Poynton 2 Ipswich 0

Slazenger EHL

Premier League

Poynton 2 Ipswich 0

A DISAPPOINTING 2-0 defeat to Poynton saw Ipswich remain firmly in the relegation play-off spot with one game to go before the indoor break.

The game started in horrible weather conditions with the cold and wet Manchester rain soaking both teams. It was the home side that started the better with Ipswich looking slightly off the pace.

Despite the slow start Ipswich worked hard to put the home side under pressure and the game turned into a mid pitch battle. However it was Poynton that created the best first-half chances and only some great saves by Mariette Rix in the Ipswich goal kept the home side out.

Half time saw Ipswich regroup and they started the second half in a much more positive mood. Both Chloe Hunnable and Emma Lee-Smith had good reverse shot attempts on goal but neither quite found the target.

Then on the 41st minute Ipswich were undone. A sweeping move by the home side resulted in defender Mille Sharp being struck on the body in front of goal. A penalty stroke was rightly awarded and Poynton striker Helen Armishaw made no mistake from the spot.

Ipswich now had to chase the game but they worked tirelessly and when 11 minutes later Poynton scored their second it was against the run of play.

Despite working hard the Suffolk side could not find a way through the at times cynical Poynton defence and it was a massively disappointed Ipswich side that had to accept the 2-0 defeat.

Ipswich now welcome bottom of the table Chelmsford to Tuddenham Road on Saturday in a crucial game.