Last game of a fantastic season

After last week's win over West Wilts which saw the team clinch the 2nd in the league spot this final game of the season against the league winners Bournemouth was an opportunity for Marlborough to go out, relax and play some great hockey. As the game was scheduled for a 10am pushback it was a very early o'clock meet at the pitches . After a good intense warm up in the sunshine Marlborough were ready for the battle ahead . Straight from the push back Marlborough had the majority of the possession with great attacking work by Catherine Manley, 'Savage' Pickford-Smith, Sophie Fynn, Rachel Cox, Millie Dawson plus Alice Fanshawe who within the first minute won a short corner. However the Bournemouth keeper proved to be very difficult to get around. With end to end action Marlborough had the majority of the possession but their goalie unfortunately proved to be in excellent form saving many shots on goal . On a couple of occasions Marlborough managed to beat the goalkeeper but unfortunately a defender managed to stop the ball 3 times dead on the line. Just before half time Bournemouth slotted in a nicely worked  short corner. 1-0 to Bournemouth but Marlborough hadn't travelled this far not to put up a fight.
After a good half time talk from the injured captain Penny Bowen Marlborough came out fighting. They started the second half very strongly with defensive play by Anna Scott and her ducklings. Bournemouth broke through and attacked and Chloe Darlington in goal was kept very busy making some phenomenal saves and keeping Marlborough in the game. The passing, distribution and possession play was the best Marlborough have been all season and Bournemouth said it was the best game they have played this year. Marlborough battled hard to equal the score but a goal was not forthcoming. Bournemouth sealed the victory with a goal just before the final whistle.
After travelling all that way Savage was not happy when it was announced there were no teas.
All said this has been a fantastic season for the team with the heartbreak of the relegation last year finally put to bed. To finish 2nd in a tough league when at Christmas the side sat in 7th spot shows a fighting spirit and great determination. The incredible team spirit has carried this side through the ups and downs of this season and the team aim for 2017/2018 is to be league winners. The team are now looking forward to celebrating at the end of the season dinner
Marlborough News Online man of the Match went to Chloe Darlington .