Okehampton Columbines 2

Plymouth 1

COLUMBINES hockey team have had a difficult season this year, rarely being able to field the same team from one week to the next.

As a result Okehampton played the first half with a lack of belief. Plymouth's passing was crisper and they retained possession better.

Plymouth's goal came from a good free hit which was deflected leaving Okehampton's goalkeeper no chance.

The second half was a different story. Okehampton's passing improved, they were sharper and quicker on the ball. Debbie Pritchard pushed up in midfield to link the defence and forwards, which gave Columbines more passing options.

Jane Jones tackled strongly to cut out Plymouth's right attack and real teamwork began to give Okehampton the edge.

A wave of attacks on Plymouth's goal led to a short corner and a strike from Sue Stanbury provided the equaliser.

Kelly Cooper had made a number of skilful solo runs and deserved to score the second. It came from a quickly taken free hit by Alex Collins which Cooper banged into the corner of the goal.

Sharon Parsons had to make some important saves in goal, but in the end Okehampton just about deserved the win after a good second half performance.

Okehampton are at home in the League this week, against another side from Plymouth — Mannamead.

Okehampton Columbine Seconds 4

Exeter Ladies IV 3

IN this friendly match on Mother's Day the hockey was fast and furious. Both teams were down to ten players but made up for the lack of numbers in enthusiasm.

Exeter's team had more experience on its side and demonstrated good teamwork through effective passing which led to several dangerous attacks. They were swift on the ball and it took a while for Okehampton to match the pace.

Alison Ewen made a welcome return and worked well with the regular dynamic duo of Jo Moppett and Kelly Cooper as an attacking force with Kelly scoring twice. They were well supported by Elaine Morgan at centre half and able to feed through several attacking passes. Okehampton's three new players, Clare Parsons, Rebecca Law and Rosie Pritchard, played with intelligence and commitment.

The first half was fairly evenly balanced with two goals all. Both teams had several strikes in the second half but Exeter scored two more. Then in the final minutes Jo Moppett went out at full stretch for a cross from Kelly Cooper and touched it into goal.