Caradon 5

Okehampton Columbines Ladies' Hockey Club 1

WITH three regular attackers out through injury most of the team played in unfamiliar positions and these factors created some challenges for Okehampton at this league match at Liskeard.

The frisky ball turned a reasonably safe cross in Okehampton's circle to a waist high projectile that bounced off several people then into the goal for Caradon's first.

There was some great individual play from Okehampton but they struggled to keep their shape. Viv Weatherington had an excellent game, both supporting the pressured defence and leading several attacks with her weaving wizardry. Sandy Douglas fought through the pain of a cannon ball shot in the leg — which took her off the pitch for a while — with her own brand of firepower which could take the ball from one end of the pitch to the other.

Okehampton reverted to their more familiar formation of four halves and Jane Jones played a masterly game with great skill and control. Jenny Humphrey won some great battles with the attacking right of Caradon. Carol Taylor played assertively in the centre. Sarah Jones demonstrated control and intelligence under pressure and several times it looked as if the experience and expertise of Alex Collins would pay dividends.

Okehampton's foot problem led to a penalty flick which was wonderfully saved by goalie Sophie Whiteley but the first half ended with Okehampton 3-0 down.

Okehampton calmed down for the second half and Rachel Hammet did sterling work as she moved from playing left back to right wing.

Kim Davey, centre forward, was unlucky not to score as she led attacks in her maiden game for the first team. Caradon remained powerful on their corners and two sledgehammer strikes both found the backboard.

In the meantime Okehampton's team work finally paid off and Weatherington was able to pass the goalie, finishing off a good team effort.

A last short corner from Caradon was at head height and Sophie Whiteley again rose to the occasion, just getting her hand to it so that it went over the crossbar.

This was Okehampton's last match before Christmas and they play again on January 3 at Paignton when they intend to come out fighting.