There was an unbelievable game of hockey in the sunshine at Cargilfield today.

It was an end to end first half with Savannah, in the early stages, having the first shot at goal saved by the St Mary’s keeper, only to pop up at the other end moments later and clear one off the line.

St Mary’s attacked down the right hand side and put in the crosses but we either cleared our lines or got lucky that they didn’t get a final touch. Having defended well, we allowed St Mary’s to swarm forward and have a 4 against 2 attack whilst the midfield stood and watched. St Mary’s were clinical on this occasion and went into the break one goal up.

Towards the end of the half however, we began to discover how making some wide runs, frees up some space in the middle and Beatrice, whose distribution all game was excellent, found Isla at the top of the D but we couldn’t convert the chances as St Mary’s defended their D well.

Unfortunately we started the second half very slowly and allowed St Mary’s to run in behind us and before we knew it, we were 5 nil down! We were a bit shell-shocked but if we don’t go with the forward runners and fail to mark closely, we are always going to be in trouble.

Savannah took the game by the scruff of the neck and charged forward to score and begin an unlikely comeback. Valentina and Nancy were positive in taking the ball forward and both looked to move the ball to the right and get it back to Savannah. The striker was on hand again and with 2 minutes to go, we got it back to 5-4. However, we ran out of steam and almost got the equaliser but for the St Mary’s defender making a terrific block and they hung on for the win.

It was a terrific match and St Mary’s were deserved winners, playing the better hockey but we can look back on this game and learn how we might do things differently next time.

Players of the match were Savannah for her work rate and goals and Beatrice for her intelligent passing from the back.

Final score 5-4 to St Mary’s.