Match Report from Amy Stevens.

It was a defensive start for our side, but against the run of play Ella broke away brilliantly to open the scoring within the first five minutes. That early goal sparked some confidence and we began to find our rhythm. Ruby then made it 2–1 with a stunning reverse shot from the edge of the D — a real highlight, earning her Star Player for this week.

Crowborough, however, caught us on the turn and equalised, leaving the score level at 2–2 at half time.

We started the second half strongly, with Ruby adding her second goal of the game to put us back in front. We held firm for a while, but Crowborough eventually broke through again to make it 3–3.

A period of sustained pressure earned us a short corner, which led to a very contentious disallowed goal. Rather than letting frustration take over, the team turned it into determination. Some brilliant interlinking play followed, ending with Abi slotting home to give us a 4–3 lead with not long left on the clock.

Unfortunately, an unlucky deflection resulted in an own goal to level things once more at 4–4. In the dying moments, Crowborough’s youthful energy showed, and they managed a last-second overhead strike that looped over Sarah’s head and into the net. The match ended 5–4 — an unlucky finish to what was a fantastic, hard-fought game.

Despite having no substitutes, every player dug deep and the team’s spirit truly shone through. It was an excellent display of teamwork, determination, and quality hockey — we can be proud of every minute of that performance.