NE14Hockey East Women's LeagueDivision 1NColchester 4 Ipswich II 1COLCHESTER sealed promotion with three games to spare after a comfortable win over local rivals on Saturday.

NE14Hockey East Women's League

Division 1N

Colchester 4 Ipswich II 1

COLCHESTER sealed promotion with three games to spare after a comfortable win over local rivals on Saturday.

Colchester knew that a draw would be enough for promotion against third placed Ipswich, but a win was the home side's only thought and were positive from the start.

The opening 10 minutes saw both teams moving the ball around the midfield and creating half chances, but it was Colchester who broke the deadlock and immediately eased the pressure on themselves. Some quick play up front created space for Lucy Struth to power away on the half volley, giving the Ipswich keeper no chance.

Minutes later the lead had doubled after more good work by the Colchester forwards. The ball fell loose in front of the goal, where Emma Cresswell-Maynard was on had to tap in.

The home side were now in control of the game and it wasn't long before a third had been scored. Some fine individual play and determination found Helen Barnes diving for the ball and slotting away from an improbable angle. The score remained 3-0 to Colchester going into half time.

With a comfortable lead the home side lost a little concentration at the start of the second half, which Ipswich were keen to take advantage of. After some continued pressure the visitor's were awarded a penalty corner which was powerfully struck into the right corner of the goal pegging the score back to 3-1.

This acted as a wake up call to Colchester who responded immediately after being awarded a penalty corner of their own. The ball was slipped right to Karen Harris whose drive and pull back found Lucy Struth who made no mistake from close range.

At 4-1 the game was all but over and all the home side had to do was see out the final quarter of play. Having done so comfortably the final whistle blew and Colchester were left to celebrate promotion to the East Premier league.