1st team

Match Reports

Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Penarth 1's - Friday 12th March

Player of the match: Everyone!

With the season closing in, Saints were keen to return to winning ways and, following a spirited second half performance the previous Saturday, the scene was set to entertain all who had turned out for Friday night hockey.

As expected Penarth started well with decisive passing and some speedy attacks down the wings. The Saints defence held strong but a determined Penarth soon showed why they are 2nd in the League with the 1st of their goals coming midway in the first half. A second was to follow in spite of some great saves by Erin in goal.

Saints had to dig deep to counter Penarth’s strong start and slowly began to exert pressure and gain ground. This was to yield results with mistakes in the Penarth defence allowing Saints into the D to win a short corner. An inevitable flick following a foot on the line gave Jo Westwood the chance to draw level which she took with great composure and style. The score at the break: 2-1 to Penarth.

With renewed belief Saints started the second half resolute, forcing Penarth to play deep in their own half. Opportunities were plentiful with some long balls from Emma Gowman just failing to get a touch from the attack in the D. Penarth incurred a green card following some dangerous tackling on the left and some further ill discipline lead to the first yellow card of the game. With Penarth reduced to 10 a second goal was there for the taking. Phoebe was on hand to provide some magic chasing down a ball in defence and quickly striking the ball into the top left corner to level the game.

After an hour of great running and support play Saints were beginning to tire and also incurred a yellow card (for one illegal tackle too many!) with Phoebe leaving the field. Penarth were lucky to find one more goal with 2 minutes to go claiming victory but left the field knowing that Saints are the team to watch next season!

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v UWIC 1's - Saturday 6th March

Player of the Match Alys Price

Back to full strength in defence with recent injuries resolved the 1s were keen to overcome recent league defeats, but with UWIC having already proven themselves the superior team in the 1st half of the season it was not going to be an easy task.
The opening five minutes allowed UWIC to settle early winning a short corner which was converted easily off a straight strike from top D.  A second goal followed in quick succession before Saints tightened the gaps at the back and began exerting their own pressure on the UWIC defence.

Chances up front were not plentiful in the 1st half but UWIC were beginning to struggle in working the ball out of their defence.  This said a third goal came on a break from the left leaving the students confident at the break.
With little to lose and a point to prove Saints went out a defiant team in the second half with numerous changes in positions proving successful in troubling the UWIC stronghold.

Saints worked very hard with Phoebe having some great runs upfront and linking well with Jo Westwood.  The defence looked solid providing a good base to switch play quickly while Alys in the centre provided excellent support  play both in attack and defence. The UWIC keeper was forced to make some good saves and was lucky in the end to deny Saints a goal.

A 4th late goal for UWIC against the run of play and with the aid of a lucky bounce was to leave the score 4-0 in the end. With lessons learned and a positive performance in the 2nd half saints will have confidence facing Penarth 1s next Friday.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Bridgend - Saturday 20th February

The uncertainty about pitch conditions and general lethargy throughout the team did not bode well for the Saints. As the game started, Saints seemed to be on the back foot immediately. Within the first 5 minutes Saints were 1-0 down; allowing Bridgend to dominate. Unfortunately this did not set alarm bells ringing, with the absence of captain and centre back Jenny Bayliss there was a lack of communication within the defence leading to a second Bridgend goal; added with quick succession. Another Bridgend attack resulted in defender Liz Wakeling receiving a ball deflection to the eye; she made a swift exit to receive medical attention.

Finally the Saints settled down, managing to link together some fluid movement, opening up gaps in the Bridgend defence. The keeper, however, was able to dismiss any shots on target. Frustration was apparent in the Saints camp, resulting in a green and yellow card given to the players in white. True to form Jo Westwood came to the rescue, continually making lead runs the midfield, Saints were able to pick her out to put the opposition defence under pressure. A ball from Emily Williams found Westwood on top D and the ball was powered past the keeper onto the back board. Half time came with no further success for the Saints.

The second half started with more determination than the first, Saints' fitness showed through as they were able to continue their pressure as Bridgend tired. Again the keeper kept the Saints from levelling the score-line, saving one-on-one shots from various attackers. As the opposition grew more tired the Saints were awarded several short corners, but they proved fruitless, despite trying different routines. The highlight of the second half was Noelle Heffron, who got a taste for scoring in last week's game, finding herself in the attacking D. Her shot was heading to the top corner but somehow the keeper found her way across to it, denying the reward.

The game finished 2-1 to Bridgend, the Saints unable to recover from a careless start. A huge disappointment for Saints, but it gives us a lot to work on and a wake up call for next week's double header.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Dowlais - Saturday 13th February

Man of the Match: Pheobe Richards

The Saints took a while to settle this week; unable to make the most of the possession. Dowlais crowded their D, making the route to the goal challenging, despite the Saints confidently occupying Dowlais territory. Becky Woods opened the scoring for the Saints, slotting the ball in at the far post; a calm conversion concluding a period of scrappy play in the D. Multiple short corners and a penalty stroke later, the score remained the same at the half-time break.

Following an encouraging team talk from coach Vicki Sutton and captain Jenny Bayliss, the Saints started the second half with a fresh determination. Making more use of the space and transferring the ball with intent, Saints awaited opportunities to increase the lead. Nat Capel and Alys Gwyneth reliably holding the pivotal position in centre midfield.

After some confusion at the top of the D, Fi Tibbitt finally put her name on the score-sheet as she dragged the ball into the back of the goal. Emily Williams passed a few defenders and the diving Dowlais keeper, maintaining her composure and slotting the Saints third goal away-an impressive individual effort. Pheobe Richards was rewarded for her perseverance throughout the match as she took on defenders at pace and finished to give the Saints a comfortable 4-0 lead.

Communication and movement improved in the Saints camp, allowing left back, Noelle Heffron, to advance up the pitch. She entered the D and took a shot, which took a deflection and ended up in the goal, much to the delight of Noelle and surprise of Julie Baxter! Emily gained her second goal of the day when Fi took a shot from a narrow angle, the Dowlais keeper failed to clear and Emily was on hand to tuck the ball into the back of the goal.

A pleasing result for the Saints, Erin Gough in goal unchallenged throughout. Let’s start next week’s match with a bit more oomph!!

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Howardian 1's - Saturday 6th February

Player of the Match: Erin Gough

The Saints anticipated a tough return to the League after the Christmas break, the first game against last year’s League winners. A spirited start for the Saints proved important in setting the course of the game. A goal within the first 2 minutes encouraged the Saints; Julie Baxter intercepted the ball in the midfield, passing it to Fi Tibbitt who took on a player to cross the ball into the D to Jo Westwood poised near the penalty spot to convert.

The play continued end to end; the Saints communicating well to maintain marking of the speedy Howardian forwards. Howards brought the score level from a short corner, placed into the bottom right of the goal. Undeterred the Saints continued to battle. Erin Gough, in goal, dominating her area in the presence of Howards attackers, moving from her line with pace to ensure no further score for the opposition.

Towards the end of the first half, the drama did not relent. Emma Gowman, at right back, delivered a pass down the line to Becky Woods, who skilfully advanced into the Howards D for a reverse stick shot at goal. The shot came to Westwood, who slipped it to Emma Clayton to push it into the goal. The conversion made doubly sure by a touch by Jo Safe as it crossed the line.  A Howards midfielder was yellow carded just before the break for deliberate use of her reverse stick, leaving Howards with 10 players going into the second half.

The second half saw no further goals, but both sides had multiple attempts; Alys Gwyneth missing the far post by a whisker, and Jo Westwood diving full stretch again only to miss by centimetres. Erin Gough held her composure when faced with a one-on–one with a Howards forward. Howards pressurised the Saints for a period, but the defence of Liz Wakeling, Noelle Heffron, Jenny Bayliss and Emma Gowman held fast. Howards’ best opportunity was denied by the foot of Pheobe Richards on the line; Erin superbly saving the ensuing stroke. Julie Baxter slotted back into right defence when Gowman was injured; contributing to the Saints efforts to maintain the 1 goal lead.

An excellent win for the Saints!!!!

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Whitchurch Ladies - Sunday 7th February - Shield

Player of the Match: Alys Gwyneth

A confident start to the match by the Saints was fruitless, despite keeping possession, we were unable to score. Dominating the territory and putting the Whitchurch Ladies under pressure failed to yield a reward. Saints demonstrated authority with some flowing passages of play linking defence, midfield and forwards; all players working hard to try and open up the opposition.

A penalty stroke was awarded to the Saints after the ball was trapped between the Whitchurch goalkeeper and defender. Unfortunately the keeper made up for her error denying Fi Tibbitt with another good save! Noelle Heffron showed promise up front, carrying the ball into the D and creating chances for the Saints, but yet no score.

Central defender Jenny Bayliss found herself advancing into the attacking 25 and D, assisting in further periods of attacking play. Alys Gwyneth, as always, confidently coordinated play from the centre midfield. Whitchurch Ladies were reduced to 10 players when the umpire raised her yellow card for repeated poor tackling. The Whitchurch keeper paramount in ensuring the scoreline remained level at the half-way mark.

The deadlock was finally broken about 10 minutes from the end; a cracking cross from Julie Baxter pinpointing Jane Rowley, who duly slotted the ball into the back of the goal. The Saints second was a carbon copy of the first, however this time Westwood obliged with the tap in.

A pleasing result that pays credit to the Saints patience and composure. Thanks to Gemma Ible on the sideline.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Cardiff Athletic - Saturday 23rd January

Player of the match: Jo Westwood

A 10-a-side post-Christmas friendly allowed the Saints to blow off the cob-webs and run off a few mince pies! The Saints started slowly, and allowed Cardiff Athletic to dominate the middle of the pitch. Sloppy marking and positioning created open channels for Cardiff Athletic to threaten the Saints’ goal.  Cardiff Ath took the lead from open play, taking advantage of the distracted Saints’ defence, after Cath Hodge took a deflected hockey ball onto her arm. This was the wake-up call the Saints needed, and multiple periods of attacking play ensued. Alys Gwyneth, who played for South Wales Select vs English National League side Clifton Ladies last night, coordinated the attacking play from midfield, unleashing runs from Phoebe Richards and Julie Baxter.

The Saints equalised from a short corner routine, struck from top D by Fi Tibbitt, deflected into the back of the goal by Jo Westwood. The play continued end to end, goal-keeper Erin Gough showing composure and skill at the top of her D when challenged, leaving the score level at half time.

Saints took the lead following a penetrating pass from Lynn Rees, at right back, through to Jo Westwood, who took on a defender and the keeper at pace. Phoebe Richards put her name on the score-sheet, after some intricate play with Fi Tibbitt to set up the shot. The Saints defence were continually tested by the dynamic Cardiff Athletic forwards, prepared to make the most of any opportunities on the break. Erin Gough, in goal, again showed authority in the D, calling free players and making some crucial saves.

Cath Hodge from right back made some creative passes initiating attacking play.  Julie Baxter set Phoebe Richards up for her second, a superb finish into the top right hand corner. Cardiff Ath gained a consolation goal after gaining possession in midfield and profiting from an overload in the D.

The final whistle went with the final score at 4-2 to the Saints. Jo Westwood voted player of the match.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Cardiff Athletic - Saturday 5th December

Player of the match: Alys Gwyneth

In the final league game before the Christmas break, the Saints enjoyed a Friday night match against Cardiff Athletic. The previous league match, between the two teams, was a no score draw, so there was hope for a bit more excitement for this meeting. The first half tension rose as the Saints struggled to maintain possession, giving the ball away with loose passes. Despite this, the Saints did enter Cardiff Athletic’s D, but their defenders denied any reward for this advance.

Noelle Heffron showed some fantastic individual skill, dribbling up the pitch from left back, beating multiple players, only to miss the far post by millimetres. The Saints gained short corners, but were unable to convert, even with a bit of Disney magic! Emma Gowman, not knowing her own strength, managed to snap her stick as she tried to deliver a pass up the wing. The play continued end to end, but the score remained level until half time.

The second half produced more chances, Pheobe Richards hitting the post and a short corner effort being cleared from the goal line. The lead came from a long corner, following a quality strike from Zoe Grant, hit first time by Alys Gwyneth and deflected expertly into the goal by Jo Westwood. The game was ended 19 seconds from time when the flood lights were unceremoniously switched off!! A pleasing result for the Saints to finish the first part of the season.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Newtown (Shield) - Sunday 13th December

Newtown 1 – 5 Whitchurch Saints
Player of the match: Noelle

An 11 strong away side travelled to the wonderfully chilly Welshpool with determination to travel back (along the A470 and NOT the M6) with a win. Newtown began strongly with some long balls and solo runs from their attack. These early attacks were confidently defeated by the two centre backs Hodge and Cat with good saves from Gez in goal.
Having not had sufficient coffee and with players short on contact lenses and sleep (you know who you are!) the saints took a few minutes to settle into the game. Increasing in confidence through the half, Rhian and Judith worked well up the right and a relentless double force upfront in Suzie and Lynne brought two goals in the first half leaving Saints confident heading into the break.
With a strong 2nd half start it was clear that Newtown were not going to depart the shield without a fight. Having already narrowly missed the target with short corners in the first half it was a case of 3rd time lucky for the Newtown captain with a straight strike from top of the d sneaking past the left hand post.
This comeback was short lived however with Lynne and Suzie each claiming 2nd goals as the half progressed. Fi not wanting to be left out also found the target bringing the saints total to 5. In spite of brave efforts from Noelle who found herself in the attacking d on more than one occasion her first goal for saints was not to be.
Another win and a quarter final match versus Whitchurch ladies in January beckons!

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Haverfordwest - Saturday 28th November

Having drawn with Haverfordwest in the 1st match of the season the 1s were keen to achieve a better result having fully settled into prem. 1. The home advantage and a 9-player visiting side meant the opportunity was there to produce a convincing win.

Saints were quick to counter this; the first goal also coming from a short, following a deflection into the top corner from Jo Westwood. Some good diagonal balls from left back Emma Gowman provided chances up front and good foraging work from Julie Baxter on the right meant a second goal was inevitable before half time. Again Jo was on hand to claim a second goal off a penalty corner.
Heading into the break at half time with only a one goal cushion everyone knew we needed to pick up our game and capitalise on a weakened Haverfordwest team who had proven dangerous on the break.
The Saints penalty corner routine was an increasing threat with a third goal early in the first half this time from a top of the d strike by Emma Gowman. This was quickly followed however by an equally good goal from Haverfordwest again off a short corner strike inside the left hand post.
As the game progressed a tiring away side were to yield to the pressure. Jo was on form again to capitalise on a half block by one of the defenders, waiting for a high ball to land before striking past the keeper.
With further pressure and some great individual skill from Phoebe a fourth goal put Haverfordwest even further behind. Hailey Hillman also proved an ever menacing presence in front of the away team’s goal. A well placed pass again from Emma in defence found Hailey where she was able to capitalise with a well saved initial strike setting Becca Woods up for the rebound and final 6th goal.
After a brave fight a tired Haverfordwest side were put out of their misery with the full time whistle. A good win for Saints who now find themselves in fourth position in the league with plenty to take forward to the rest of the season.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Penarth 2's - Saturday 21st November

A flurry of short corners in the first 15 minutes for the Saints, eventually resulted in the Saints going 1-0 up. Julie Baxter topped it at top D, with Jo Westwood then chasing the rebound to put the Saints on the score-sheet. Despite taking control of the game, Saints still allowed Penarth to rattle them at times, however good communication and skills, meant the back four effectively cleaned up any penetrating play from Penarth.

Penarth 2s unsettled by Saints, showed a lack of discipline when tackling, consequently one was green carded. When a carbon-copy “shocking” tackle was witnessed later in the half, the umpires took a hard line and yellow-carded the offending Penarth player. Saints continued to press Penarth, Emma Gowman delivering some influential through balls from her right back position, targeting Fi Tibbitt, Jo Westwood and Sarah Millward making lead runs up front. Versatile Judith Livesey linking in well in midfield to help contain Penarth. The score-line rested at 1-0 at half time, not reflecting the Saints possession or territory.

Further dominance in Penarth’s D resulted in a short corner being awarded moments before the ball was tucked into the goal, which the Saints were then unable to convert. Periods of attacking play ensued, but the Saints were unable to hit the target, play tending to break down before the finishing shot could be unleashed. The periods of attack were well supported by midfielders Julie Baxter, Pheobe Richards and Alys Gwyneth, as always showing ingenuity and flare to push play up field. Play also being effectively transferred confidently utilising the composure of the defence.

Up front Hailey Hillman showed her skills and aggression to create opportunities, but the Saints continued to be denied by the Penarth keeper. A break through came when Millie calmly converted a pass to double the Saints’ lead. The play continued end to end, as both teams fought on. An attacking Penarth short corner ended unfavourably for Saints, as it crept into the bottom right of the goal, resulting in a consolation goal for the trailing team a minute from the end. The final whistle coming moments too soon for the Saints, as having advanced up the pitch, the sound of ball on back-board could be heard just seconds after full time, disallowing Alys Gwyneth her second goal of the season.

Central defender, Jenny Bayliss, was awarded player of the match, with the spread of votes including Alys Gwyneth, Jo Westwood, Emma Gowman and Noelle Heffron just demonstrating a good team performance. Thanks to Avril Gowman and Gemma Ible for support from the sideline.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Penarth 1's - Saturday 14th November

Another challenging match was on the cards for the Saints 1s this week, against unbeaten Penarth 1s. And start the match like league leaders they did; intercepting the ball from a Saints’ hit out and converting in style; the ball reeling past Erin Gough’s head in goal.

The Saints rallied against the confident Penarth side, but they extended their lead mid-way through the first half. The Saints defence, Noelle Heffron, Jenny Bayliss, Cath Hodge and Emma Gowman communicated well, working hard not to give away any advantage to the pressing opposition and successfully held strong until half time.

The second half started with the Saints trailing 2-0. Unwilling to relent, the Saints exposed the determination seen in previous matches. Alys Gwyneth holding her central position and distributing the ball well, established some attacking periods of play. Both Phoebe Richards and Julie Baxter, in the midfield, combining well to take the play into Penarth’s territory.

A well executed first time shot by Jo Westwood put the Saints on the score sheet, stemming from a free hit taken by Emma Gowman. Making good use of the self-pass rule Gowman took advantage of a free hit outside the D to deliver a gift ball towards the penalty spot for Westwood to convert in spectacular style.

Phoebe Richards, worked some hockey magic as she weaved her way up the pitch, delivering a ball for Westwood only to narrowly miss her second, with a cricketing “cover drive.” Penarth continued to press the fatiguing Saints side, and were rewarded with another goal, seemingly effortlessly hit into the back of the goal, after effectively moving the Saints to create open channels.

A tough match to play against the League leaders, but nevertheless a hearty performance from the Saints. Player of the Match awarded to Erin Gough in goal for her efforts in the heart of the defence.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v UWIC 1's- Saturday 7th November

A late push-back was no excuse for a sluggish start, however Jenny Bayliss (not a goal-keeper!) kicking the ball in front of goal within first 5 minutes, allowed UWIC to advance to an early 1-0 lead, successfully converting the penalty stroke. Spurred into action, the Saints awoke and began to close the UWIC players down, attempting to make the critical tackles further up the pitch.

UWIC continued to threaten the Saints D, and were successfully awarded a short corner. Nat Capel, running out bravely at number one, effectively defended the short corner pushing the play back up field, but managed to fracture her hand by putting her body on the line. Julie Baxter then switched to play centre half, with Emily Ashworth dropping back into midfield after Nat’s injury. Following the re-shuffle the Saints struggled to regain some composure.

Cath Hodge delivered accurate balls through to the forwards to begin the attack from our 25 yard area, but unfortunately the attacking periods of play were broken down with relative ease by the UWIC defence. UWIC tirelessly pressured the Saints’ transfers, however the defence were successful at times in changing the direction of attack; utilising the width created by Noelle Heffron and Emma Gowman on the outsides of the pitch.

UWIC’s second goal was expertly finished, when the Saints failed to close them down. The ball was crossed unopposed into the D and a UWIC forward volleyed it into the netting from close range; Erin Gough left with little opportunity to see the ball before picking it out of the goal. The score-line at half time was 2-0, reflecting a hard fought first half; UWIC successfully converting their chances.

UWIC were patient, continuing to transfer the ball waiting for the gaps to appear in the Saints’ formation. The forwards, Jo Westwood, Miz Turner, and Judith Livesey making lead runs up front, but unsuccessful in making it onto the score-sheet. UWIC capitalised when the marking became lax and coolly slotted the ball in, increasing their lead to three.

Saints goalkeeper, Erin Gough, was challenged multiple times, but kept her composure well. The final score a 3-0 loss reflecting UWIC’s dominance on the game. Player of the match awarded to Cath Hodge for her effective play in defence.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Cardiff Uni - Saturday 31st October

The Saints 1s approached this match with anticipation of a challenging game. Cardiff Uni started with pace, leaving the Saints to absorb a lot of pressure. Gaining a short corner, the Saints were ready for Cath Hodge to take the strike. However the quick defence made it impossible, forcing the Saints to change the routine to a slip left, narrowly missing the post on a few occasions.

Following a period of pressure in the Saints 25 yard area, Cardiff Uni capitalised and took the lead from a short corner. Continuing to progress, Cardiff Uni soon followed with a second goal past goal keeper Erin Gough to consolidate their lead. Cardiff Uni did not relent, maintaining the pressure, but were dealt with effectively by the defence; Liz Wakeling, in particular, making some well-needed tackles to keep Saints in it.

Eager to make it on to the score sheet, Saints capitalised on an attacking short corner just before the interval. A slight mis-hit from top D by Fi Tibbitt, fell to Jo Westwood poised to convert, leaving the score at 2-1 at half time.

A constructive half-time team talk saw the Saints renewed and keen to chase a good result from the game. Continuing to close the Saints down, Cardiff Uni also proved difficult to overcome in their defending D; Phoebe Richards and Jo Westwood denied by good saves from the Cardiff Uni keeper. However some attacking play from Saints pushing down the pitch culminated in Phoebe Richards getting the goal she deserved to bring the score level at 2-2.

The Saints did not rest, persevering with phases of attacking play orchestrated by Alys Gwyneth, Nat Capel and Julie Baxter in the midfield. No further additions to the goal sheet left the score at 2-2 at the final whistle.

Jo Westwood and Liz Wakeling sharing Player of the Match this week, after a fantastic display of skills at both ends of the pitch.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Bridgend - Saturday 24th October

Saints 1s faced their old rivals from last season as they met Bridgend 1s for the first time in Prem 1.
Bridgend started strong forcing Saints to stay calm and be patient. With some strong work starting in the defence Saints took control.

After 20 mins Jo Westwood opened the scoring coolly slotting the ball past the keeper. Increasing in confidence Saints pressured the Bridgend D and were unlucky not to be awarded a penalty flick but making the most of the short that they had won Emily Ashworth drove strongly to the left of the goal before slipping the ball across the face to Alys Gwyneth who scored the simplest but calmest of goals taking Saints into half time with a 2-0 lead.

At the start of the second half Saints maintained their pressure from the first, continuing to transfer the ball around the back through their defence, reliable as always! Bridgend had a few chances in the Saints’ D but with Erin Gough making some great saves including a cheeky back heal and mid air block, the goal was protected.

Emily (despite any poaching attempts by a donkey) restarted the scoring following in a rebound off the keeper after a lovely ball trough from Julie Baxter. The flood gates had opened, Zoe Grant picked out Jo Westwood with a long ball across the pitch for it to be powered past the keeper for Westwood’s second of the game.

Shortly after Zoe (Donkey) got the goal she had been looking for all game, taken with style. Inevitably having had so much pressure on them Bridgend were able to find a gap in the defence to create a breakaway and capitalised on a 1v1 with Erin.

Player of the match was awarded to Alys for the second time this season, recognising her strength and determination as well as the allusive goal. A great team performance that the girls should be proud of, continuing to make their mark on Prem 1.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Dowlais - Saturday 17th October

A lethargic start to the game left Saints trailing in the first 10 minutes to Dowlais, following a goal scored on the break. Saints re-grouped and gained some composure to draw the score-line level through a goal slipped past Dowlais’ keeper by Emily Ashworth, set up via some good work by Jo Westwood.
Back on level pegging, Dowlais continued to cause considerable disruption to a normally settled Saints’ side, resulting in end to end play. The dead-lock was broken when Emily converted some scrambling play in the D with a well-executed reverse stick flick.

Some intricate play up the right-hand side of the pitch by Judith Livesey and Julie Baxter proved troublesome for Dowlais, yet fruitless for the Saints. Nat Capel and Alys Gwyneth both intercepting and distributing the ball well from the midfield, ensured some flowing attacks. The half time whistle was blown moments too soon, with the Saints applying more pressure to Dowlais in their D, leaving the Saints 1 goal ahead mid way through the game.

The second half proved as frustrating as the first, which left the Saints being encouraged by their sideline supporters Avril Gowman, Nia Gough and Biscuit to keep the momentum going. Becky Woods, making some excellent runs up front, was able to capitalise on a rebounded shot, providing Saints with a 2 goal lead.

The Saints demonstrated some good transfers across the back and midfield, spreading the ball wide. Dowlais were not however prepared to give up and continued to threaten the Saints’ defence. Saints’ defence remained solid denying any reward for multiple penalty corners awarded against them; Emma Gowman running out bravely at number one. Dowlais were awarded a penalty stroke following a Saints error when clearing the ball from the goal-line. Dowlais duly maximised the opportunity to reduce the Saints’ lead to 1.

At the final whistle the score-line remained 2-3 to the Saints, who welcome the 3 points in their first win of the season. Man of the match went to Emily Ashworth. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Cardiff Athletic - Sunday 11th October 2009 Cup

With some key players missing and the rest of the team still recovering from a hard fought match on Friday night Saints were unable to contain Cardiff Athletic in the preliminary round of the Welsh Cup. Following a goalless draw in the league the week previously, their third meeting in three weeks finally went the way of Cardiff Athletic.

Saints started with some very positive hockey. Good work via the right flank allowed Saints to penetrate the oppositions ‘D’ with chances going wide of the goal. One such attack looked as if it would bear fruit for Saints but Athletic were able to intercept in their defensive circle with some fine tackling. The ball was swiftly moved upfield for the forwards to score a rebound off the post.

Despite having most of the possession, Saints were unable to take their chances in the D and did not take advantage of numerous penalty corners. Athletic’s second goal again came from a counterattack. A flick was awarded after goalkeeper Erin Gough bravely took on the striker in a 1 on 1 situation which would have otherwise resulted in a goal.

Saints continued to pressure until the final whistle but unfortunately will not be making any more appearances in the cup this season.
Saints must take positives from this match as they kept their structure well, good performances from Natalie Capel and Alys Gwyneth in midfield, and created numerous chances throughout the game.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Howardians - Friday 9thOctober 2009

An exciting Friday night match for the Saints’ 1s against Howardians - Prem 1 League winners last year provided suitable entertainment for the spectators.
The scoring was opened by Sarah Millward in the first short corner of the game, lobbing the Howards keeper after the initial strike was saved.

The Saints’ proved challenging opposition for Howards, maintaining the pace, however Saints’ defence were punished for any errors. Howards equalised when a transfer across the back went astray, was intercepted and coolly slotted away past Erin Gough in goal.
Emma Gowman (voted by Howards as Player of the Match) showed her individual skill and team awareness pushing the attack up the right-hand side of the pitch.

Not prepared to give up, Saints battled on, working hard to maintain possession. Alys Gwyneth (voted by Saints as Player of the Match) shined in the centre midfield demonstrating her distribution skills. All equal at 1-1 at half time.

The second half was no disappointment, the Saints absorbing a large amount of pressure created by Howards. Unfortunately the dead-lock was broken by another poached goal by the relentless Howards attack. Saints continued to the end of the match with the play going from end-to-end, but were unable to capitalise on opportunities created and eventually losing 1 - 2.

A fantastic effort by the Saints’ 1s achieving a brilliant result to be proud of. Thank you to all supporters and we were particularly pleased to see Louise McCarroll on the sideline.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Cardiff Athletic I - Saturday 3rd October 2009

Saints' continued their steady start to the new season with a satisfactory 0-0 draw against Cardiff Athletic.

Both teams showed some inspired play but neither could capitalise. Saints' defence were solid as always, defending a run of short corners with great effect. With some committed play from Erin ensuring that Cardiff Ath did not get the opportunity to get near the goal.

At the other end the attack struggled to hit the target with numerous chances going wide or being stolen by defenders at the last moment. It was a good performance all round but has highlighted areas which are still needing considerable work. To gain 2 points from the opening 2 games is a good foundation. Man of the match deservedly was Cath Hodge.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Haverfordwest - Saturday 26th September 2009

Whitchurch Saints 1st XI drew 2 - 2 with Haverfordwest in the first Prem 1 league game of the season.

A slow start by the Saints, allowed Haverfordwest to take control in the opening part of the game. The home team camped out in the Saints’ end and were rewarded with two goals in the first half. The first coming from a well worked short corner routine; deflected up past Erin, in goal, from about the penalty spot. Haverfordwest’s second came from open play. After gaining possession in their own D, they advanced the length of the pitch with some accurate passing. A quick strike on goal beat the back-tracking Saints’ defence.

Saints then began to settle, and increased in confidence as passing and movement became more dynamic. Some attacking play by Noelle, storming down the left created opportunities. Alys was able to distribute the ball well from her pivotal position in centre midfield, spreading the play and changing the channel of attack effectively. Both sides looked to attack, both having their share of possession, but no further reward for either side in the first half.

Approximately 5 minutes into the second half Fi converted a pass from Phoebe, who had driven to the back line and drawn the keeper from the centre of her goal, initiating the Saints’ fight back. Our second goal was slotted away by Phoebe, after a fantastic display of individual skill, dribbling up the pitch, taking on multiple Haverfordwest players.

Saints’ tried to keep their composure as we tired towards the end of the game. Alys managing to get yellow carded for upsetting the umpire with minutes to go, leaving the Saints’ to absorb the pressure from Haverfordwest in the closing moments.
A pleasing result for the first league match in Prem 1; the Saints showing excellent strength of character and determination to come back from two goals down. Thanks to Cat for coming along at such short notice and for the support on the side line from Vicki Sutton (Coach), Avril Gowman and Jo Westwood.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Saints 2nd XI - Saturday 19th September2009

Saints 1st XI won 3 - 0.

An early start for this intra-club friendly, was welcomed by all who participated (especially Julie and Noelle!!) Again, a useful opportunity for getting back into the swing of hockey ready for the first league match next week. Some end-to-end hockey was played, with Phoebe scoring a hat-trick on her 3rd appearance for the club! Team awareness is improving alongside multiple displays of individual skill. The Saints’ 2s proved challenging opposition, forcing the 1s to utilise practiced patterns of play to capitalise on available space to maintain possession. Both teams appear to be getting used to the new self-pass rule, which will need to be worked on.

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Whitchurch Saints 1st XI v Cardiff Athletic - Saturday 12th September2009

Saints 1st XI won 1 - 0
A good performance by the first team in a pre-season friendly against Cardiff Ath. We used this match as an opportunity for the squad to settle in preparation for the new season following promotion last year. Keeping the focus on the basics, a lot of the match was spent in the middle section of the pitch, working on maintaining positioning, passing and communication. Despite the warm, tiring September weather, it was an enjoyable match, showing much promise for the approaching league matches. The Saints’ goal was a just reward following a flowing period of play, near the end of the match.