8/1/2022 Ashford Ladies 1’s 4 v Yateley Ladies 1’s 1

Ashford ladies 1’s returned to match action after the Christmas break today when they entertained South Central, north division 2 team and old rivals, Yateley 1’s in a friendly game. Ashford were minus a few regular squad members, so coach Jackie Parsons took the opportunity to give 2’s players Tina Charles and Hannah Merchant a run out and youngsters Kitty Langdon and Ella Hare, their debuts. Whilst the Red and Blacks are unbeaten in their eleven league matches to date, the visitors have been having a torrid time with only one win and nine goals scored. In very wet conditions, the teams exchanged possession in the opening stages of the game, both playing some good, exciting hockey. Although Yateley created a few chances, Ashford took the lead when forward Lucy Scott pounced to make it 1-0 to the Red and Blacks after 15 minutes of play. Shortly after Lucy nearly got a second when she broke away and left the last Yateley defender for dead, rounded their keeper, but shot narrowly wide from an acute angle. The visitors were marshalled well as always, by Captain and very talented player, Jenny Cornelius, but despite their efforts and several short corners, they were unable to penetrate the home team’s defence. Eventually, a sweeping home team move saw prolific goal scorer Lucy Downs putting the Red and Blacks 2-0 up after 22 minutes of play. No further goals were secured by either side before the break.
As the rain continued, both sides continued to give their best and play the game in a good spirit and controlled hockey. After 7 minutes of play, Ashford combined well down the right, and young debutant Kitty Langdon showed amazing speed off the mark and skill to score her first ladies 1’s goal to put the home team 3-0 up. The visitors battled on, but the stalwart Ashford defence and keeper Jo Lawton kept them at bay. Lucy Downs then grabbed her second goal of the game to put the Red and Blacks 4-0 to put the game out of reach. However, the hard working visitors got a good, late consolation goal to make the final score 4-1 to the home side. All players and spectators then headed off after an enjoyable game to the warmth of a dry Clubhouse. Kitty Langdon was deservedly voted the Red and Blacks player of the match.

LM 8.1.2022