Womens 1 Vs Lowestoft Ladies 1  

A long journey to Lowestoft and a crucial game for an in-form Saints side in their bid to secure League 1 status for another season.  Saints initially retained possession, but struggled to progress up the pitch and the home side won the ball, played a cross into the circle and clinically fastened on to the rebound to take the lead in the opening 5 minutes. Saints responded well, beginning to create opportunities as they attacked with speed and intensity. Player of the match Millie Payne, enjoying her best 1st X1 game to date, was unfortunate to see her reverse stick shot cleared off the goal line, but shortly afterwards Kirsty McKenzie equalised with a sharp finish following Kelly Bingham`s penetrative run and astute pass. Within a couple of minutes Saints lead when Tanya Sargeant`s fierce penalty corner strike was deflected in to goal off a defenders foot. Mel Harding was called in to action to maintain Saints narrow advantage, going in to the interval, smothering well on the edge of the circle as Lowestoft`s pacey right wing threatened.

Generally Saints were in the ascendency in the second half, but despite their best efforts they couldn`t find a third goal that would likely settle the contest. Lowestoft threatened on the break, but Saints defended well - with Catherine Keey playing an important role as Bev Read succumbed to injury, enjoying a steady debut in the Saints defence. Indeed an excellent spirited display from the whole squad who overcame an early setback and injuries to register an important win.

With just 2 games of the season now remaining, Saints will be aiming for a victory in their last home game of the season against Sudbury (1pm Longsands) next Saturday - which would secure their league status, for another season, irrespective of results elsewhere.