as tirelessly as ever in midfield.  Our play picked up as the half progressed, with Hawks increasingly winning those ’50-50’ balls and putting Oxford under increasing amounts of pressure.   Our first goal came from a lovely ball up to Captain Lizzie who made an excellent lead up front.  Lizzie was calm, cool and collected, skilfully crossing the ball across the D where Emma was waiting on the left post to slot it past the goalie.  An excellent half-time talk ensued with Hawks keen to keep fighting in the second half.  We kept our intensity, with lots of strong play from all members on the pitch. Our second goal came from a short corner, with Katie using all of her experience and skill to execute a ‘bobbled strike’ which the keeper was not able to save.  Hawks worked hard to the end against an Oxford team who were keen to draw level; an excellent team performance and a fantastic win to get under our belts!

MOM – Katie Merrick