Womens 1 Vs Norwich City 1

After the long cold-weather and Xmas break, 2018 started with a busy weekend for Saints with away trips to face Norwich City on Saturday and Wisbech on Sunday.

2nd placed Norwich City 1st X1 started quickly, but Saints were soon into their stride, troubling Norwich with the speed of their counter-attacks. Clear chances for both sides were, however, at a premium. As the first half drew to a close Norwich began to dominate possession and took the lead as they seized on a rebound from the first penalty corner of the game.

Disappointed to be trailing, but encouraged by their strong first half showing, Saints began the second period in the ascendancy. From their first penalty corner Saints equalised when a strong strike from Eleanor Pybus was expertly deflected home by Kirsty McKenzie. Play switched from end to end as both teams strived for openings. In the final 10 minutes Norwich again began to dominate possession - but Saints defended determinedly, including successfully negotiating a barrage of Norwich penalty corners.

So an excellent, determined and spirited display was rewarded with a hard-earned point for Saints - who will be aiming to build on this result in the coming games. Player of the match was very keenly contested following such a strong performance from the whole squad - but Bev Read just took the plaudits for her commanding display at the heart of the Saints defence.