Newmarket Ladies Captained by Sam
Smith, faced Market Deeping for the first time in a few seasons due
to League changes and match cancellations.
Newmarket continued playing in their
confident style and took control forcing the play in Market
Deeping's defending half. Great link up play between Rachel Allen
and Claire McDonnell left Tracy Cockerill who was perfectly placed
to deflect the ball into the back of the goal.
Soon after Louise Downs, who was
named player of the match, managed to make a quick breakaway
from the half way line which created space for McDonnell to execute
a pinpoint pass to Di Thomas who nutmegged the keeper and scored.
After half time Newmarket were
perhaps slightly complacent and lack of fitness was beginning to
show in the form of rushed, panicked passing. Market Deeping took
full advantage of this and scored a goal from a short corner. Jane
Chapman made some confident progression up front but Newmarket's
nerves got the better of them. The play remained the same throughout
the second half. Newmarket looked tired and left a big gap in
midfield for their opponents to run free with the ball. Despite the
reversal of possession, Isabel Hooley must be mentioned for her work
rate and for winning many a ball to create chances.
Another short corner was awarded to
Market Deeping which they swiftly converted. The pressure remained
on Newmarket but there was strong clearances from Mel Cummins who
made her season's debut and Sue Bullimore made some good judgements
in goal. Also to note that many fine tackles came from Hazel Sadler
and Bev and Clodie Rolph in defence which helped Newmarket to hang
on for a 2-2 draw.
The Ladies play at the Newmarket
Leisure Centre against St Ives Ladies 3rd team at 1:00pm next
Saturday. Supporters are very much welcome.