Hockey – 2nd team match report

2nds went away to Harbourne for their second game of the season, looking to build on last week’s narrow loss. Fielding a team that included players who represented all three teams last season, we took on a team from Feeder League West, so it would prove a good challenge and great experience for a young team.

From the push back the game ebbed and flowed, with tows struggling to keep the ball as they got used to playing together, but they did look dangerous on the break. Harbourne took the lead midway through the first half as they made their possession count. Tows showed great spirit and drew level when Christina Clucas levelled soon after going behind. A formation change and some well-deserved refreshment, lead to Tows starting the second half in fine form. Leanne Hirst, Lisa Prince and Christina Clucas took control of the midfield and Cheryl McCullough and Tash Sahin looked dangerous up front, Karen and Lucy Plumbridge both showed great energy and skill as they pressured the Harbourne defence creating an opportunity for Cheryl to put Tows into a well-deserved lead. Harbourne struck back to level again at 2-2 but again Tows attacked with pace and a great move was finished in style by Stina, Tows 3 Harbourne 2. Harbourne attacked again but the defence marshalled by Vicki Hawking and Tracy MacDonald and Izzy Plumbridge looked stronger and harder to break down the longer the game went on. Tows continued to make chances and when the final whistle went they got a deserved win. The team kept working hard throughout and showed great spirit, and a special mention for Liela Sahin who had a great debut for the seconds defending really well throughout the match. Still plenty to work on but a great game for the 2s to win.