Ashford (Middlesex) Hockey Club

Ladies League Hockey 6/3/10
Middlesex Premier
ASHFORD 1st XI 2 v HENDON 1st XI 0
Ashford Ladies 1st XI were at home to Hendon Ladies 1st XI on Saturday and had a squad of twelve players to select from. Regulars SAM GRANT, ANNA PROTHEROE and JACQUI BASHFORD were missing, so coach MANDY WAIN called up second team goalkeeper LIV WASHER for a rare first team game, along with second team veteran striker GILLIAN CLEGG for her first team debut. However, the Red & Blacks were still without injured skipper PHIL WORSFOLD, so coach MANDY persuaded former regular player SARAH SYMES to turn out again and play at the back. The rearrangement of the defence did not seem to affect the Ashford squad as they were firing on all cylinders from the first minute of the game. In fact, by the second minute of the game they were one nil up via another opportunist goal from on form striker MARIA CAVILLA. The goal gave the Red & Blacks all the confidence they needed to take the game to the higher placed visitors as Ashford moved smoothly into top gear. Hendon got stuck in though and did well to keep the score down to one nil only until the interval.
After the turn round, the Red & Blacks repeated their performance at the start of the game, by scoring a goal within two minutes of the whistle. This time it was the ever improving youngster LUCY UTTLEY who netted from a short corner. In fact coach MANDY WAIN had indicated that she wanted the corner to be slipped in a certain direction, but the receiver slipped it the other way other for some reason, and LUCY took her opportunity well to put Ashford two goals up. The Red & Blacks then piled on the pressure and were camped in the visitors half for nearly all the second half! This meant that LIV WASHER in the Ashford goal had little to do all game, whilst debutant GILLIAN CLEGG was enjoying her sessions on the pitch up front where she performed well. Also enjoying herself was acting skipper EMMA HYNES, who was playing in a new role at the bottom of the diamond, where she shone so much that she was voted player of the match! Quiet midfielder BYRONY SMITH, along with the ever improving SARAH APPLETON were also having good games. The constant Ashford efforts were somewhat thwarted though by the actions of the visiting official who left the Red & Black players, substitute and coach perplexed and frustrated on several occasions. Eventually the home team pressure resulted in the Red & Blacks securing a penalty stroke, and with regular taker PHIL WORSFOLD watching from the side lines, sweeper SARAH SYMES bravely strode up to take the flick. SARAH flicked the ball well and was unfortunate to see it hit the post and go wide. Further pressure didn’t convert any more chances for the Red & Blacks, and they ran out deserved winners to secure their second victory of 2010. The three winning points have moved Ashford well clear of the two teams below them in the relegation spots. With two games left, now Ashford have a chance to finish as high as sixth in the League, which in a season where injuries have struck nearly all the squad at one time or another, would be a very creditable performance.
Next week Ashford have a tough early morning game away at Paddington Recreation Ground against third placed Hampstead & Westminster 3rd XI. The Red & Blacks are looking forward to the game though and coach MANDY WAIN is optimistic that another good performance is on the cards.
Team: L. Washer (GK), E. Hynes (Skipper), S. Smart, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, S. Symes, B. Smith, L.Uttley, E. Sibia, S McGlinley. K. Taylor, G Clegg

Ladies League Hockey 27/2/10

Middlesex Premier

WINCHMORE HILL & ENFIELD 1st XI 4 v ASHFORD 1st XI 3

Although Ashford Ladies 1st XI were still without Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD , they did at least have a squad of twelve players for their tough midday way game at Enfield on Saturday. The long, traffic ridden journey did not seem to affect the squad as they soon got into their stride from the push back and took the game to the opposition. Encouraged by their good start, the Red & Blacks opened the scoring within the first five minutes, when the speedy LUCY UTTLEY picked up a neat pass from MARIA CAVILLA on the half way line. LUCY sped past the two Winchmore Hill & Enfield defenders in her way and calmly, and yet skillfully and quickly, rounded the home team goalkeeper to slot the ball home and put Ashford one up. It was a gem of a goal and worth the journey alone. Not surprisingly the home team tried to swiftly hit back and the Red & Blacks defence got caught rather flat footed when a strike from the right was slotted in by an unmarked player by the left post, to make the scores even at 1-1 with less than ten minutes of the game played. Ashford were then put under more pressure by the home team, but the Red & Blacks continued to play for each other with acting skipper EMMA HYNES and youngster ELINE SIBIA standing tall, as they contained the opposition well. However, Winchmore then managed to get a second goal which was almost a carbon copy of the first and left questions being asked of the Red & Blacks defence. Further pressure saw some good saves by the Ashford keeper SAM GRANT, and again some nice team work by the Red & Blacks to keep the score at 2-1 until the half time break.

Unfortunately as soon as played resumed for the second half Winchmore got a third goal with another good cross from the wing being slotted home by a free forward. The Red & Blacks rallied though and good work by KELLY TAYLOR down the right saw JACQUI BASHFORD swiftly push the ball to LUCY UTTLEY whose shot went very close to scoring. Likewise another good run by KELLY saw SHARON McGLINLEY going close, only for LUCY UTTLEY to skim the post with another solo effort. Ashford also had several short corners but weren’t able to find the final touch needed, and much against the run of play Winchmore broke away and got a fourth goal to be 4-1 up. The Red & Blacks rallied yet again and got their second goal of the game when SHARON McGLINLEY prodded the ball in at the far post. Ashford then got a third when one of their short corner routines worked and ANNA PROTHEROE jabbed the ball in after interjecting the corner on the left to make the score 4-3 to the home team. Continued pressure by Ashford in the dying minutes of the game failed to see them get their much wanted and deserved equaliser and made the final score in a fast and furious game 4-3 to Winchmore Hill & Enfield. Thus the Red & Blacks failed to get any league points to help with their fight against relegation, but they did play some great hockey.

Next week Ashford have another tough game at home at midday to Hendon 1st XI who are two places above them in the League. However, if the Red & Blacks can continue to play the hockey as they did on Saturday and keep scoring the goals, the results will surely come.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes (Skipper), S. Smart, A. Protheroe, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, J. Bashford, B. Smith, L.Uttley, E. Sibia, S McGlinley. K. Taylor

Ladies League Hockey 20/2/10
Middlesex Premier

EASTCOTE 2nd XI 6 v ASHFORD 1st XI 1

Ashford Ladies 1st XI had to travel to Brunel University to play League leaders and the team undefeated so far this season, Eastcote 2nd team on Saturday morning. The Red & Blacks were again short of several regular squad members, with Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD still injured and KELLY TAYLOR still away on holiday. However, the Red & Blacks were able to welcome back young striker LUCY UTTLEY. Unfortunately coach MANDY WAIN was unwell and not able to travel with the team for the game, the start of which was delayed for thirty minutes or so due to the pitch still being slightly frozen in places.

Despite the problems and delays, Ashford settled quickly into their stride and played some good hockey against a very competent Eastcote squad. As both sides pressed for the opening goal, it was the home team who scored first from a good, running strike. Ashford soon hit back though when the ever alert LUCY UTTLEY stole the ball off an Eastcote defender and slipped a pass to striker SHARON McGLINLEY. SHARON fired a fine shot goal wards and proficient goal getter MARIA CAVILLA forced the ball home from close in, to make the scores even at 1-1. The Red & Blacks still continued to play some of their best hockey of the season, but they were not getting ‘the rub of the green’ playing wise or with some of the umpiring decisions. Shortly before half time the home team once again took the lead with another good strike and went into the half time break 2-1 ahead.

The game initially followed a similar pattern in the second half, with the Red & Blacks doing quite well, but they soon tired. Having only eleven players, there were no substitutes available and thus no fresh legs could be brought on and heads went down somewhat. Eastcote meanwhile had a squad of fourteen players to utilise and they capitalised on it by pressurising the Ashford defence for rest of the second half. As Eastcote piled on the pressure, they secured short corner after short corner and Ashford wilted somewhat. Despite stout goalkeeping by SAM GRANT and fine play by defenders SOPHIE SMART and BRYONY SMITH, who shared the player of the match award, Eascote dominated proceedings. They deservedly soon went further ahead with several good strikes to notch another four goals and secure another win and three points and win by six goals to one. Ashford were obviously disappointed with the score line and their poor second half display, but they did themselves proud in the first half with some excellent hockey.

Next week Ashford have to travel to North London to face Winchmore Hill & Enfield first team, who are three places above them in the League. Coach Mandy Wain will be hoping that not only will she be able to return to active duty, but so will some of her injured squad. Ashford have only four games left to play now and need to secure a couple more league points to ensure Premier League safety.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes (Skipper), S. Smart, A. Protheroe, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, J. Bashford, B. Smith, L Uttley, E. Sibia, S McGlinley

Ladies League Hockey 13/2/10
Middlesex Premier
ASHFORD 1st XI 2 v MILL HILL 1st XI 2
Ashford Ladies 1st XI were again short of several regular squad members, with Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD still injured after last week’s win, and KELLY TAYLOR and LUCY UTTLEY both away on holiday for their home game at home to Mill Hill 1st XI on Saturday.. However, the Red & Blacks were able to welcome back strikers SHARON McGLINLEY, and LIV YOUNG, the latter making her first appearance of the season, but they once again only had a squad of eleven. Unfortunately due to a sudden family illness, Ashford midfielder JACQUI BASHFORD wasn’t able to make the start of the game, so the home team lined up with only ten players. Likewise, the visitors Mill Hill had a couple of late arrivals and when the game started they only had nine players. Despite their lack of numbers, it was the visitors who started the brighter of the two teams and opened the scoring early on. The Red & Blacks rallied though and after several scoring opportunities they scored, when the ever improving central defender SARAH APPLETON put a long ball through to striker MARIA CAVILLA who picked it up just over the half way line and charged up the pitch and beat the goalkeeper neatly to notch the equaliser for Ashford. By this stage of the game, both teams were up to a full complement and the addition of hard working midfielder JACQUI BASHFORD helped to keep Ashford well on top. However, the Red & Blacks were not making the best of their opportunities. A second goal did come their way though, when LIV YOUNG sped down the right and crossed the ball to SHARON McGLINLEY at the top of the circle who slipped the ball to MARIA CAVILLA, whose first shot was saved by the Mill hill keeper, but MARIA slotted the rebound home to put Ashford 2-1 up. Despite having many chances, neither side scored again in the first half.

The game followed a similar pattern in the second half, with the Red & Blacks on top but
they were again not converting their superiority into goals. SHARON McGLINLEY went close on several occasions, but the deputy Mill Hill goalkeeper stood firm as Ashford hit too many straight strikes straight at her. Any Mill Hill attacks were mainly well contained by the Ashford defence, and in particular by player of the match defender SOPHIE SMART. As the game drew to a close, with Ashford were still not really playing in top gear, but they were looking like gaining maximum points as they piled on the attacks. An innocent looking ball down the left side by Mill hill, saw Ashford with five players against two Mill Hill forwards, but the Mill Hill player drove speedily through to the top of the Ashford circle and put the ball to the right hand post, where her team mate was free and able to put the ball in the net to snatch an unexpected equaliser. With only a few minutes left Ashford piled forward and in the last minute of the game secured their first short corner of the game. Unfortunately they were not able to convert it and had to settle for a draw when a win had looked well within their grasp.

Thus the Red & Blacks only drew a game they should have won easily. Next week Ashford have a very tough morning game away to the undefeated and top of the table team Eastcote 2nd XI. The good news is that coach MANDY WAIN has at least thirteen players from her regular squad available which should boost the team’s confidence greatly.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes (Skipper), S. Smart, A. Protheroe, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, J. Bashford, B. Smith, L Young, E. Sibia, S McGlinley

Ladies League Hockey 6/2/10

Middlesex Premier

EASTCOTE 3rd XI 1 v ASHFORD 1st XI 2
Ashford travelled to Brunel University on Saturday to play Eastcote 3rd XI in a game the Red & Blacks had to win to ensure that they moved not only out of the relegation zone, but also to secure their first victory in three months. The home team were one place below Ashford in the League before the game, but without a win all season and no League points on the board, which also added spice to the game. Once again injuries and unavailability left coach MANDY WAIN with only eleven players, and short of regular striker SHARON McGLINLEY and speedy midfielder LUCY UTTLEY. However, on the plus side, right side midfielder BRYONY SMITH returned after a week away from action. The pre midday start and change to the black and red away strip seemed to suit Ashford, who after an initial blip when midfielder ANNA PROTHEROE received a green card for hitting the ball away at a free hit in the first two minutes of play, quickly hit top form. The whole team started brightly and took charge of the game with some fluid hockey, especially by youngster KELLY TAYLOR and the evergreen striker MARIA CAVILLA. It was therefore no surprise when the ever alert MARIA CAVILLA slotted the ball home to put Ashford deservedly one goal ahead midway through the first half. Any attacks Eastcote did have were well contained by the solid Ashford defence, in which once again SOPHIE SMART and EMMA HYNES starred. In the second part of the first half, Ashford Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD started to suffer with a back injury, but bravely played on in her normal central defender role. Shortly before the break Ashford went further ahead, when on song striker MARIA CAVILLA got a stunning second goal with a sparkling individual goal, to see Ashford go into the half time interval with a two goals to nil lead.

The second half saw Ashford reduced to only ten fit players as PHIL WORSFOLD’S injury worsened and she was unable to play at her usual high standard. This gave Eastcote heart and they mounted numerous attacks and secured a multitude of short corners. Ashford coped well with them though with the ever improving centre back SARAH APPLETON again working tirelessly and effectively in her number one runner role at defending short corners. Goalkeeper SAM GRANT also performed competently, even when a penalty flick was initially given against her, which was subsequently reversed. As the half wore on so the sparkling play of Ashford diminished and shortly before the end, an almost ‘own goal’ by unlucky defender ELINE SIBIA opened the scoring for Eastcote. Ashford remained strong though, ably led by their ‘player of the match’ EMMA HYNES, to secure the much needed three points and their first victory in 2010. The win sees Ashford move up a place to seventh in the league, nine points ahead of the bottom two teams.

Next week is another crucial one for the Red & Blacks as they are at home at 12 noon to Mill Hill 1st XI, who are currently bottom of the League and also without any wins and League points. Coach MANDY WAIN will be hoping that the injury list isn’t too heavy and that the team can once again play as well as they did in the first half of this game.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, J. Bashford, B. Smith, K. Taylor, E. Sibia

Ladies League Hockey 30/1/10

Middlesex Premier

ASHFORD 1st XI 1 v PHC CHISWICK 1st XI 5

In their first home League game of 2010, Ashford ladies faced stiff opposition in the form of second in the table side, PHC Chiswick 1st XI. Once again poor availability throughout the Club and a growing injury list meant that the Red & Blacks were reduced to a squad of eleven players only. However, this did not seem to dent the teams and coach MANDY WAIN’S confidence at all as they started the game with great vim and vigour and dominated play in the first quarter. Youngsters LUCY UTTLEY and KELLY TAYLOR were both particularly impressive, with KELLY setting up things down the right flank and the evergreen goal striker MARIA CAVILLA also playing well and picking up the crosses and through balls well and threatening the visitors goal on numerous occasions. Likewise at the back, youngster ELINE SIBIA was playing well and helping to pressurise the PHC Chiswick defence whilst also dealing skill fully with any of the rare Chiswick attacks. Despite their dominance though, Ashford got caught by a Chiswick breakaway, which resulted in a short corner being awarded, from which they opened the scoring. The Red & Blacks soon bounced back, when a sizzling run by LUCY UTTLEY saw her skin a couple of Chiswick defenders before striking for goal and seeing an alert MARIA CAVILLA poach the shot home to notch the Ashford equaliser at 1-1. A high standard of hockey, and umpiring, saw some good hockey being played by both sides for the rest of the first half and Ashford continuing to be in charge of game, even though the score remained at 1-1 until half time.

The second half saw the visitors getting more into their stride and gaining confidence in front of goal. The Red & Blacks remained resolute though, with youngster SARAH APPLETON again playing extremely well and bravely, especially during the onslaught from Chiswick short corners. Likewise the ever reliable Ashford defenders SOPHIE SMART and EMMA HYNES were playing in their usual polished and highly accomplished manner at the back to contain the mounting Chiswick threats, which eventually saw them taking the lead when they scored a second goal to lead 2-1. After fifteen minutes or so of play in second half, Ashford defender ELINE SIBIA suffered an injury and left the field, and with no substitutes available the Red & Blacks were reduced to ten players only. Ashford battled on bravely, but as players tired, the visitors took their chances and scored another three goals to give them what even they said was a rather flattering 5-1 victory. SOPHIE SMART was the Ashford player of the match, but the team as a whole played well and they were unfortunate to lose by such a margin

Next week Ashford travel to Easctcote to face Eastcote 3rd XI, who are yet to gain any league points. If the Red & Blacks play as well as they did in this game, then a victory and three important league points should be well within in their grasp.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, J. Bashford, L. Uttley, K. Taylor, E. Sibia

Ladies League Hockey 23/1/10
Middlesex Premier
WEST HAMPSTEAD 2nd XI 3 v ASHFORD 1st XI 2

After seven weeks away from hockey due to the Christmas/New Year break and the subsequent bad weather, Ashford Ladies 1st XI returned to action on Saturday. They had to travel to Brent Cross to play their first game of 2010, and they faced the team directly below them in the League, West Hampstead 2nd XI. Once again the first team squad were without the experienced midfielders NICKY BENEDICT, who is now on maternity leave, and the injured ANNIE NEYTON. In addition, young defender ELINE SIBIA was unavailable, but otherwise the rest of the regular squad was on duty. Coach MANDY WAIN decided to retain teenage, versatile defender BRYONY SMITH for her third 1st XI game on the right of midfield, and also gave a 1st XI debut to another promising teenager, central defender SARAH APPLETON. The absence of games didn’t show initially, as the Red & Blacks started in sprightly fashion and controlled the first twenty minutes of play. Youngsters LUCY UTTLEY and KELLY TAYLOR were both prominent and they made some speedy, forceful runs up field, whilst veteran striker MARIA CAVILLA was unlucky not to find the back of the net on several occasions. However, it was the home team who opened the scoring, despite the Red & Blacks early superiority with a speedy strike. Ashford hit back though, when Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD stepped up to convert her second penalty flick of the season to level the scores at 1-1, following a foul in the home sides circle. West Hampstead then came into their own and debutant SARAH APPLETON coped very well under pressure, with the able support of experienced defenders SOPHIE SMART and EMMA HYNES. Once again the Red & Blacks pushed forward and secured several short corners, but things just weren’t clicking with their final strike on goal. Unfortunately, West Hampstead found their Midas touch in the second part of the first half, scoring two, swift good, breakaway goals to go into half time with a 3-1 lead.

The second half started in a similar fashion to the first, with Ashford playing well, with midfielder (and player of the match) JACQUI BASHFORD in particular doing a lot of good work, and covering a lot of ground in midfield. The commendable team effort then resulted in the Red & Blacks pulling a goal back following a short corner, in which about six Ashford players were involved. Injector ANNA PROTHEROE managed to hit the post with her follow up shot and the ever vigilant striker SHARON Mc GINLEY eventually pounced, to put the ball home from very, very close in. Despite being back in the game, the Red & Blacks lack of matches began to tell, and they tired as they strived for an equaliser. West Hampstead meanwhile went from strength to strength and it took the ever reliable Red & Blacks keeper SAM GRANT performing extremely well in goal to stop them. Not only was SAM doing some excellent saves, but also some vital goal mouth clearances, and she was helped by some decisive defending from SARAH APPLETON, who was playing with growing confidence in her first game. Ashford held out to the end of play, to keep the final score at 2-3, but rued some of the missed chances they had had in front of goal.

Ashford are at home at noon next week against second in the League team, PHC Chiswick 1st XI. Coach MANDY WAIN will be hoping to have more or less a full squad to pick from and will be looking for the Red & Blacks to convert their promising parts of their form in their first game of 2010, into League points.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, B. Smith, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, S. Appleton, M. Cavilla, J. Bashford, S. McGinley, L. Uttley, K. Taylor

Ladies League Hockey 5/12/09

Middlesex Premier

TEDDINGTON 3rd XI 3 v ASHFORD 1st XI 1

Ashford travelled to Teddington on Saturday to face the team two places above them in the League, Teddington 3rd XI. Once again the first team squad were without the long term injured pair of NICKY BENEDICT & ANNIE NEYTON, and although midfielder regular JACQUI BASHFORD was also unavailable, young starlets LUCY UTTLEY and KELLY TAYLOR returned to the team. As a couple of regular players were unavailable for the 2nd XI, coach MANDY WAIN decided to take only eleven players, retaining young, versatile defender BRYONY SMITH for her second 1st XI game and striker MARIA CAVILLA up front. Although the Ashford team structure of four across the midfield remained the same as normal, several players moved positions to cover for the missing regular midfielders, the main ones being ANNA PROTHEROE moving to right back, SHARON McGLINLEY to left midfield and KELLY TAYLOR to the top of the midfield diamond. The new set up worked well for Ashford who started the game strongly, matching Teddington in all departments. As the game flowed from one end to the other, it was the Red and Blacks who struck first. A lovely one two sequence of moves involving the Ashford strikers MARIA CAVILLA and LUCY UTTLEY, saw the ball exchanged between the two of them from the half way line into the opponents goalmouth were LUCY UTTLEY hit it into the net to put Ashford 1-0 ahead. Despite Ashford’s continued good play, Teddington managed to notch an equaliser with a well taken strike from a short corner to make the score 1-1 at which it remained until half time.

After the interval the young Teddington squad turned on the pressure and created numerous chances. Ashford remained resolute though, with EMMA HYNES in particular playing well, although the whole team were continuing to move the ball around well and display some good, solid hockey. In addition, young defender ELINE SIBIA cleared the ball off the line in one instance to save a certain goal. The continual attacks of the home team and lack of substitutes for the Ashford squad saw them not unexpectedly tire a little as the second half wore on. However, it took two excellent strikes from short corners for Teddington to take the lead 2-1, and then secure the win with a third goal from another cracking short corner shot. After the game, coach MANDY WAIN and the Ashford team were not downhearted by their defeat though as they had given their all in what was a very good and enjoyable game. Youngster KELLY TAYLOR and stalwart sweeper EMMA HYNES were voted joint players of the match for the Red & Blacks.

The Ladies first team has now finished their matches for 2009 and although their Middlesex League games don’t recommence until mid January, they are hoping to play a friendly game against Woking 1A’s team in early January. On current form they will be hoping to gain some more League points early in 2010 to help move them up to a middle of the table position by early February.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, B. Smith, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, M. Cavilla, S. McGinley, L. Uttley, K. Taylor

Ladies League Hockey 28/11/09

Middlesex Premier

ASHFORD 1st XI 0 v HAMPSTEAD & WESTMINSTER 3rd XI 0

Once again the Ladies first team squad were depleted due to continuing injuries (NICKY BENEDICT & ANNIE NEYTON), three regulars being unavailable (LUCY UTTLEY, KELLY TAYLOR and LOU DOUGLAS), and poor availability throughout the other Ladies sides. This left coach MANDY WAIN with only eleven players to face Hampstead & Westminster third team, at Short Lane on Saturday. Included in the squad for her Premier League full debut was young, versatile defender BRYONY SMITH and making a farewell cameo performance, was former skipper STACEY KENWARD. Second team striker MARIA CAVILLA was also given another run out up front. Despite, the lack of numbers and experience in the squad, the eleven Ashford players grafted well from the start and although a few players were in different positions to normal, some fast, flowing hockey was played. The visitors also played some fluent hockey and both sides were striving hard to find the opening goal as the exciting first half progressed. The deadlock could not be broken by either side though and the score line remained at 0-0 until half time.

After the interval the pattern of play remained the same, with both teams playing some fine, flowing hockey. Youngster BRYONY SMITH was playing extremely well on her debut as were all the Red & Black players, especially STACEY KENWARD who didn’t look ring rusty despite her lack of games this season. Prompted well by stalwart defenders SOPHIE SMART, EMMA HYNES and skipper PHIL WORSFOLD, Ashford did secure a short corner and made numerous forays on the Hampstead & Westminster goal in second half, but stalwart defending by the visitors kept the threatening Ashford forwards at bay and the score remained goal less until the end of the game. Hard working midfielder JACQUI BASHFORD was voted Ashford’s player of the match, in a game where coach MANDY WAIN was pleased by the effort shown by all eleven Red & Black players.

Next Saturday Ashford Ladies only have to make the short journey to Teddington to face Teddington Ladies 3rd XI. Hopefully the Red & Blacks will have more regular squad players available to play in what will be their last League game before the Christmas break, against the team currently three places above them in the League. It will be a tough game, but if the Red & Blacks can play with the same conviction and effort as they did in this match, then they should secure at least a League point and hopefully another win.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, B. Smith, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, M. Cavilla, S. McGinley, S. Kenward, J. Bashford

Ladies League Hockey 14/11/09

Middlesex Premier
ASHFORD 1st XI 2 v EASTCOTE 2nd XI 3
On a stormy day off the pitch, Ashford Ladies first team had a few storms on it to weather as well in their home game on Saturday, against second in the League side Eastcote Ladies 2nd XI. After their poor performance the week before everyone was hoping for better this week, and several enforced changes had to be made to the team due to the absence of regulars LOU DOUGLAS, JACQUI BASHFORD, ANNIE NEYTON and the still injured NICKY BENEDICT. In addition, due to poor availability of players throughout the Ladies sides, coach MANDY WAIN could only field a squad of eleven players. Experienced, long time second team striker MARIA CAVILLA was therefore called up for her second first team game of the season and semi-retired, skill full midfielder SARAH SYMES cajoled into playing another game.

Although the game started with the visitors putting on the pressure and showing why they are second in the League, the all round play and spirit of the Red & Blacks shone through and they matched their opponent’s level of endeavour. Ashford were combining well and working for each other once again and although Eastcote scored first, Ashford rallied with an equaliser midway through the first half from hot shot striker SHARON McGLINLEY. A good ball from PHIL WORSFOLD, followed by an ace through ball from SARAH SYMES on the left, was deflected in by the ever alert McGLINLEY. Further attempts on the Eastcote goal followed, with MARIA CAVILLA working particularly hard up front, supplemented well with speedy right flank play of the whippet like youngster KELLY TAYLOR. It wasn’t only the strikers that were performing at their best though as SARAH SYMES prompted things well from the midfield, whilst SOPHIE SMART, EMMA HYNES and Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD were as reliable as ever at the back. Their efforts ensured that the score remained at a very creditable 1-1 at half time.

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first and midway through it the Red & Blacks went ahead as youngster LUCY UTTLEY nudged the ball home from close in. SARAH SYMES was again involved and MARIA CAVILLA was also on hand to make sure the ball went over the goal line. A rather disputed equaliser was then scored by Eastcote, when several fouls on an Ashford player outside the D were allowed by the visiting umpire and Eastcote slotted the ball home from the attack to make the score 2-2. Worse was to follow as in literally the last minute of the game Eastcote got a winner from a breakaway. Ashford were all, not surprisingly, very despondent at the change of events, but they should also be very pleased with their much improved all round performance.

Next Saturday Ashford have another early morning game in North London, this time they have to travel to Hendon to play their 1st XI, who are two places below them in the League. It will be a tough game, but if the red & Blacks can play with the same conviction and finesse as they did in this match, then they should secure at least some more League points and hopefully another win.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, S. Symes, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, K.Taylor, M. Cavilla, S. McGlinley, L. Uttley

Ladies League Hockey 7/11/09

Middlesex Premier

MILL HILL 1st XI 2 v ASHFORD 1st XI 2

Ashford Ladies first team were still without stalwart midfielder NICKY BENEDICT due to injury for their trip to north London to play Mill Hill 1st XI on Saturday, but otherwise they had they their normal squad of twelve players. The one week break from hockey and the early morning 10.30 am start away from home did not seem to suit the Red & Blacks. They played sluggish hockey from the start, with the home team Mill Hill first team playing a lot better than their bottom of the League position suggested. Despite being under pressure and struggling to find their usual pace and team work, it was Ashford who opened the scoring, when the ever reliable midfielder ANNIE NEYTON put the ball home with a hard straight strike from a short corner injected by ANNA PROTHEROE. The home team continued to dominate the game though and equalised from a penalty flick shortly afterwards. Despite their lack of cohesion Ashford managed to take the lead again before half time via their own penalty flick. It was converted by Skipper PHIL WORSFOLD, who took the responsibility of taking it on her own shoulders, when no one else in the team stepped forward to take it. Although Skipper PHIL had to confirm the rules for taking a stroke with the umpires, she calmly stepped up and stroked the ball low and to right of the Mill Hill goalkeeper to score a rare goal for her and her first penalty flick for Ashford Ladies. Thus despite their continued poor play and the superior play of the home team, the Red & Blacks went into the half time interval 2-1 ahead.

The second half very much followed the pattern of the first as Ashford struggled to lose their lethargic mood, and Mill Hill played the better hockey. It was only the astute goalkeeping of the Ashford keeper SAM GRANT that kept the score line at 2-1 for the third quarter of the game. Mill Hill eventually got their just reward though by notching an equaliser despite SAM GRANT’S sterling efforts. It was a day to forget for Ashford, but at least they secured a point against a team which are obviously beginning to find some good form

Next Saturday the Ladies first team are at home to second in the League team Eastcote 2nd XI, at Short Lane at noon. It will be a tough game, but coach MANDY WAIN will be working hard with the squad in training this week and on Saturday prior to the game, to ensure they are fully prepared for their sixth League game of the season and that if possible the Red & Blacks get back to the something like the form and the performances and fluent team work they displayed in their first four games..

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, J. Bashford, P. Worsfold (Skipper), A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, K.Taylor, S. McGlinley, A. Neyton, L Uttley, L Douglas

Ladies League Hockey 24/10/09
Middlesex Premier
ASHFORD 1st XI 5 v EASTCOTE 3rd XI 1
The Ladies 1st XI were without three of their regular squad, LOU DOUGLAS, LUCY UTTLEY, SHARON McGLINLEY due to unavailability and also midfielder NICKY BENEDICT due to injury, for their fourth League game of the season at home to Eastcote 3rd XI on Saturday. Coach MANDY WAIN therefore called second team striker MARIA CAVILLA, along with veteran midfielder SARAH SYMES and Second Team Coach LAURA QUINN into action, all for their first Premier games of the season. The rearranged Ashford squad struggled at first to get into the game and Eastcote outpaced and out thought them in the opening exchanges of the game, belying their lowly League position. However, a lovely darting run from a very lively ANNIE NEYTON created the first opening for Ashford and brought out a good save from the Eastcote goalkeeper. At the other end of the pitch EMMA HYNES did well to recover when put under heavy pressure by the Eastcote forwards, to clear the ball up field. Shortly after Ashford opened the scoring when the ebullient ANNIE NEYTON drove into the opposition’s 25 and slipped the ball right to JACQUI BASHFORD who slipped the ball back and ANNIE nipped in front of the waiting LAURA QUINN to put the ball in the net and the Red & Blacks 1-0 up. Not unexpectedly the goal boosted Ashford’s confidence and they started to combine well and utilise the flanks well, especially down the right. A second goal for Ashford followed shortly after set up by youngster KELLY TAYLOR on the right, and once again ANNIE NEYTON nipped in to put the ball home ahead of the loitering LAURA QUINN. Despite being 2-0 up the Red & Blacks weren’t totally firing on all cylinders, and goalkeeper SAM GRANT made a good save when she was called into action. Another Ashford attack followed shortly after and a third goal looked a certainty as both MARIA CAVILLA and SARAH SYMES fired in shots and followed up on the rebounds, as the ball rattled back and for between them and the Eastcote keeper, but somehow the goalkeeper eventually got the ball clear to thwart the Red & Blacks. Five minutes before half time Ashford did get their a third goal though, when yet another good run by KELLY TAYLOR on the right set up JACQUI BASHFORD, who calmly placed the ball in the back of the net with a gentle shot to make the score 3-0 to Ashford.

Eastcote applied further pressure at the start of the second half, but goals from MARIA CAVILLA and SARAH SYMES helped to secure the victory for Ashford. MARIA’S goal was from open play, whilst SARAH’S was from a well worked short corner, which ANNA PROTHEROE injected, SARAH slipped right to KELLY TAYLOR who slipped it back to SARAH who hit it home from the penalty spot. In between the Red & Blacks had other chances and played well as a team, but failed to convert their moves into further goals. Eastcote notched their only goal of the game between the Ashford goals, following a mix up in the Ashford defence. There are no League fixtures for Ashford Ladies first; second and third teams next weekend due to the school holiday, but the fourth team has a rearranged League game away to PHC Chiswick 5th XI. The next 1st XI game is on 7/11/09 when they have to travel to Mill Hill to play their 1st XI, who have as yet, not won a League game.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, J. Bashford, P. Worsfold (Skipper), L.Quinn, A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, K.Taylor, S. Symes, M. Cavilla, A. Neyton

Middlesex Premier

PHC CHISWICK 1st XI 3 v ASHFORD 1st XI 1

Ashford travelled to Hammersmith on Saturday to take on the undefeated League leaders PHC Chiswick 1stXI. Experienced striker SHARON McGLINLEY returned to the squad, but evergreen midfielder/striker ANNIE NEYTON wasn’t available, which meant that the Red & Blacks only had a squad of twelve. The lack of numbers of numbers seemed to spur the Red & Blacks on though and despite it being an earlier than usual start (11am), they started better than PHC Chiswick and were on top in the opening quarter of the game. Once again it was the basic skills and good team work, that coach MANDY WAIN had been working on in training, which shone through and initially put the League leaders under pressure. Ashford unfortunately weren’t able to convert their early dominance and chances into goals in what was developing into a good game of high standard hockey. Gradually as the first half wore on, the home team got more into their stride and put the Ashford defence and especially goalkeeper SAM GRANT under a lot of pressure, but SAM responded well and kept them at bay for a long time. However, they eventually managed to beat her with a well taken goal to take a 1-0 lead into the half time break.

After the turn round PHC Chiswick increased the pressure by playing some more fast and skilful hockey and scored another good goal to go 2-0 ahead. Ashford responded well though and hit back via wide midfielder ANNA PROTHEROE, who slotted home from the left after injecting a good short corner ball to make the score 2-1. The game continued at a high pace with the home team showing why they are undefeated by playing some excellent hockey. Ashford held them well though, but after fifteen minutes of play, hard working Ashford midfielder NICKY BENEDICT sustained a calf injury and had to go off for the rest of the game. The Red & Blacks rearranged their midfield and continued to play and combine well, but were unable to grab an equaliser. Near the end of the game PHC Chiswick scored a third goal to make the final score a slightly flattering 3-1. Ashford coach MANDY WAIN and the squad weren’t disheartened by the defeat though as they had given their all in what was a good and fairly close game. Young defender ELINE SIBIA was voted player of the match, but once again the whole team deserved credit for another high standard performance.

Next week the Red & Blacks are at home at 12 noon to Premier League newcomers Eastcote 3rd XI, who have lost their first three games. Coach MANDY WAIN will however ensure that there won’t be any complacency from Ashford and they continue to work hard for each other and to display their much improved team work. Unfortunately though they will probably have to do it without the injured midfield dynamo NICKY BENEDICT.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E. Hynes, S. Smart, J. Bashford, P. Worsfold (Skipper), L. Douglas, A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, K.Taylor, N. Benedict, L. Uttley, S. McGlinley

ASHFORD 1st XI 2 v WEST HAMPSTEAD 2nd XI 0

11/10/09
West Hampstead 2nd XI provided the opposition for Ashford Ladies 1st XI at Short Lane on Saturday, when the Red & Blacks were playing their second league game of the new season.
Ashford welcomed back young defender ELINE SIBIA to the squad after illness and they were without experienced striker SHARON McGLINLEY, otherwise they were at full strength. Coach MANDY WAIN has been working hard with the squad in training on basic skills and good team work, and it showed as the whole team combined well and produced some exciting fluid hockey from the very start of the game. Each player seemed to have an extra yard of pace from last week’s game and they were all working hard for each other. NICKY BENEDICT in midfield was creating havoc for the visitors with her skilful probing runs, whilst defenders LOU DOUGLAS, EMMA HYNES, ELINE SIBIA, SOPHIE SMART, skipper PHIL WORSFOLD and goalkeeper SAM GRANT dealt easily with the few attacks the visitors tried to make. Young midfielders KELLY TAYLOR and ANNA PROTHEROE were also playing some very creative hockey down either flank, whilst ANNIE NEYTON was as speedy and as thrusting as ever. Up front squad newcomer LUCY UTTLEY was showing her lightening speed and skills, whilst JACQUI BASHFORD was perpetually probing and gathering as always. Not surprisingly, the Red & Blacks soon took the lead and it was defender LOU DOUGLAS who opened the scoring, when she slap hit the ball into the net to score her first ever goal for Ashford from a well worked short corner routine. Further good team work put Ashford clearly on top and another goal for the Red & Blacks followed shortly before half time and it was a brilliant one. Defender EMMA HYNES picked up the ball wide on the Ashford 25 yard line and delivered an excellent sweeping through ball to LUCY UTTLEY near the half way line. In one swift movement, LUCY controlled the ball and sped past the oncoming defender and accelerated goal wards, neatly by passing another defender and around the advancing West Hampstead goalkeeper to calmly slot the ball home and put Ashford deservedly 2-0 up.

The second half saw Ashford continuing to control the play, with all the team still combining well, playing some simple, but very effective hockey, and creating numerous chances. However, try as they might, despite gaining many short corners, the Red & Blacks were unable to add to their goal tally. The visitors then belatedly created a few chances of their own, but Ashford keeper SAM GRANT sprang into action to cope with them easily. In the final quarter of the game, the Red & Blacks again turned on the style and finished on a high note by again dominating play. The Red & Blacks nearly got a third shortly before the final whistle, and LOU DOUGLAS her second goal, when she cracked a screamer of a shot from a short corner, but was blown up for dangerous play. KELLY TAYLOR was voted Player of the Match, with several players getting votes as the whole team had performed very, very well and coach MANDY WAIN was extremely pleased with their display. Next week the Red & Blacks travel to Hammersmith to face early League leaders PHC Chiswick 1st XI at the West London Stadium and they will be hoping to continue to play with the flair, skill and confidence displayed on Saturday.

Team: S. Grant (GK), E Hynes, S.Smart, J.Bashford, P.Worsfold (Skipper), L. Douglas, A. Protheroe, E. Sibia, K.Taylor, N. Benedict, L.Uttley, A.Neyton