This was a must win game against Redland UWE – who sit bottom of the league – after losing to them earlier in the season, thanks to a bumpy pitch.
Mendip started out strong, having lots of possession in their half. Mendip’s first goal came from a well-worked short corner routine, with Jess Baird firing one home from the top of the D.
Redland defence were being worked hard by the Mendip attack, keeping out some great shots, but at the half-time whistle, the score still stood at 1–0.
After a rousing half-time talk by Captain, Jackie Browning, the second half started well, with Amy McGovern sweeping one in from a well-timed pass from Emily Browning. This goal sparked Mendip, who were now in top gear and even more ready to attack, leading to a flurry of goals.
The Mendip forwards were missing two players after being snatched to the first team, leaving a usually-defensive Katie Browning to pick a goal from the back post after a reverse stick shot from Jackie, which was just edging wide. Moments later, Carol Holmes found space on the right, picking up the ball and completing a run down the wing, and upon hearing a ‘p-spot’ shout, passed it into the D. This was picked up again by Katie, who slotted it past the keeper. These two goals, along with her excellent out-of-position performance, earned her Player of the Match.
Mendip continued to press, with Carol Holmes turning goal scorer by hammering the ball against the back board. Mendip’s six goal tally was then completed by Emily, who lifted the ball over an outstretched keeper, after another attacking play by Mendip.
Redland had numerous attacking moments throughout the match all thwarted by a well-played defence, but they did manage to win a short corner in the closing stages. Their routine was executed well, leading to them getting onto the score sheet with a well-deserved goal.
Carrie Tiley