A win secures a second season in Premier Division 2A

A season that started with the loss of nine players from the ladies 1st XI, was always going to be tough but when entering the premier divisions, our hopes of capitalising on that success felt bleak, however the remaining squad was full of fighting spirit and that was to be our saving grace.

The last match to be played in Prem 2A, was set to be a nail-biter, a draw would mean both teams stayed up but a loss by either team mean relegation. Unsurprisingly the fight was furious from the start. Marlborough started confidently putting Swanage under pressure immediately but Swanage responded well and Marlborough were unable to capitalise on any opportunities, even though they won a couple of short corners. Swanage were very solidly through the middle and had some good speed upfront, so were dangerous on a quick turnover. The Marlborough defence found themselves busy closing down attacks and clearing balls but some great tackles by the back line including, Sian Parks, Sarah Kendall, Vanessa Pickford and Katie King meant all their efforts were thwarted. Having trained some set moves for 16 yard hits, Marlborough transferred well around the back and a solid performance by centre mid Rachel Cox meant the ball was distributed well on both sides. Despite the efforts of both sides, the first half ended nil-nil.

Marlborough came out hard and focussed in the second half, as Marlborough piled on the pressure, Swanage's tiredness started to show. Marlborough attacked well from all sides, some excellent runs by Martha Franks, Kat Fuller and captain Anna Scott down the right, supported by Vanessa Pickford at right back, created opportunities on goal and Marlborough was able to play the ball round through mid-field and transfer well to create space. It was Catherine Manley who managed to set the scoring off with a well placed shot to the bottom right. Penny Bowen, Catherine Manley and Vikki Hill linked up well on the left and fed Alex Crosby-Jones well, creating some fantastic drives on goal. Finally a short corner opportunity and a well rehearsed set move back to the injector, saw Rachel Cox bury the ball in the back of the net to bring the score to 2-0. Although Swanage, looked dangerous on the break, they were not able to capitalise, ably closed down a solid Marlborough back line, and nothing was getting past goalie Vicky Moxham today, who made some excellent clearances. A fight to the end but despite several other chances, the game finished 2 - 0 to Marlborough, securing their spot in Prem 2A for next season and leaving them with a final league placing of 7th. An amazing achievement given the loss of so many players and all credit to a hard working team, with a fantastic fighting spirit.

The Marlborough News Online Man of the Match was Sian Parks for her excellent tackling and solid defending.