What a great game this week against division leaders Upminster 4s. Although the scoreline was 1-5 against us, and Upminster were indeed the stronger team, it doesn't really reflect the tight on-pitch battle, after the first dodgy 10 to 12 minutes or so for us, when we hadn't sorted out our defence properly and let in 2 quick goals.

After settling down, we gave Upminster a good challenge, making some strong pushes forward and attacking their D. This resulted in a superb goal from Katie P. Sienna crossed the ball in, almost from the right baseline. I can't remember whether the ball was already shin height or whether it took a deflection upwards, but Katie executed a wonderful mid-air, first touch bat into goal. We felt this might be a turning point and tried to keep the pressure on.

Apart from a passage towards the end of the game, where Upminster once again put huge pressure on our defence, the game was well balanced, with both sides surging forward at different moments. It was also a good tempered and clean game, assisted by our excellent umpires, Andy and Russ.

Upminster are to be commended on their "whole team" fitness and on their great team-working, which forced us to up our game. We really had to put in the extra effort to keep them at bay and when we got our defence and our forward moves working, there was some lovely hockey on display. A welcome change from last week.

Runners up for MoM this week were Holly - what a work-rate - and Sadie for stepping up from the 5s with aplomb against such a strong side. I managed to top the bill for my ferretting efforts in defence.

I'll also mention Sadie's older sister Katie again, who I thought had her best game of the season. Apart from the splendid goal, she worked hard both in midfield and upfront to offer option after option and make important little touches and passes. Also Jen, who literally flung her body on the ground on more than one occasion, in the line of duty. Incredible dynamism.

Smashing play from everyone though, so well done all!

Jane