England Hockey League

Women’s Conference East

WHILST Chelmsford’s recent results have been disappointing, especially as so much positive hockey has been played, this match showed how the squad’s skills and commitment place them in the top regions of the league. Sevenoaks started the stronger side and their pressure earned a short corner in the third minute. Not able to score from this Sevenoaks kept up the attacking play but Chelmsford’s defence held firm.

As the game progressed Chelmsford came forward, with Loren Sherer and Beth Wild stretching the Sevenoaks defence. Excellent midfield work by Sarah Bolton and Kat Hales, interchanging with the equally effective Louisa Taylor and Becky Budd, gave Chelmsford scope to build attacks and the back line of Jess Ecott, Marie Arber and Rosie Patterson found their confidence building. It was unfortunate that in a Sevenoaks rally forward, Chelmsford conceded a penalty stroke and Sevenoaks took the lead.

Chelmsford continued their efforts on Sevenoaks goal and as the half time break approached, won three short corners but without score.

After the restart, Chelmsford looked strong and confident but Sevenoaks, as league leaders, had come to Chelmer Park seeking a win. Again they were frustrated by Chelmsford’s sound defending and half way through the half Chelmsford struck back with a magnificent goal.

From the back line Jess Ecott swept the ball across the field to Rosie Patterson on the right flank. Smartly advancing forward, Patterson cracked a full-blooded pass to Loren Sherer whose deft one-touch deflection found Georgia Herron motoring forward in support. Switching the ball square across the D, Herron placed an inch-perfect pass to Beth Wild in space and she coolly swept the ball home.

Both teams responded strongly in the final minutes seeking all three points but largely cancelling each other out, for an exciting and hard fought game to finish 1-1.

Chelmsford’s next match is away to Cambridge City on Sunday, February 27 starting at 12.30pm.