Ooh Matron (Derriford Hospital) 2
Tavistock Tigers 1
TAVISTOCK came into this game third in the league but knew if they won their game in hand and their remaining fixtures they would finish champions.
They played the match in searing heat with one player short but were unlucky to go down 2-1.
Tavistock's best moments in the first half came at the beginning as new player Alford was all over the pitch making things happen for the away side.
A fine run from Copland set up Gaspar who was unlucky not to open for Tavistock but gradually Derriford began to impose themselves and make the extra player tell.
The home side opened the scoring as their attacker had his shot initially well saved by 'keeper Osbourne only for the ball to be skillfully dinked over the stranded 'keeper.
Derriford doubled their lead before half time when a free hit was well saved by Osbourne only for the captain, Tetley, to follow up and slot the ball into the goal.
The second half was all Tavistock as Derriford were restricted to just a couple of breakaway chances. Great work from Sarah and Harry Macmanus on the right produced a couple of guilt edged chances for Copland and Smallacombe. Finally Tavistock got the goal they deserved when Gaspar converted after a succession of short corners.
Unfortunately there was not enough time for the Tigers to grab the equaliser, but the second half performance was a real credit to the whole team, particularly considering the heat!