Plymouth University thirds 3

Okehampton ladies’ thirds 1

THE visitors took time to settle and to get accustomed to the bouncy pitch.

Plymouth University were quick to make the most of this advantage with their nippy attackers using the width of the pitch to stretch the away defence leaving space in front of goal for the home team to take the lead.

Oke regrouped and defended resolutely soaking up the Uni pressure. Unfortunately the visitors conceded a penalty corner which the home team hammered into the back of the Oke net.

Oke began to fight back with their player of the match Nicky Strawbridge surging forward from midfield supported by Ellie Shayler on the right.

Sandy Houston was unlucky not to score for Oke being denied when her powerful shot was saved by excellent kicking from the Uni keeper. It was Oke’s Sarah Bazeley who finally found a gap to pop the ball through and put Oke on the score sheet.

In the second half Oke valiantly tried to attack at every opportunity but they began to tire as the young, fit Uni team moved the ball swiftly around the pitch. Anna Luxton at left back made several crucial tackles to prevent shots on goal and with support from left half Zoe Curtis; they managed to attack down the left wing but were unable to convert this possession into goals.

The last quarter of the game belonged to the home team as they attacked in waves. Oke’s keeper Daisy Morgan dominated her circle quickly coming off her line to win several one on one encounters.

The University ladies increased their lead through a penalty corner giving a 3-1 victory.