Stalemate at the Heath

After a couple of reversals to a promising start to the season Sils were hit by the withdrawal of 6 regular first teamers as they entertained Rugby and East Warwickshire in his First Division encounter.

To add to Sils woes 2 of the players were still carrying injuries from previous weeks but not to be over awed the team took to the field in a positive attitude. Rugby were soon into their stride and proved to be a well organised outfit with the main threat coming from their right wing which they tried to exploit at every opportunity which was well nullified through the combined talents of Tori Breilland and Captain for the da Kate Huntington. Neither goal keeper was troubled until mid way through the first half when Joanne Brett was called upon to clear a cross D pass earmarked for an onrushing forward.

Sils not to be outdone and led by new centre forward Rebeca Leaning were making inroads of their own and causing some desperate defending in the other D. Much of the first half was spent in the middle of the pitch with the odd short corner being awarded at both ends. Caroline May was making headway down the right supported by Clar Miles although the final ball couldn't quite be secured.

The second half started in much the same way as the first ended with plenty of hockey being played in the middle although faltering on the defences. Brett was again called onto stop a Rugby attack as the forwards broke the defensive line and again 10 minutes later as a lone forward broke through from the half way line with the defence in hot pursuit. Brett met her at the to of the D before smothering and holding the play up until the cavalry had arrived to clear away the loose ends.

With 15 minutes left on the clock Captain Huntington was forced off with an injury but the re-shuffle bringing Alison Leeke back into defence with no adverse effects. With minutes left on the clock Sils forced 3 short corner with a further one after the whistle had blown but could still not capitalise and the game ran out for a draw.

Plenty of positives to be taken from a great team performance and the knowledge that there are plenty of players now knocking at the door for selection.

MOM: Joint award this week to Joanne Brett for numerous top class saves and Tori Breilant for another accomplished display.

DOD: awarded in her absence to Sam Cooper (sorry Sam) for not informing Kate just how stressful captaincy is.