Another point in the bag

marlborough ladies 1s travelled to Salisbury on the back of a last second winning opposition goal in the previous game.

Marlborough started with purpose and continually penetrated Salisbury's defence time and time again in the first 10 minutes. It wasn't long before the defence was pulled apart by Jess Pugh, who dribbled in from the right hand side past 2 defenders before calmly slotting the ball past the keeper. 1-0. GOAL. This was going to be the game to put to bed last weeks demons surely? Before the celebrations were over, Salisbury hit back immediately. The 16yd press was broken and 2 passes later the ball was in the back of the net. Route one hockey at its best. GOAL.

Emotions were high and Vanessa Pickford-Smith was green carded for remonstrating with the umpire. Time to regroup and adjust the formation. Marlborough soaked up the pressure in midfield and GK Vicky Moxham remained unchalleged. With 11 ladies back on the pitch Marlborough continued to attack as they had in the first quarter, but Salisbury's keeper stood tall and produced save after save.

The second half brought substitutions and a determination to win. A short corner strike from Rachel Cox thundered into the right hand corner early on and Marlborough looked favourites to win. GOAL. But with 15 minutes to go Salisbury were awarded a short corner, and the ball was fired into the top of the net. After a discussion between the umpires, the goal was given due to a deflection off the defenders stick. GOAL. Once again Marlborough's lead wiped out.

Marlborough lost their shape a little, and Salisbury were able to exploit it, with dangerous runs down both the right and left of the pitch. It seemed the tide had turned and Salisbury were hungry for the win. Once again Marlborough were caught on the break. The ball was passed wide and the Salisbury forward sped down the wing passing 2 defenders before firing it across for a free player to slot the ball in. Vicky Moxham was left helpless.

Marlborough knew time was not on their side and pummelled Salisbury with attack after attack then finally a quick ball was taken and a one two from Vanessa Pickford-Smith and Janeve Beer resulted in a short corner which was converted by Millie Dawson. Straight off the training field, a textbook goal. GOAL.

Despite 3 further attacks and another short corner, Marlborough were unable to grab a last minute winner. From a game of dominant possession it was a disappointing draw. But with 7 goals and 4 points from the first three games of the season , the team knows what it needs to work on and get the much deserved wins.

Marlborough News Online Man of the Match was Rachel Cox for her goal and fantastic distribution in midfield.