Middies’ final mixed league match before the Xmas break was a tight, floodlit encounter characterised by excellent performances from the home sides’ ladies.

There was a positive start when Heine arrived before the match even started and he celebrated the much awaited return of his precious tray with an excellent all-round performance. Similarly, both the young keepers deserve a mention for solid performances and Murray keeping a clean sheet with some accomplished kicking throughout the match.

The first 20 mins were very even but finally Middies broke the deadlock through from a Matt A fierce cross that Sofie slapped in first time after a “crucial” touch from Andy Shannon. This was the only goal before half time despite a number of swift sweeping moves from the Reds.

Ten minutes into the second half home side pressure told with a sweet Poppy Bartlett finish from a short corner. Then Leya (who knew she’d been away!) scored her first with a lovely run into the D, shaming her “committed“ male defender and then scooping into the net. As the clock wound down the magic of Leya struck again as she again blew past the defence, heading obliquely across the D and then fired back across the goal burying the ball once again.

A lot of great performances with special mention for Poppy, playing at centre half for long periods, filling Sofie’s huge shoes with aplomb. At the back Hannah and Fi dealt with everything thrown at them and it was lovely to see Abi helping her Mum relieve the occasional pressure on Middies defence.

So, very much a day for the ladies but the whole team played the match with determination and the spirit demanded of our Mixed team. Our gratitude once again to umpire/campanologist Andrew Hough.

Played 4, Won 4. Happy Days ?
Thank you to everyone who has played - It’s been a pleasure!