A combined 2nd XI / 3rd XI played against Clayesmore on the Upper pitch in a game that seemed to have everything. This was a new team, due to the numerous other extra activities going on yesterday, but they got together right from the start and played some excellent hockey. Our ability to play the ball through channels and in triangles in the middle section of the pitch was fantastic. We looked dangerous when we moved the ball forward and the girls were working really hard to increase the pace on the ball, even on a very slow pitch. As a newly formed team, we struggled slightly with our shape and press, but this allowed us a little more freedom up front to get into the Clayesmore D. Sherborne took the lead through a goal mouth scramble, but we had already not been able to capitalise on numerous good entries into the D. Clayesmore's keeper was very good and keep our attempts at bay. Clayesmore started to utilise the long ball more, finding the gaps in our shape. As the game continued they started to get a larger foothold in the game. A well taken break from them resulted in the equaliser, however, we still were having good opportunities at the other end to get back in front. Clayesmore's second goal was from a quick break and resulted in one of their players sustaining an injury to the face. It was decided that the game wasn't to continue from this point. We hope their player makes a full recovery.

It was a disappointing result from our point of view. To have played such excellent hockey in the middle of the pitch and create really good opportunities, we need the players to have more composure in the D and look to play around the keeper.

I am very proud of how well the girls played yesterday, I am hopeful that we can start to take our chances in the game, which will give us the wins that we want.