Mendip travelled to Bristol to commence the second half of their league campaign looking for a better result against Old B’s than they had had in the return fixture. On that occasion, they suffered a defeat by four goals, so the fact that only one goal separated the teams this time was some crumb of comfort.
The first half remained goalless, with the two teams equally matched in all areas of the pitch and end to end hockey action. Mendip’s Collins sisters both put in great performances to keep their team in contention. Olivia was strong at the back and Maddy made great progress down the left wing. Right back Jess Baird’s play was also noteworthy, with precise tackles and great distribution of the ball.
With both teams having chances to score, it was the home team who finally broke the deadlock to score ten minutes from the end. Undeterred, Mendip did not let their heads go down and stepped up the pressure in attack, but could not find the back of the net before the final whistle.
Mendip’s player of the match was Captain Jackie Browning, who led her team by example, working tirelessly in midfield supporting both defence and attack.
Next week, Mendip stay home in Midsomer Norton to face Jaspers at Norton Hill School for a 10.30 a.m. start.
The First Team, who had their last fixture postponed, will play Wimborne at home at 1.30 p.m. and the Third team will be away to Bristol Bluebirds at 11 a.m.
Karen Inns