1st Half
An entertaining game saw Upminster edged out 3-2 by Bishop Stortford, Keeper Charlotte Triggs (Defender of Match) was tested early on whilst Upminsters quick passing and movement began to create openings, Amy Byrne was forced wide as she went around the Keeper whilst Lucy Quinlan’s effort was just wide of the goal whilst two Penalty Corners were not capitalised on.
Stortford’s first PC saw them take the lead as the deflected strike evaded the defence as they came out.
With Quinlan, Caitlin Li, Falzon and Imogen Hodges keeping the pressure on the Stortford defence, Upminster were pressing for the equaliser but despite Upminster defenders Drew Bailey and Bella Boyle working tirelessly to restrict Stortford’s efforts they were unable to prevent Stortford from doubling their advantage from another PC as the goal bound effort found its way inside the post.
2nd Half
A strong start to the half by Stortford was seen off by Upminster’s defensive unit, Lucy Rolfe & Byrne linked up well earning two PCs from the 2nd Rolfe’s deft touch reduced the score on 43 Mins.
Overturning possession Stortford brought two good saves from Triggs whilst Li and Megan Miller continued to drive Upminster forward but both defences worked hard to restrict efforts.
A pulsating run out of defence by Boyle found Quinlan who in turn found Kerry Hodges whose sweeping effort from just inside the D was just wide of the goal.
With both teams looking for the next goal Stortford pressure earned two PCs in quick succession, despite Triggs saving the initial goal bound effort the rebound was finished off despite Pettingill efforts on the line.
As Byrne took the game forward play was contained in Stortford D the ball finding it way to Kerry Hodges who finished well through the crowd 2-3 on 57 Mins.
With both teams pushing for the next goal defences remained resolute and chances were limited.