Mendip Hockey Club’s first game of the season was played on a sunny morning at Norton Hill. Fired up and ready for action, Mendip dominated from the start, with a fine display of teamwork.
The first goal came from open play and saw centre forward, Carol Holmes, sidestep the keeper to drive the ball over the line. Before the half-time whistle, Mendip doubled their score with a well-executed short corner routine. Sarah Whittaker, in a rare trip to the attacking D, cracked the ball from the edge, smashing it straight past the keeper into the backboard.
Frome came out stronger in the second half, but despite their best efforts, they were unable to stop the Mendip juggernaut. Recently moved from the junior section, Megan Carey started her senior career at right wing, and gave 100% from start to finish. In a textbook move, she ran the ball to the back line before lifting it over a Frome stick, to reach Carol Holmes, who struck it home.
Carey claimed the fourth goal after she picked up a rebound from the keeper, who did well to save the initial shot from Ella Constable. Claiming her hattrick and sealing the deal for Mendip, Carol Holmes converted a team effort of passing that had started deep in the Mendip D and made the final scoreline 5–0.
Player of the Match went to Megan Carey. Thanks to Mendip coach, Max Spalton, for shouting advice throughout the game and the umpires.
Mendip continue the pre-league warm up on Saturday, with a match against Shepton at 1 p.m.
Carrie Tiley