Newmarket ladies were feeling the
tension as they faced a fast and fit Cambridge University side.
Town started the game tentatively and
found themselves unfamiliarly on the back foot whilst Cambridge used
their speed advantage. Possession slowly swung Newmarket’s way
giving the defence which included Hazel Sadler, Louise Downs and
Gail McDonnell a break to compose themselves.
Town who were playing very centrally,
managed to string some quick passing together and got shots on
target. Cambridge University also tested Sue Edwards in goal on a
couple of occasions. Never the less, the first half remained
goalless and starting the second Newmarket began to relax a little
more. With this Town stepped up a gear and displayed confident
attacking play.
Sam Smith played an intelligent ball
on a long corner to Lydia Fison. Fison passed to Louise downs who
struck at goal and Di Thomas was on hand to sweep the ball home and
give Town the lead.
Beth Wombwell continued her great
running on and off the ball and connected well with her fellow
forwards. Hayley Stoneman came on the pitch and immediately made her
presence felt. She hit the target following a driving run from Gail
McDonnell right from the half way line and down the right wing into
the D, drawing the defence wide.
Newmarket finished the game
confidently despite the University side continually applying
pressure and although there were short corners for Cambridge; they
were unable to break the solid Town defence.
