Womens 1 Vs St Ives 1

Derby day for Saints with the short journey to face local rivals St Ives extended as we negotiated flooded roads. As expected the home side were in determined mood, looking to avenge their narrow pre-Christmas defeat at Longsands. Indeed St Ives made the better start with Mel Harding saving well to keep St Ives at bay, early doors. This warning wasn`t unfortunately heeded and soon after the home side seized on a rebound to take the lead. This woke Saints from their slumbers and they increasingly threatened with fast breaks. The equaliser came when Kate Clark (embarrassingly sporting Lisa`s daughter - young Taylar Gibbie`s astro shoes – she had forgot her own!), expertly deflected the ball home. Saints increasing pressure lead to several penalty corner awards and they took the lead shortly before the interval following a powerful Mary Richardson penalty corner strike.

Saints stated the second period well, but stand-in Captain Kelly Bingham wasn’t able to apply the finish to a couple of excellent breaks. This encouraged St Ives who ended the match in the ascendency, pressing for an equaliser. It was all hands on deck with Kate Clark and Paula Bingham side-lined with injuries, following a competitive encounter, but Saints held firm with some good saves from Mel Harding - to secure a hard-earned victory with a very determined and spirited display.

Player of the match honours went to Mary Richardson - not only for her decisive goal, but also for a very strong performance at the heart of the Saints midfield. Next weekend Saints will be looking to maintain their excellent start to 2018 when they entertain Newmarket - 1pm at Longsands.