Okehampton Columbines Ladies 2
Mannamead Ladies Seconds 1
THE Okehampton Ladies' Hockey first team seems to have been beset by injury and illness all this season. This last league match had a crowd of spectators made from the walking wounded while the team on the pitch were nursing a variety of injuries.
This possibly contributed to a bit of a diffident approach in the first half but the team was strengthened by the return of Abi Colton from university, whose energetic and skilful play reminded everyone what an asset she is.
Even with their hesitation Okehampton dominated the first half and it was a shock moment when Mannamead broke through and scored to go into the lead.
It was a relief to Okehampton that finally one of their attacks paid off. Time and again Okehampton had been in the Mannamead circle but determined defence kept them out.
It was Alex Collins who came to the rescue for the home side, catching the ball at an awkward angle and with a reverse stick scooping the ball past the goalie to equalise.
Okehampton took stock at half time and realised that they were not making best use of their width and the second half saw a more measured and determined approach.
Hannah Whiteley and Viv Weatherington played their hearts out as the two inners, supporting both attack and defence. Sandy Douglas undertook several more attacks at goal which started from her left back position. Jo Moppett's wizardly skilful attacking solo runs continued to daunt an increasingly desperate Mannamead side but to no avail.
Despite Okehampton getting numerous short corners the dogged Mannamead defence did not let them through. On a few occasions Mannamead did break through and one of their few short corners was given short thrift by an excellent and confident clearance by Sophie Whiteley in goal. Finally Jo Moppett managed to shake off sufficient defenders to get a clean strike at goal to make it 2-1 to the Columbines.
The tempo did not decrease after this and both teams continued to play with fire and determination but it was Okehampton who left the field the winners in their final league game.
l The Columbines play a friendly at home against Okehampton Men's Seconds on April 18 starting at 11.30am.