Canterbury 1 Chelmsford 0

Slazenger English Hockey League Premier Division

Canterbury 1 Chelmsford 0

Chelmsford travelled to Canterbury in the knowledge that that due to injuries and international commitments, their squad was going to be pushed to the limits if they were to be able to get a point from this Slazenger EHL Premier Division fixture.

The visitors started brightly and had Canterbury defending for the first five minutes. Gradually, the Kent side began to produce some attacking plays of their own, but this was largely due to when Chelmsford made some weak passes which were easily intercepted. The first half was evenly matched, with most of the play being in the middle of the pitch as both sides fought for control and supremacy.

Previous encounters between these two sides have been close and have normally been settled by the odd goal. This match was to be no different and shortly after the re-start for the second half, Canterbury scored when their England international Mel Clewlow converted a penalty corner.

Canterbury took control of the second half and Chelmsford found it increasingly harder to play themselves out of defence into attack. A couple of fine saves by England's goalkeeper Katy Roberts ensured that the score remained at 1-0 and kept Chelmsford within a chance of levelling the score.

However, there was very little rhythm to Chelmsford's play and it looked as if the four squad members absent due to international duties and illness were going to take its toll on the team.

Chelmsford managed to regroup and put the home side under some sustained pressure for the last ten minutes, which resulted in a string of attacking penalty corners being won. The elusive goal was not forthcoming and Chelmsford finally lost 1-0.

With results from other league matches going in their favour, Chemsford remain in mid-table position and welcome current league leaders Slough to Chelmer Park on Saturday, start time 2pm.