Okehampton ladies’ thirds 0

Mannamead ladies’ firsts 7

OKEHAMPTON ladies’ third team knew this fixture would be a stern test for them as two seasons ago the Mannamead team were playing two divisions higher but due to injuries they had dropped leagues rapidly. Their team had now returned to full strength of experienced players in sharp contrast to the inexperienced Oke team.

Oke were playing a more defensive formation to try and thwart the strong Mannamead attack. Centre back Hannah Hawes had an outstanding game tackling strongly and using her powerful hit to clear the ball out of defence. The Oke keeper was forced to make some acrobatic saves and with the home side’s determined play they had only conceded three goals by half time.

The weather conditions were deteriorating quickly with strong winds and driving rain sapping the players’ energy. Oke stayed focussed and began to play their game in the second half with accurate passing and good support play from their player of the match, Molly Marvin. Unfortunately Hannah Hawes had to leave the pitch to be treated for injuries sustained from a collision with a Mannamead player leaving Okehampton weakened in defence.

Mannamead quickly capitalised on this and hammered home two more goals before Hawes returned to the pitch.

The Oke forwards gained in confidence with Maddie Arden making several penetrating runs forcing Mannamead back to defend, but Oke could not convert this pressure into goals.

Mannamead’s slick penalty corner routines saw them increase their lead by another goal but Oke did successfully defend several more penalty corners.

The visitor’s final goal came from a sizzling solo run beating both the Oke defence and goalie.