Mendip Ladies Seconds 1 Gillingham 3

On Saturday, Mendip Hockey’s Ladies Seconds were looking to leapfrog their opponents Gillingham Seconds, to take fourth position in the league, but unfortunately the game did not unfold as planned.

A shaky first ten minutes from Mendip proved enough to give Gillingham an early upper hand, with the two goals scored by Gillingham in this time more than Mendip could recover from.

After finding their composure, Mendip looked to reduce Gillingham’s lead. Using simple but clever passing, which had worked so well for Mendip in previous weeks, Mendip was able to maintain possession and apply pressure on their opponent’s defence. This pressure was rewarded when Captain, Jackie Browning, saw an opportunity to make a driving run from midfield toward goal.

Reading the game, Connie Glover used her speed to be in the right position to receive Browning’s cross, and sweep the ball into the goal for Mendip’s only goal of the game. Gillingham were quick to respond, again, making use of their skillful centre forward to score their third and final goal shortly before half-time.

The teams were equally matched in the second half with opportunities on goal for both teams. Player of the Match, Carrie Tiley, ensured any further shots on goal by Gillingham would not be rewarded. With the Gillingham defence showing the same determination in response to Mendip’s attacking play.

Next week sees Mendip travel to Frome to take on the First team of their local rivals, who currently sit at the top of their league.

Sarah Whittaker