Ladies' 1s beat Bath Buccaneers

Oxford Hawks made the journey westward, to face bottom of the league Bath. A crucial game for Hawks, being only a few points ahead in the league. Bath started with ambition, but Hawks' defending held true with some excellent stepping in front by central defender Row Hearn, which pleased the family support in the stands. Some good periods of passing play led to some chances for Hawks, winning a number of short corners. Unfortunately Hawks were unable to convert. Bath returned with some good attacking play of their own. A quickly taken free hit outside the D found a deflection giving Bath the lead. Hawks responded strongly with some excellent leading from Annabelle Denly and Lex Thomas. The first half ended 1-0 to Bath. 

An inspiring team talk from coach Andy Clark had Hawks coming out in the second half with confidence. A well worked period of passing play led to a chance for man of the match Katie Lowe, which was saved by the Bath keeper. Lex Thomas leapt on the rebound, slotting away the ball to bring Hawks level. Bath responded with some strong play, but were unable to penetrate the Hawks defence. Abi Flory turned on the engine, cutting holes in the Bath defence with game changing  speed and skill. An exceptional run by Flory led to a well placed strike giving Hawks the lead. Bath worked hard to bring the score back level, including a well struck shot from near the top of the D. Sharp reactions from keeper Jess Hughes tipped the attempt round the post, keeping Bath out of the game. The game finished with a 2-1 victory for Hawks.

Squad

Annabelle Denly, Abi Flory, Henri Gordon, Caro Harris, Rowena Hearn, Becky Hibbert, Jess Hughes, Kara Kerr, Katie Lowe, Bex Oakes, Becky Odlin, Catherine Reaney, Lucy Stewart, Emily Taylor, Alexa Thomas

Player of the match: Katie Lowe

Scorers