Watton 2 IES 2

NE14 Hockey East League

Division 1N

Watton 2 Ipswich East Suffolk 2

Ipswich East Suffolk were left frustrated by the weather and the umpiring in their game against Watton on Saturday.

It was set to be a competitive game but a stick tackle warning within the first five minutes to both captains signalled an afternoon of interrupted play.

Both teams were bemused by the warning but continued to play, with Watton pushing forward but being held by a strong IES defence.

As the game continued, IES paid for a lack of focus when Watton eventually found a way through and went one up.

IES soon came back, passing the ball well in midfield with some good work by Abigail Adams and Shelley Pleasence, but couldn't make the forward pressure pay and soon Watton were another goal up.

Undeterred, IES came back again and after a goal mouth scramble Anne Edney seemed to have pulled a goal back but even after awarding the goal the umpire changed his mind and signalled a hit out.

IES continued to press forward and were finally rewarded with a stunning goal by newcomer Lucy Bliss.

The second half demonstrated much of the same play but IES's strong character once again came to the fore and Edney finally got the goal that drew the match.

Although disappointed, IES can be proud of a draw considering the conditions and will be looking forward to the return match after Christmas.