Bournville 2s play a tough Stourport opposition

The first challenge for Bournville Ladies’ 2nd XI was an early start on a frosty Saturday morning at Stourport. Undaunted, the squad, inspired by our leader, Anna, trudged over the road to the pitch and prepared themselves for yet another hard fought game (aka humiliation). The war paint and the fixed grimaces were applied, the muscles were warmed and the sun even came out to raise our spirits. (Makes a change from the hip flask!)

With our squad strengthened by the return of some of last season’s stalwarts we were amazed to find that we could actually enter the opponents half of the pitch. Well, that was a pleasant surprise! As the sun continued to shine, we even found we could retain possession and (please don’t faint) manage several on-target strikes at goal. Bournville had arrived on the park and were taking the game to a strong and experienced Stourport team. We started the second half with the scores level but as the stronger and more skillful team. Unfortunately for us, but all credit to them, wily Stourport took advantage of our inexperience as we changed players and formation and scored two goals. We did not let our attitude slip and continued playing our best hockey of the season until Gemma Taylor provided the best moment of the game with a superb individual goal demonstrating great speed, agility and skill. It was a pleasure to behold.

Cath Hood in goal continues to star not only with her athleticism and quick reactions but also with her attitude and inspirational (that’s code for strict) team talks giving us all helpful and clear advice. The game finished with the girls tired but happy and with their confidence boosted.

The trick now is to repeat the magic and build a stronger and more successful team for the second half of the season. Game on.

WELL DONE EVERYONE.