Old Silhillians 1st XI 4 - 0 Long Buckby 1st XI

Old Silhillians 1st XI 4 (3) - (0) 0 Long Buckby 1st XI

Goals: Sophie Boyle; Annabel Dalby; Caro Kappes; Izzy Gardner

The Ladies 1st team went into the opening game of the season with high expectations and lots of energy. With Lauren Hobday being delayed by the school open day, the Sils had a strong looking 13 player squad, and set about their task.

The game pretty much played out the same way the whole way through - the defence looking assured and composed, expertly organised by Jo in goal; whilst the midfield ran the show. The ball was kept high up the pitch and the forwards ran hard to try and provide space for the midfield to exploit. The forward line was made up of players not naturally accustomed to playing high and so worked really hard to get their positioning right, and eventually their hard work led to space being created for Annabel Dalby on the left. Her driving run into the D created a PC, and whilst the routine did break down, the ball was kept alive and Sophie Boyle eventually turned and fired home for her first league goal.

Further PCs were won but the visiting defence managed these superbly (as they did throughout the match) and so it took a great run by Izzy Gardner down the right to create the second open play chance, this time converted by Annabel Dalby flicking home to double the lead. The third goal came from a move started by Caro Kappes in her own half, and finished as she received the ball back from Ruth Dovey to smash home on her reverse.

Half-time and all going well.

The second half continued in much the same vein - lots of possession, and lots of PCs, with the Sils ladies playing some excellent hockey, but perhaps being a little generous in their inability to get the ball into the net! However, lots of chances were created, and the one goal that did come in the second half was slapped home by Izzy Gardner as she got on the end of another strong Sils move.

The game ended with smiles all round - the team perhaps being over critical of themselves having won 4-0, kept a clean sheet, and played very well.

Player of the Match votes were counted and Annabel Dalby took the prize.

A good start to the season, and an excellent roast dinner after the match to help warm the slightly damp bodies!