On a cold, turning freezing (literally) end to the home games on Saturday, the W6s braved the low temperatures. Rachel secured DoD by turning up with no hockey sticks for herself and Sophie, followed by an attempt to start the game with 12 players on the pitch.

A vote pushed Ophelia into the Captain’s role and she set the tone by winning the toss. Once the strict umpire James (described by his daughter as the grey haired umpire) had evened the game by insisting Loughts start with 11 players, we were off.

A strong first half, great structure, and supporting each other on the pitch, with hard work and marking in defence meant a clean sheet at half time but no goals yet on the board.

A more attacking formation in the second half (with 11 players not 12) and 10 minutes into the second half Loughts battling for the ball saw Ophelia gain possession around the half way and carry the ball towards the goal, dragging a number of defenders to her. A fantastic call and square pass to Mia who was free top D gave Mia the space for a great slap into the goal. 1-0 Loughts.

2 minutes later and this time it was a great run from Mia following battling to gain possession and a ball across the goal for Anya to score at the back post. 2-0 Loughts and Mia and Anya had bagged their first Ladies hockey goals.

WF got a goal back and what felt like a million short corners to keep the Loughts team warm with shuttle runs from the half way line back to support defence, but there was no way through the defensive team of Nicky, Lydia, Claudia, Sophie and Amara plus countless saves from GK and joint player of the match Ava. Defence were supported by the hard working midfield of Anya, Maia, Evie, Martha and Mia. Siona and Ophelia made some great runs upfront and supported giving outlets and options throughout the game. A shout out to Evie in her First Ladies game who looked confident in a tackle and calm on the ball securing a well earned joint player of the match.

The sideline saw the team use of Jane’s mitts to warm freezing hands. With the pitch also freezing, it was a relief to get out of the cold warmed by a 2-1 victory.