Okehampton Columbines 2
Tavistock 2
THIS local derby hockey match was important to both teams' league positions as the end of the season approaches.
In the first half the pendulum swung from end to end with neither side gaining the advantage until, in the last minute, Tavistock's Fiona Dunn had a run with the ball up the pitch. It was crossed to Becky Wallace who switched it to Sue Cork. She fed a good ball to Judy Smallacombe who slipped it past the keeper.
Tavistock's midfield of Kath Collar, Becky Wallace, Sue Hornby and Sandra Collar prevented play from penetrating the D too many times which allowed them to move the ball up the pitch to have numerous shots at goal.
The second half saw Okehampton very much on the attack and Tavistock gave away numerous short corners. Keeper Rebecca Creasy kept her cool and deflected any shot at goal.
The second goal was again scored by Smallacombe who was slipped a ball from Rebecca Hutton and made it 2-0 to Tavistock.
Despite the excellent battling of Okehampton's three halves, Jane Jones, Caroline Friend and Alex Collins, and numerous short corners, the team could not score. Then Jo Moppett's constant vigilance paid off at last as she beat Tavistock's goalie.
Tavistock had only six minutes to hold off the Okehampton forwards.
A second goal was won by Okehampton when a swift and accurate cross from Sue Stanbury was picked up by wing Sandi Douglas with a beautiful shot and a goal.
Tavistock's effective through-passing, supported by the constant blast of their captain, Fiona Dunn, and Okehampton's whole team determination made the final result of 2-2 a fair outcome.
Player of the match: Sue Cork.
This Saturday Tavistock are at home to Mannamead 2 with a 12.30pm push back. Okehampton meets Plymouth Seconds next week in the league at home at 4pm.
l Action from the game is pictured — Okehampton are in the quartered shirts.