Sudbury Ladies III 1, Harwich and Dovercourt Ladies 1 Sudbury had this final opportunity to do their best to avoid relegation, and they were determined to give it their best.

Sudbury Ladies III 1, Harwich and Dovercourt Ladies 1

Sudbury had this final opportunity to do their best to avoid relegation, and they were determined to give it their best.

Both teams started well, moving the ball but failing to capitalise on possession with the final shot. Several penetrating attacks stretched the Sudbury defence, but they held up under the pressure - Eulalie Mayers commanding from the centre-back position. Anna Cooper held her player well, giving her little opportunity to get into the circle, and Mishka Mayers made a valiant effort to hold on the left, despite being pulled out of position, which could have caused problems had it not been for the tenacious work of Abi Alston, in support. Chloe Mills skilfully brought the ball out, to put Sudbury back into attack. Amy Harrington, once again, was awesome in goal, confidently clearing the ball when it did get through.

With the luxury of Mandy Coleman, managing the team from the sideline, quick and regular substitutions kept the Harwich team on their toes, and the game was still for the taking at half-time, at 0-0.

Sudbury broke early after the interval and attacked through Amanda Mills, in midfield. Ella Rodwell and Jane St Ledger were unlucky not to go one ahead. India Fitch-Holland and Ashley Farthing were always solid in support.

It was on the return of Jo Hebb to the field, only 10 minutes into the second half, an attack down the right through Stephens was fed across the D, missed by the defender, and Jo Hebb reverse-sticked the ball into the goal.

With just five minutes left Harwich equalised, which was a fair reflection of play - and a fitting end to a season which has seen some 30 players represent the thirds; eight injured regular players; and most weeks, at least seven youngsters representing the team.