Plymouth University 2

Tavistock ladies firsts 2

TAVISTOCK made the short journey to Plymouth for this top of the table hockey clash with the newly promoted students.

Going into the game, Tavistock were tied on nine points with three other sides including their match day opponents.

The students made the brighter start forcing a number of early short corners, despite the pressure the Reds' defence held strong with keeper Zoe Viggers looking hard to beat in goal.

Due to the unavailability of Jo Gaspar, Becky Lamb, Robynne Fenwick, Susannah Boulle and Meg Benton there was a new look to the Reds' line-up. The most notable change was usual centre back Elz Mills-Hicks moving into midfield where she put in a solid performance and earned player of the match.

Tavistock took the lead mid way through the first half thanks to forward Sarah Law's reverse stick effort. The goal gave Tavistock the confidence boost they needed and they soon started to create a number of further chances.

A fast counter attack early in the second half saw Patterson and Mills-Hicks link well in midfield before putting Law through on goal, a great first touch eliminated the final defender before a clinical finish from Law gave the Reds a deserved 2-0 lead.

Tavistock found themselves under increased pressure, the situation was not helped when the Reds lost centre back Jenny Pollock to an ankle injury.

With just 10 minutes remaining the students were awarded a penalty corner which they converted to set a nervous finish to the game then with just 4 minutes left they found themselves with time and space in midfield and were able to pick out a forward in the D who was able to fire the ball past Viggers in goal and earn a share of the points.