Womens 1 Vs St Ives 1

It was a close, hard earned, home derby day victory for St Neots against their local rivals St Ives. After initial attacks from the visitors, St Neots gained the upper hand, particularly when Captain Emma Ritchie seized control of the ball in the circle to give Saints the lead with a strong finish. Shortly afterwards Emma nearly increased Saints lead with the ball going agonisingly past the far post. However, just before half-time, Kirsty McKenzie doubled St Neots lead with a close range finish – her first league goal for the team.

The visitors responded well, dominating the first 15 minutes of the second half. After a series of penalty corners they were awarded a penalty stroke which was converted to reduce the arrears. As the game moved in to the final quarter St Neots re-asserted themselves and looked the most likely scorers with Emma Ritchie again going close and Kelly Bingham firing just wide.

Player of the match honours went to youngster Tanya Sargeant for an excellent energetic and controlled display. The 2-1 victory means St Neots have made a promising start to their first Division 1 campaign, currently sitting just in the top half of the early season league table. Next week they face a tough away game at Newmarket who were close rivals for last seasons league 2 (NW) championship.