So close, and yet so far

With only 10 players confirmed just a few hours before the game, Marlborough 2s travelled to Devizes expecting a tough match. Saved by super-mum Becky Ford we actually headed onto the pitch with a sub to spare. Devizes struck out hard with wave after wave of attack, but the Marlborough defence stood firm. Tori Williams made some great tackles in the centre of the pitch, while Katie King, Becky and Sarah Kendall swept up the remnants of attacks, leaving only some minor footwork for goalie Lou Gostling. As we staved off the attacks the team grew in confidence, and Marlborough gradually turned the pressure dial up against Devizes. Fi Baillie, Jo Henry and Millie Prentice worked the ball up the pitch to the forwards, but no goals were forthcoming. The first half ended 0-0.

The second half started hard, with both teams determined to take the lead. 10 minutes into the second half Devizes scored, but Marlborough quickly rebounded. Verity Langfield dribbled the ball hard up the pitch, and with a swift pass Meg Aujla scored to bring the scoreline 1-1. Phew! Marlborough continued to play some outstanding hockey. Every player was at the top of their game, and the inners and forwards worked hard to support the defence. The end of the match was approaching and a point seemed within reach against this formidable side. But disaster struck. Barely 5 minutes from the end of the game Devizes scored a second goal. Then a third. Then a fourth. And to add injury to insult Sarah Kendall suffered a nasty knock to the thumb resulting in hospitalisation. So let's forget the last 5 minutes!

The match was an outstanding performance and a great team effort, shown in the variety of nominations (8 players nominated and no-one with more than 2 votes), so POTM goes to - EVERYONE! Better luck next time.