15th March
2008
Bracknell
ladies 1s
v West
Whitney
5
1
For the
final game
of the
season,
Bracknell
ladies 1s
had a
point to
prove -
that the
first half
of the
season
wasn`t a
fluke and
that they
could
really
play some
good
hockey,
and get
the much
needed win
they
deserved.
Man of
the Match,
Lyndsey
Seaton
lead the
charge and
Bracknell
pulled off
one of the
best wins
of the
campaign,
a 5-1
defeat of
West
Witney.
From
the first
whistle
Bracknell
were
camped in
the West
Witney
half,
putting
pressure
on their
defence,
and
forcing a
number of
short
corners.
It wasnt
long
before the
good
attacking
play lead
to the
first of a
brace from
Seaton.
She had
the first
shot from
the top of
the D,
Rachel
Ackroyd
picked up
the
rebound
and rolled
it back to
Seaton for
her to
crack it
into the
net. The
2nd goal
came
shortly
after,
when
Rachel
Powell
made a
perfect
defence
splitting
pass to
Ackroyd on
the
baseline,
who slammed
it into
the net
from an
extemely
tight
angle.
2-0. Goal
number 3
came from
the
partnership
again of
Seaton and
Ackroyd,
this time
from a
short
corner,
Ackroyd
struck
first at
the
keeper,
who made a
good save
only for
Seaton to
follow up
with the
rebound.
3-0.
Bracknell
were on
fire by
now and
West
Witney
seemed to
have
nowhere to
go! The
fourth
goal came
again from
a short
corner,
this time
it was
defender
Debbie
Jackson
who popped
up on the
top of the
D to
strike the
perfect
shot. 4-0.
Bracknell
marched on
inspite of
some
unwanted
attention
from the
W.Witney
left
winger,
who tried
all sorts
of tactics
to slow us
down. The
fifth and
final
Bracknell
goal came
when some
excellent
work from
the
tireless
Heaver and
Powell in
midfield
created
the cross
from the
right for
Holly
Bentley to
make one
of her
legendary
runs into
the D to
get
herself on
the end of
it and
slot the
ball home.
West
Witney did
stage a
fight back
towards
the end of
the game,
and
Bracknell
allowed
them to
score a
consolation
goal. 5-1
was the
final
score.
It has
been an
excellent
and
unexpectedly
successful
first
season in
the south
league 3A
for
Bracknell,
and one on
which they
can build
on their
fantastic
4th place.
|
8th
March
2008
Bracknell Ladies 1 (0) v
Staines 3 (3)
Bracknell
buoyed by last weeks win
over Southgate entered the
game with high spirits
although down on numbers
with family planning and
Gladiators taking priority.
The disruption affected
Bracknell and they had a
first half to forget. Three
mistakes gifted Staines a
3-0 lead by half time and
despite Bracknell having
numerous escapades into the
Staines 25 yard area, they
were unable to convert.
A half time dressing down by
the well dressed Lorna
Goodwin, made it quite clear
as to Bracknell’s
objectives. Cut out the
mistakes and they would win
the second half. Bracknell
decided to give it their all
and every player stepped up
the plate. Rachel Ackroyd in
particular was strong in
attack forcing a number of
short corners in the second
half but Staines seemed to
be covering the goal line
with their entire defence
blocking all shots on goal.
When Staines did progress
into Bracknell’s half some
excellent defending by
Alison “Toddy” Eatwell and
Suzy Hardiman meant there
were very few chances on
goal. Rachel Powell – Dame
of the Game – was committed
in defence as well as
attack. Using her "Mr
Tickle" arms she was able to
get the tackles in to win
the ball before going round
three players to start the
next attack.
Finally, Bracknell got their
reward. Rachel Powell
started a move that ended
with Rachel Ackroyd slotting
the ball into the goal
underneath the diving
Staines ‘keeper. Cheers went
up all around the ground as
Bracknell fought on.
Unfortunately, Staines were
able to stifle the Bracknell
attacks and with the two
goal advantage soaked up the
pressure. Despite all their
efforts Bracknell were
unable to score again, but
at least they won the second
half.
|
1st March 2008
Bracknell Ladies 1st 2 - 1 Southgate
South League 3A now in 5th place on goal
difference from West Hampstead.
Bracknell were in need of a win after a number
of disappointing results. Bracknell began
strongly and it was only a few minutes before
they capitalised on one of their chances.
Lyndsey Seaton who began the move by driving
the ball to the top of the D and passing to
Dash hHaver on the right hand post. Heaver
unselfishly passed to Holly Bentley, who had
made a brilliantly timed run from midfield
onto the left post, who struck the ball into
the corner of the goal. This lifted
Bracknell's spirits and they continued to
battle hard and kept control of the game up
to half time.
Bracknell knew Southgate would come out hard
in the second half and the home side soaked up
the early pressure to keep Bracknell ahead.
10 minutes into the 2nd half Bracknell held
possession well and created many chances and
were unlucky not to go 2-0 ahead. Lyndsey
Seaton's constant attacking created a number
of chances for Bracknell and was instrumental
in winning her player of the game. 20 minutes
into the 2nd half Seaton received the ball in
the centre of the pitch and took on several
Southgate defenders, successfully manouvering
around them, she drove the ball into the right
hand side of the D and crossed to Rachel
Ackroyd on the left hand post who deflected
the ball into the goal. Southgate did not quit
and they came back very strongly winning
themselves a penalty flick which was
successfully converted despite Keeper Jen
Sawyer's full length dive. The last 10 minutes
of the game were tough and tense but
Bracknell's defence contained the pressure and
the home team fully deserved the victory.
Bracknell Ladies 2's v
Wokingham 2's
Bracknell started strongly and showed great
composure and skill and put Wokingham on their
back foot from the start. It wasn't long
before Bracknell started scoring. The first
one came from Keelee Chalk who scored from a
slick reverse stick shot after good open play
by Bracknell. The team carried on applying
pressure and great movement down the left by
Sam Hall and Sarah Jane Grindley led to the
second goal where Katja Challen made the final
pass to Pip Spibey in front of the GK who
deftly scored with reverse stick too.
Wokingham were still outplayed when Bracknell
were awarded a short corner. Liz Cushenan
accurately injected to Kelly Lockyer who beat
a defender and then coolly slotted the ball
home to make it 3-0 to Bracknell.
Goal 4 came before half time when Keelee Chalk
scored her second goal. A free hit quickly
taken by Katja Challen found Keelee Chalk who
skilfully picked up the ball and beat the
keeper.
4-0 at half time left Wokingham deflated and
Bracknell on a high. The second half saw a
Wokingham side who dominated from the start
and saw Bracknell fail to impress with a poor
performance. Wokingham came back and
deservedly scored 2 goals with 20 minutes
left. This encouraged them further and
Wokingham attacked with more endeavour but the
final score remained a 4-2 win to Bracknell.
|
24th Feb 2008
Henley
3 v 0 Bracknell Ladies 1st South
Div 3A
Playing with in a new
formation and determined to repay Henley for their 1-0 defeat
at home earlier in the season, Bracknell started well and with
renewed vigour spent the opening five minutes camped in the
hosts 25. However this early pressure was not rewarded.
The next fifteen
minutes saw the game contained in the midfield where
Bracknell’s midfield turned over time and again. Henley then
broke through and opened the scoring.
Maintaining the
pressure Bracknell stepped up and Rachel Ackroyd showed her
pace and skill to force the foul and win a penalty corner, but
the opportunity was wasted. Henley came straight back and won
a corner of their own, who made a far stronger attempt to
score but man of the match Debbie Jackson was on form and
saved it off the line. The half continued with end to end
hockey.
The second half was
eventful: with keeper Jen Sawyer, being harshly penalised for
a diving tackle, and conceding the resulting stroke; Suzy
Hardingham taking out her own defender as she ignored the
keepers call and drove the ball across the D, through Alison
Eatwell and out the other side; captain Holly Bentley
resorting to physical contact to take a quick free hit and
another goal from Henley.
All in all not the
best performance or result intended but Bracknell maintain
their position of 5th in the league. They will need to
convert opportunity into goals if they are to finish the
season in the top half of the table. Their remaining three
matches are all against lower opposition but should not be
underestimated.
Rachel
16th Feb 2008
Bracknell Ladies
1 0 - 2
Wycombe Rye
Bracknell won the push
back and started with purpose, as they had something to prove
after a poor run of results since the Christmas break.
Bracknell pressured Wycombe for
the first minutes of the game but unfortunately couldn’t
complete the final phase in order to capitalize on any
chances. After 5 minutes Wycombe broke down play and got the
ball to their attacking backline and won a free hit outside
the D, they took it quickly and managed to score from it. The
rest of the first half saw Wycombe have the run of play and
they managed to score a second goal from a rebounded short
corner. Bracknell showed some moments of promise with Rachel
Ackroyd winning a short corner and Dash Heaver putting
pressure on Wycombe’s defence.
Photo of Deb Jackson 1st
team defence courtesy of Ali Eatwell
At half time Bracknell were
given a stern team talk and came out for the second half with
a renewed focus. The midfield worked hard at breaking down
Wycombe’s play and moving the ball around, Bracknell started
to look like the team they were before Christmas playing as a
team. The defence stayed solid and Debbie Jackson put in some
great tackles to prevent Wycombe scoring. The whole team put
in a fighting performance, but was unable to beat the Wycombe
keeper. The final score was a 2-0 loss for Bracknell, and
women of the match went to Dash Heaver. Good luck next week
for the fixture against Henley ladies
|
Bracknell Ladies 1s
2 -
1 Newbury and
Thatcham
South Div 3A
On the back of two disappointing results
Bracknell went into their game with high hopes of regaining
their winning ways against bottom of the table Newbury.
Bracknell always looked threatening on the break, but
despite some good crosses coming in from left and right
flanks, they failed to take their chances. Lyndsey Seaton
unfortunately left the field after 10 minutes with a
recurrent back problem, but Sam Hall stepped in to make her
first team debut, putting in a very creditable performance
and delivering a number of penetrating passes through to the
forwards.
Some sloppy tackles saw Bracknell concede
a number of short corners, but their defence on those,
thankfully proved solid throughout the match. Just before
the half time interval Rosie Bateman picked up the ball on
the right wing, took it round a couple of defenders and
passed it to Rachel Ackroyd inside the D. Despite being
tightly marked, she neatly slipped the ball inside to
captain Holly Bentley, who made no mistake in first timing
it to beat a Newbury defender and the goalie and take
Bracknell into a timely 1-0 lead.
The second half saw Bracknell moving the
ball well at times, but once again they were unable to put
their chances away and squandered possession by giving the
ball away too often. Newbury were not going to give up
without a fight and capitalised on some poor passing and
some tired legs by the home team, to level the match with a
nicely worked goal of their own with only 6 minutes to go.
This seemed to give Bracknell a much needed wake up call and
having seen a couple of corners go begging, they finally
stepped up to the mark. A neatly worked corner between Dash
Heaver, Debbie Jackson and Rosie Bateman, saw Bateman drill
the ball home and put the home team back in front with 4
minutes on the clock remaining. This was not a lead
Bracknell were going to relinquish at this stage in the
game, helped enormously by another fine performance from
Yellie Powley deputising in goal, who pulled off some
crucial saves especially in the final quarter, to keep the
visitors out.
Captain Holly Bentley worked tirelessly
all day, tackling relentlessly and always looked dangerous
going forward and inspired her team to pick up a much needed
3 points. Bracknell will need to build on this and deliver a
much more convincing performance next week though and for
the remainder of the season, if they want to remain serious
contenders near the top of the table.
|
26th January 2008
Bracknell Ladies 1st
0 v 1 Banbury
South Div 3A
Bracknell
ladies 1’s travelled away to face Banbury 1’s who were currently sitting in 2nd
place in South league div 3 A .
They knew it would be a close match after having a hard fought 2-0 victory in
the home fixture before Christmas.
The 1st
half saw a fast paced ,
end to end, evenly match game with neither team successfully penetrating the
other’s defence. Most of the play seemed to be in the midfield of the pitch
with both team’s midfielders cancelling out the other. Both teams had a number
of short corners but were un-able to convert them and Bracknell had a couple
of shots go wide of the posts.
The 2nd
half again was very closely fought and again saw neither team gaining many
striking opportunities with some solid defending from player of the match
Alison “Toddy” Eatwell helping Bracknell’s cause. Rachel Ackroyd was unlucky
not to get onto the score sheet with a superb individual effort into the D to
undercut the ball from a tight angle on the right, which was unfortunately
saved by the Banbury keeper.
It was
Banbury’s superior pace and fitness that won out in the end with a quick break
on goal in numbers following a poor pass on the right that was intercepted.
Perhaps a lesson to be learned for Bracknell if they wish to push for
promotion next season. The result drops them to 4th in the
division, although they have a chance to get back to scoring ways this weekend
against bottom of the table Newbury at home.
26th January
2008
Bracknell Ladies 2s v Gerrards Cross
Trysports Div 2
Bracknell continue to build on their successful run by beating Gerrards
Cross 8-0 at home. The strength of the squad shone through as five of the team
members scored goals, most of which were from open play. Pip Spibey quickly
scored twice at the start of the match, followed by goals from Katya Challen and
Kelly Lockyer and then, just before half time, a stunning strike from
midfielder Jane Theodoulou secured a 5-0 advantage at half time.
The home side continued to surge forward in the second half but play was more
open and Gerrards Cross had a few opportunities of their own - but failed to
capitalise. Bracknell's continued pressure on the visitors defence resulted in
a further 3 goals by Challen, Lockyer and Bianca Chalk to complete a well
deserved final score of 8-0.
19th January 2008
Bracknell Ladies 1st
1 - 7 Teddington
South Womens League Div 3a
Bracknell prepared themselves for a tough game after the 6-1 defeat at the
beginning of the season but after a good run before christmas and their
current position of 2nd in the table, they believed that they could give
Teddington a good game. Bracknell began postively and held possession well but
Teddington took their chances and clinical finishing saw 4 goals in quick
succession. Bracknell did not let this dishearten them and continued to
battle. The midfield were missing Rachel Powell through injury but Danielle
Powley stood up to the challenge and her continuous running and battling saw
her both helping out the defence and creating numerous attacking opportunites. This
won her the "man of the match" vote from her team mates.
Bracknell went into half time 4-0 down and knew the second half was about
minising the goal difference. They managed to contain Teddington for the first
15 minutes and had more attacking play but were unable to take any of their
chances and the next 10 minutes saw another 3 goals from Teddington, one of
them being a penalty flick for an infringement on the goal line. Bracknell
continued to battle hard which finally paid off in the 70th minute when Dash
Heaver jabbed the ball away from one of the defenders on the edge of the D and
calmly took the ball around the keeper and struck the ball into the goal. A
well deserved consolation goal for Bracknell as the score was not a true
reflection of the game.
Bracknell Ladies 2s v Sonning
Trysports Div 2
Fourth place Bracknell Ladies 2s travelled to
Sonning in a battle for 3rd place in the league. Bracknell soaked up some
early pressure from Sonning by defending well in the opening 10 minutes.
Bracknell broke up Sonning's possession with a great interception by Pip
Spibey. Katja Challen then placed a neat pass into Helena Wells, who took a
great shot, which was deflected past the GK to give Bracknell a 1-0 lead.
Bracknell stepped up the pace of the game and played some lovely Hockey. They
were rewarded when a superb individual run from Kats Challen ended in a great
strike from the top of the circle to make it 2-0 at half time.
After the break, Bracknell came out with determination and picked up where
they left off. Kats Challen took a quick free hit outside the circle which
found Kelly Lockyer, who made a great darting run into the D and neatly struck
the ball past the keeper with a first time strike.
Shortly after, Sonning broke through the strong Bracknell defence and scored
their only goal of the game, to make the score 3-1. However, Bracknell
responded quickly, with great work from Jane Theodolou and Kelly Lockyer in
the midfield. Bracknell played the ball up the pitch to Kats Challen who
picked up the ball and shimmied past 2 Sonning Defenders and struck
Bracknell's 4th goal high into the net. Bracknell capped off a solid
performance, with Kelly Lockyer's 2nd of the game and Bracknells 5th, after
the ball broke to her at the top of the D, she passed a defender and placed
the ball neatly past the keeper to make the final score 5-1 to Bracknell.
A special mention must go to Kate Allen who had a fantastic game in defence to
keep Sonning at bay. Bracknell now move into 3rd place and welcome Gerards
Cross to Bracknell next week in the hope of continuing their great run of
form.
12th Jan 2008
Bracknell ladies 1 v Basingstoke
This week Bracknell faced another opponent
from the South League Div 3B - the equivalent League to their own in which they
hold 2nd place.From Last weeks three nil defeat Bracknell hoped to make amends
against the visitors Basingstoke. After a sprightly start Bracknell piled on the
pressure but could not convert this to goals. Yellie Powley playing in goal -
out of her normal position in midfield, was not put under pressure and Bracknell
started to feel confident. This proved to be their downfall.
As the first half quickly evaporated, Basingstoke started to pile on the
pressure and only good saves by Powley kept them out. However a couple of short
corners later and Bracknell were one nil down despite the endeavours of Powley
and defender Ali Eatwell . Great play on the left by Suzy Hardingham and Holly
Bentley kept the home side's attacking options open, but Bracknell could not
convert. Dash Heaver continually hassled the visitors defence and although over
zealous at times escaped the umpire's wrath and avoided a green card and a team
fine.
The second half started with a flurry as Bracknell tried to penetrate the
Basingstoke defence. Again their efforts were not converted despite a great
short corner effort by captain Emma Cox and an unfortunate disallowed goal.
Then it was Basingstoke's turn to put pressure on Bracknell. The visitors had a
few short corners that were saved but finally after stopping on the right the
Basingstoke forward rifled the ball in towards the left post but neither keeper
nor post player could prevent the ball ending up in the left hand corner of
Bracknell's goal. This then became an unassailable lead and Bracknell were
unable to reply but came away from the game having had some useful tactical
practice in readiness for their top of the table match v Teddington next week .
All support is welcome.
5th January 2008
Guildford 3 - Bracknell Ladies 1s 0
Bracknell went into their friendly against Guildford in desperate need of
some match practice having had only one game in the six weeks since the league
had ended pre Christmas. From the outset it was clear that Guildford were much
the sharper team. At times Bracknell created some good attacking moves when
they moved the ball early, but failed to put the Guildford keeper under any
real pressure. Guildford however looked strong in all areas of the park,
especially on the break and mid-way through the first half their persistence
saw them rewarded with a goal and they went into the interval 1-0 up.
With coach Lorna Goodwin unfortunately missing for a week to offer some
words of wisdom at half time, Bracknell faltered somewhat and made a very slow
start to the second half with too many passing errors and no real sense of
purpose. Guildford continued to threaten and put the Bracknell defence under
pressure winning a succession of short corners and despite an initial save on
the post, the ball then hit a foot and a penalty was duly awarded. Youngster
and man of the match Grace Lawes, making her debut in goal for the
season, pulled off a fine save to ensure the visitors were still in the game.
This seemed to give Bracknell a bit of a wake up call and they managed to
secure a couple of corners of their own, but were unable to capitalise on
them. With six minutes to go the floodlights suddenly went off and after a
rather lengthy delay they were turned back on, but by then Bracknell appeared
somewhat switched off themselves and Guildford capitalised on this to snatch
two late goals and run out deserved winners.
With only one more friendly next week against Basingstoke before the league
re-starts, Bracknell will really have to step up to the mark if they are to
maintain their second place in South League Div 3a when they meet clear league
leaders Teddington the week after.
1st December 2007
After the first half of the South Womens League Div 3A
programme, Bracknell Ladies 1sts are lying in second place behind Teddington.
For a newly promoted side this is an excellent start to their South League
careers.
The Ladies 2nds played a key TrysportsDiv 2 game against
Banbury, who were lying just below them in the table. Bracknell took an early
lead through demon striker Kelly Lockyer and were unlucky not to have 3 goals on
the score sheet by halftime when Katja Challen hit the net twice, but on both
occasions the goals were disallowed. Bracknell lost a little concentration just
before half time and allowed Banbury to equalise. The second half was
frustrating and edgy with neither team able to break the deadlock and Bracknell
had to be satisfied with one point instead of 3 and dropped to 4th place but
still with Banbury 1 point below them.
24th November 2007
Bracknell Ladies 1’s v West Witney
Result 5 -1
Bracknell ladies were fired up
for their game against west Witney in the south league div 3a tie.
The ladies stepped into the game confidently which quickly lead to a
short corner and a sweeping goal from Rosie Bateman 21/2minutes into the game.
West Witney replied 10 minutes
later with an equaliser. This shook up the Bracknell side who then cranked up
the pressure and replied after a fantastic cross from Emma Cox’s sideline ball
which was picked up by Lindsey Seaton just outside the ‘D’ and with a dummy
confused the goal keeper and struck home.
Yellie Powley then added to the attack and picking up the ball just
outside the attacking 25 yard line, passed several of the West Witney defence,
pulled the ball back and slotted it in from a very tight angle on the base line.
Bracknell went into the second half 3-1 up and still hungry for more.
After gaining an early short corner, Emma Cox slipped the ball to Rosie Bateman
who swept the ball into the goalkeeper. The ball deflected into Dash Heaver's
path which she happily propelled past the Witney keeper over the line.
In a period of end to
end action, Bracknell Keeper Jenny Sawyer was kept on her toes and made some
fantastic saves. Finally, Bracknell gained a short corner from a dodgy Stick
tackle in front of goal and Rosie Bateman finished with a distinctly clinical
strike at goal.
Bracknell came out of their
last league game before Christmas break with a justifiable 5-1 result. They now
eagerly await the Henley V Teddington result with potential to step in to second
position in the league.
Ladies
2's
Unfortunately the Ladies 2nds
early match away in Oxfordshire was postponed due to a frozen pitch and will
have to be re-played sometime before Christmas.
17th Nov 2007
Bracknell Ladies
1st v Staines 2nd
Score 2 -
1
Bracknell ladies 1’s travelled away
to Staines knowing it would be a hard fight as Staines lay only 1 place below
Bracknell in South league Div 3A .
Bracknell started well and passed
the ball around quickly, causing the Staines midfield a headache as they were
outplayed by the sharp Bracknell midfield.
Despite this, Bracknell were
un-able to penetrate the Staines defence and mid way through the 1st
half, they lost momentum and eased off the pace. This allowed Staines into the
game leading to a series of quick breaks by their pacy forwards, one of which,
Staines converted into a goal.
Bracknell determined not to be
deflated, came back with tenacious work from the midfield, in particular from
Yellie Powley and player of the match Rachel Powell. Bracknell broke into
Staines defensive D in numbers and this resulted in a well struck goal from the
left by Yellie Powley to bring the score even again.
Bracknell came out for the 2nd
half showing more determination and re-gaining the quick passing and pace of the
1st quarter of the match. More good work from the midfield, some
solid defending and marking from the whole team meant that Staines could not
repeat the quick breaks from the latter part of the 1st half and
frustration lead to them often giving the ball away.
Bracknell capitalised on this and
broke into Staines defensive D several times with some quick breaks of their
own. After continuous pressure from the Bracknell attack, Staines yeilded and
gave away a penalty stroke for a foot stopping a shot on the
line. Un-fortunately Bracknell could not convert leaving the score still even.
Bracknell were finally rewarded
when they turned around a quick defensive free hit which lead to a long ball
down the left finding Rachel Ackroyd unmarked. She drove into the D, beat
a defender and whizzed the ball across in front of the Staines keeper and
found the diving Steph Hendryks on the right post to put Bracknell 2-1 up.
Yellie Powley Ladies 1st Midfielder and scorer
The remaining 15 minutes were very
tense and Staines tried their hardest to even the score, but the defensive 4 of
Libby Mound, Holly Bentley, Suzy Hardingham & Toddy Eatwell soaked up the
pressure conceding nothing and Bracknell came out the deserved winners.
Bracknell look forward to a chance
of going into 2nd place in the league next week when they play lowly
Witney whilst 2nd placed Henley play the unbeaten League leaders
Teddington.
Bracknell Ladies
2s v Reading 3s Trysports |Div 2
Result 3
- 3
Bracknell Ladies 2s
were straight off the mark this week, against their local rivals – the Reading
3s. Within 1 minute of play starting, Katja Challen had put a fabulous ball past
the Reading goalie, after a great pass from Keelee Chalk. However Reading didn’t
allow Bracknell the time to celebrate and hit back hard with some attacking play
of their own. Bracknell's defence held strong with sweeper Liz Cushenan making
numerous clearances out of the ‘D’ and Fiona Lewis intercepting Readings short
corner strike. Despite this Reading managed to convert their second short corner
to level the score. Bracknell then used the short time left in the first half to
the best of their ability, and this impressive play was finished by a goal from
Keelee Chalk, hitting the backboard just seconds before the whistle blew.
Liz Cushenan Ladies 2's Sweeper
The team set out
composed and determined after half time, with some beautiful play on the left
wing between Sarah-Jane Gridley and Jane Theodoulou. Bracknell,s third goal came
from Katja Challen reacting quickly to convert a Reading mistake on a hit-out.
Two goals down, Reading started to fight more for the ball which in turn caused
Bracknell to panic and make mistakes. Reading exploited the errors and
inevitably scored a second goal. Shortly after, Reading netted again to level
the score. Bracknell then lifted their heads and were unlucky to not convert
several attacking chances. The final whistle went and Bracknell had their final
chance at victory with a short corner left to take, however it was not meant to
be as the team fumbled, leaving the final score as 3-3.
10th Nov 2007
Bracknell ladies 1st v Southgate 1st
Result 3 -
2
Bracknell arrived at Southgate later than expected due to traffic delays
on the M25 and found it hard toget going. The home side pushed forward utilising
their strength in midfield causing the Bracknell defence some early headaches.
The visitors weathered the storm and against the run of play took first blood. A
long ball down the left wing was collected by Rosie Bateman and run to the back
line. From there she passed back to the slippery Rachel Ackroyd who beat her
defender, drew the keeper and chipped into the net for a surprising 1-0 lead.
Bracknell took heart and moved forward as a unit, consolidating their lead just
5 minutes later again from the left. Ackroyd again picked up a cross in the D
but unselfishly passed across the goal to Lyndsey Seaton who had timed her run
to perfection and slotted the ball home inside the right hand post.
The balance of the game shifted early in the second half, and persistent
attacks from Southgate earned them a penalty corner. The shot bobbled off
defender, Ali Eatwell, only to be scrambled into the goal by an alert Southgate
forward. Southgate grew in confidence and continued to put the Bracknell defence
under pressure. A second penalty corner was awarded and in the melee infront of
goal Southgate sneaked the ball in off keeper Jen Sawyers leg to level at 2-2.
This gave Bracknell the shock they needed, and tenacity and work rate in the
midfield from Yellie Powley, Pachel Powell and Dash Heaver turned the tables
again, surprising the Southgate defence into giving away a penalty corner. The
routine ended with the ball on Rosie Bateman's stick who sent her shot rocketing
over the bar! With time running out a reverse stick pass from left to right was
run onto by Rachel Powell - she passed back left to Lyndsey Seaton - she
delivered to an anxiously waiting Rachel Ackroyd directly in front of goal.
Although the Southgate goalie parried the initial shot, Ackroyd determined as
ever, threw herself at the ball, netted and won the game for Bracknell once
again earning herself Player of the Match. This keeps the team in 3rd place in
South Div 3A.
Rachel Ackroyd - double scorer
Bracknell Ladies 2s against Newbury and Thatcham
Result 9 - 0
Bracknell travelled to Newbury & Thatcham looking to improve on their
performance against Wokingham last week. Bracknell set the pace early on, with a
neat one -two between Kelly Lockyer and Kats Challen at the top of the D, with
Lockyer passing the last Newbury defender and slotting the ball past the keeper.
In quick succession, Bracknell again applied pressure on the Newbury defence
with great link up play on the right between Hilary Westwood and Kelly Lockyer.
Lockyer crossed the ball again after piercing the Newbury defence to allow Kats
Challen an easy strike for Bracknells 2nd.
The early goal rout continued, with Kelly Lockyer adding her second of the game
shortly after. Kats Challen also scored a further 2 superb individual efforts to
complete her hat trick, to make the half time score 5-0 to Bracknell.
Katja
Challen scorer of 5 goals
After half time, Bracknell continued to press forward creating numerous chances
but were unsuccessful. Mid- way through the second half, Kats Challen added her
fourth of the game and Caroline Apsey, broke her goal drought by striking a
superb goal from the top of the D from a short corner. Caroline was unucky not
to double her goal tally after another good strike from a short corner, but was
neatly secured by Hilary Westwood.
Kats Challen rounded of a superb team and personal performance by scoring her
5th of the game in fantastic style. Challen pounced on a through ball and
chipped it passed the keeper to hit the net in the top right hand corner.
Bracknell went away with an impressive 9-0 away win and hope to build on the
performance against Reading next week in Trysports Div 2
Bracknell Mens 1st could not sustain their winning form of last week
against league leaders Marlow and went down to a disappointing 5-2 loss against
Gerards Cross who were several places below them in their MBBO 1st XI league
clash.
3rd November 2007
Bracknell Ladies 1st v Henley
Result 0 - 1
On the back of a good run of form, Bracknell went into the game against
Henley, who were lying one position behind them in the South Women's League Div
3a, with high expectations. Bracknell started well immediately putting Henley
under pressure. From the whistle it was clear that it was going to be a very
physical and hard fought game - the winning team would be the one who made the
most of their chances and set plays. Bracknell failed to convert a number of
early chances and were caught on the back foot when Henley picked up a ball
outside the circle, worked it in to a scoring position and scored in the top
right hand corner of the goal after 25 mins. Undeterred, the home side
continued to fight hard in all areas of the pitch but went into half time 1-0
down.
Coach, Lorna Goodwin, gave a strong half time talk and Bracknell came out
all guns blazing. Sustained pressure and great play from Rachel Ackroyd won
Bracknell their first penalty corner. Yellie Powley's initial strike deflected
off a defenders foot into the path of Dash Heaver who slotted the ball
accurately between keeper and left hand post. Bracknell were bitterly
disappointed when the goal was subsequently disallowed as the initial corner
injection was adjudged not to have travelled outside the circle before the
first shot went in. Despite this huge set back, Bracknell continued to
battle perhaps a little too hard, resulting in Pip Spibey picking up a green
card for a crunching late tackle followed by a yellow and 10 mins in the sin bin
for Rachel Ackroyd for a similar offence. With only 10 players on the pitch,
Bracknell soaked up the pressure, Ali Eatwell putting in a sterling performance
which earned her Player of the match . Despite Bracknell creating a few chances
of their own late in the game the score remained a disappointing 1-0 to Henley.
Bracknell Ladies 1st v Wycombe Rye 1st
Result 4 - 0
Having already played a number of the top sides in the South Womens League
Div 3A, Bracknell began the match in confident mood, lying in 4th place with
their opposition lower down the table.
The first 20 minutes saw the Newtowners in total command. Rachel Powell
and Yellie Powley controlled the middle with team mates Rachel Ackroyd and Dash
Heaver ensuring that Wycombe had no time on the ball when they eventually gained
possession. It was not long before Ackroyd opened the scoring, clipping in a
well struck corner from Yellie Powley. Only 3 mins later Captain Emma Cox
cleared the ball up the left wing to Dash Heaver, whose first time cross was
powered home by Lyndsey Seaton running in on the far post. Although Bracknell
continued to dominate the half they could not add to the score line and Wycombe
began to work themselves into the game.
The 2nd half began much as the first with 2 goals in 10 minutes! Newcomer
Steph Hendriksz made it 3-0 when Holly Bentley released an early ball to
Hendriksz who with sheer determination rode tackle after tackle and almost
walked the ball into the net. Hendriksz picked up her second goal when Ackroyd
gave a neat reverse stick pass to Powley, whose subsequent cross cicle pass
split the defence for an easy touch home. Undeterred Wycombe kept up the
pressure and were rewarded with a penalty stroke on 27 mins - But Jen Sawyer
saved to keep out her 2nd penalty of the season with ease. Man of the match this
week was well deserved by Libby Mound - who slotted into a number of positions
during the game with professional ease.
This confident performance moved Bracknell up 2 places into second behind
Teddington.
Bracknell Ladies 2's v Marlow 2's
Result 3 - 2
Bracknell,
feeling confident after a string of good games, went into this match knowing 3
points would move them deservedly closer to the top of the Trysports Div 2
table.
A complacent start put Bracknell under unnecessary pressure and despite the
unexpected end to end play for most of the first half, it was the under dogs,
Marlow, who were first to strike home. Bracknell missed opportunities and the
half time score remained 1-0.
Bracknell remained confident and started the second half strongly. They were
soon rewarded a series of short corners from which Katja Challen scored.
Marlow did not relent and they
retaliated 10 minutes later with another goal, unsighted by the Bracknell
Goalkeeper.
Bracknell, annoyed and disappointed, responded immediately from the push back
and within a minute were at the top of the circle where Jane Theodolou passed to
Kelly Lockyer who skilfully beat a few players to slip the ball successfully
past the keeper.
In the last 5 minutes a corner saw Tracy Castle pass
accurately to Sarah-Jane Grindley, who made no mistake when converting the pass
passed the keeper and ending the match Bracknell 3 Marlow 2 and have now moved
to 3rd in Trysports Div2.
Bracknell continued the game on top as a result of some excellent
defending. A special mention must go to Fiona Lewis who had a superb game.
20th October 2007
Bracknell Ladies 2's v Abingdon
Result - 3 - 2
Bracknell 2’s achieved a well-deserved 3-2 victory against Trysports div
2 top of the table side Abingdon. Starting off strongly, Abingdon managed to
score the first goal of the game, with Bracknell quickly equalising with a
spectacular dive from Tracy Castle, striking it into the right hand corner of
the goal, from a well executed short corner. Abingdon came back with a short
corner of their own, taking them to a 2-1 lead. Bracknell managed to bring the
score to a tie again with Sarah-Jane Grindley hitting a perfectly placed ball
up the wing to Katya Challen who took on the defence and the goalie, making it
2-2. Another brilliant attack from the right meant that Bracknell took a 3-2
lead when Kelly Lockyer showed her skills in the D, scoring a fantastic goal,
which the Abingdon defence could do nothing about. In the second half both
teams attacked strongly, Bracknell keeping the pressure on well with some good
chances including hitting the post, but no more goals were scored. Goalie
Grace Lawes deflected away every ball that came towards her, so Bracknell
retained their lead and came away triumphant with the 3-2 win.
Tracy Castle
scorer of first goal for Ladies 2 (and Ladies club captain)
13th Oct 2007
Bracknell Ladies 1’s v
West Hampstead
Result 1 - 1
Bracknell were in a confident mood after 2 league wins on the trot, but were
well aware that this next game was going to be a tough confrontation as West
Hampstead were lying in 2nd place in the South League Div 3A table.
Bracknell got off to a great start forcing West Hampstead into their own half
for the first 20 minutes of the game. Some excellent interplay between the
midfield and forwards eventually forced the West Hampstead defence to foul
Rachel Ackroyd as she was about to shoot. A Penalty Flick was awarded and coolly
slotted home by Rachel Powell. Bracknell went in at half time in the lead.
Rachel
slotting home the penalty flick
The second half saw Bracknell dip for 20 minutes and West Hampstead were able
to force a number of corners. The equaliser came eventually from a corner where
the Bracknell GK was impeded by an oncoming forward and was powerless to prevent
the shot going in. After that the play was very end to end with Bracknell unable
to take back the lead despite some skillful attacks by Dame of the game, Yellie
Powley. However Bracknell finished the game with a 1-1 draw which they should be
pleased with.
Bracknell Ladies 2s v Maidenhead
Result 2 - 2
Bracknell Ladies 2s went into this weeks game with confidence from last weeks
performance against top of the Trysports Div 2 table, Maidenhead. Bracknell
started the brighter team and played some neat one twos across the midfield,
unfortunately they were unable to capitilize on this and Maidenhead steadily
crept into the game. Maidenhead made the most of their chances early on and went
2 goals up in quick succession.
Bracknell re grouped and applied pressure in search of a goal; which came
shortly before half time. Katja Challen made a fantastic run up the wing and
crossed an inch perfect pass acrross the front of goal for Keelee Chalk to
strike past the keeper.
After an inspiring team talk at half time, Bracknell went out in search of a
deserved equaliser. Bracknell maintained most of the possession with great
movement between Kats Challen and Kelly Lockyer. Both Caroline Apsey and Hilary
Westwood worked hard to prevent Maidenhead breaking out of their half. Defenders
Kate Allan and Tracy Castle both played outstandingly to keep Maidenhead
strikers at bay.
As a result, Bracknell were rewarded for their efforts just before the final
whistle when Kelly Lockyer pounced on a bouncing ball just outside the D and
made a telling pass to Kats Challen who duly struck past the keeper to make the
score 2-2.
6th Oct 2007
Bracknell Ladies 1st v
Newbury and Thatcham 1st
Score 2 - 0
Bracknell followed on from a 2-0 win against Banbury last week in South
League Div 3A, by repeating the feat against Newbury on Saturday. Right from
the off it was obvious that the opposition were not as strong as Bracknell had
faced in the last two weeks, however this led to some complacency within the
team. Despite some poor play on a very bouncy pitch, Bracknell did manage to
win a number of short corners in the first half, but could not convert these
opportunities into goals. It wasn't until late in the first half when one of
these short corners produced the first goal of the game, with a lot of
persistence from Emma Cox in a goal mouth scramble finally slotting it home.
There were a number of other good chances created in open play, however
Bracknell were found wanting in front of goal, with countless shots being sent
wide.
Bracknell's lacklustre performance in the first half rightly led to a "rollocking"
from the coach at half time. This resulted in Bracknell raising their game,
with more opportunities being created, and more pressure being put on the
opposition led by "Dame of the game" Dash Heaver. However, Bracknell continued
to spurn good opportunities, with more shots off target. Another short corner
brought about the second goal of the game with a well rehearsed routine
resulting in a second goal for Bracknell, and for Emma Cox, this time with a
sweet strike of the ball. Despite the poor performance, Bracknell got the
right result, and look forward to picking up their game for next week.
Bracknell Ladies 2s v Milton Keynes 2as
score
2 - 1
Bracknell Ladies 2s carried on their success in the Trysports Div 2 league,
by winning their second game of the season against Milton Keynes 2as. Bracknell
applied early pressure and were rewarded with a number of short corners, which
they were unable to capitalise on. However, Katja Challen broke the deadlock mid
way through the first half with a neat sweep past the keeper, from a well worked
short Corner.
The visitors battled back after half time but failed to capitilize on their
possession. Bracknell defenders Liz Cushenan and Fiona Lewis fought hard to keep
Milton Keynes at bay. After soaking up pressure from the Visitors, Bracknell
increased the pace of the game and played some neat one twos, which resulted in
another short corner. As the ball ricocheted to the top of the D, Tracy Castle
hit a great strike in to Kelly Lockyer who deflected neatly past the Goal Keeper
to make the score 2-0. Milton Keynes responded late in the second half with a
break away from defence, passing the solid Bracknell defence to score a
consolation goal. Bracknell 2s, will travel to Maidenhead next Saturday in the
hope of continuing their good start to the season.
Bracknell Ladies 1st v Banbury 1st
2 - 0
After last weeks challenging introduction to the South League, Bracknell
started strongly against an experienced Banbury side. Persistent pressure and
excellent attacking play produced the home side's opening goal through Rachel
Ackroyd, whose shot went in from the tightest of angles. Bracknell kept their
1-0 advantage throughout the first half with solid tackling in the defence and
excellent saves from Keeper and "Man of the match"Jen Sawyer. New targets were
set for the 2nd half and \Bracknell responded with some slick passing down both
sides of the pitch. Dash Heaver and Rachel Ackroyd combined down the right but
it was Veteran striker Katja Challen who connected beautifully with Ackroyd's
cross to score a stunning goal in the 9th min of the 2nd half. Bracknell
continued the game on top, creating more attacking opportunities only to be
denied by the Banbury keeper. This weeks performance and renewed Bracknell's
confidence ahead of their meeting with Newbury and Thatcham next week.
Bracknell 2nd’s Vs Gerrards Cross
4-2
Bracknell 2nd’s came away with their first victory
of the season this weekend with a 4-2 win over Gerrards Cross.
Bracknell dominated the game from the start. A well worked pass from Keelee
Chalk resulted in the first goal of the game by Kelly Lockyer. Bracknell's
second goal came from Caroline Apsey whose first attempt on goal hit the post
but she followed it up to take the score to 2-0. Bracknell's 3rd goal
was generated by a determined run from the half way line by Jane Theodolou who
struck the ball into the D for a deflection off Kelly Lockyer's stick, making
the score line 3-0 for Bracknell. Gerrards Cross retaliated with a goal from a
short corner, making it 3-1. Bracknell's 4th goal came from a well
struck ball from Bianca Chalk which was seen into the back of the net by Kelly
Lockyer which secured a win for Bracknell and a well deserved hatrick for
Lockyer. Gerrards Cross made a determined start in the second half and Bracknell
conceeded a second goal; making the final score 4-2.
Date: 22nd Sept 2007
Teddington 6 Bracknell Ladies 1's
1
Bracknell's 1st game in South League Div 3A was as
tough as they
anticipated, with their opponents being Teddington who finished 2 nd in
the division
last season. Bracknell began positively but sustained an early blow within
5 minutes of the start when Debbie Jackson, Bracknell's
experienced centre back went off with an achilles injury.
Bracknell were under alot of pressure but managed to hold Teddington for
20 mins before they scored their 1st goal from a penalty
corner. Bracknell
continued to battle and the midfield,particularly Rachel Powell, fought to
initiate attacks but Bracknell did not capitalise on this and Teddington
breached the defence twice more
before half time despite one of their goals being struck from outside the
area and deflected over the GK by a Bracknell defender.
scorer Dash Heaver in
Ladies 1st v Teddington game: Picture by Ali Eatwell
During the 2nd half, Bracknell remained positive and continued to give
100% .
Jenny Sawyer, the Bracknell goalkeeper made numerous fantastic saves to
keep the score at 3-0 but with constant pressure from Teddington, they
won
a short corner and scored their 4th goal. The unrelenting attack from
Teddington gave the Bracknell defence no respite his led to Teddington
scoring
another 2 goals.
Bracknells 100% commitment paid off in the 69th minute when they got a
break
down the right hand side. Lyndsey Seaton drove the ball up the right wing
and passed it round the defender to Dash Heaver on the inside. A skillful
flick of the ball over the defenders stick by Heaver to Katya Challen
soon saw Bracknell in Teddingtonsdefending D where Challen passed back to
Heaver on the penalty spot,who struck the ball into the goal, giving
Bracknell a well deserved consolation goal!
A tough start to the season for Bracknell with the final score ending 6-1
to
Teddington!!
Date: 22nd Sept 2007
Bracknell Ladies 2nd
XI, v Sonning 3rd XI
Today
proved to be another warm September day but Bracknell started strongly
pressurising inthe Sonning half for the first ten minutes. Sonning came
back hard, but a stunning performance from Kate Allen,
Fiona Lewis,
Liz Cushenan and Jane Theodolou
in defence meant it was a long period of prolonged pressure before Sonning
capitalised and Bracknell went 0-1 down. From there, Bracknell re-grouped
well, and spent the last ten of the first half in the Sonning 22. Two
short corners later, and Bracknell were still a goal down into half time.
The second half painted a better
picture for Bracknell, with the team working together well. Some great
movement inside the Sonning D lead to a near miss for Caroline Apsey,
and yet more short corner opportunities. Sadly though, it was not to be
Bracknell’s day, as all these efforts went unrewarded. Overall, a solid
performance by Bracknell in Trysports Div 2 and a promising start for the
season ahead.
Date: 15th Sept 2007
Bracknell Ladies 1st XI 2 v 0
Spencer Wandsworth
Bracknell played their second game of the season and came out victorious
with a 2-0 win.
Bracknell applied pressure from the start and were duly rewarded with a
goal inside the first 5 minutes. It came about from some swiftly executed
passes down the right hand side between Lyndsey Seaton, Katja Challen
and Rachel Ackroyd with Katja Challen coolly slotting home the first goal.
After another 10 mins of solid Bracknell pressure, which resulted in no
goals, the visitors became complacement, lost shape, and allowed Spencer
Wandsworth back into the game. Fortunately some good saves by Jo
Whittaker and some relentless pressure by Dash Heaver and Libby Mound kept
the hosts at bay.
After a stiff team talk at half time from the newly appointed Coach,
Lorna Goodwin, Bracknell played with more passion in the second half. There
was more fluidity in the passing and consequently Bracknell were rewarded
with several corners which unfortunately were not converted. However,
Bracknell maintained their discipline and after a skilful drive down the
pitch by Holly Bentley, Lyndsey Seaton managed to deflect Bentley's pass
into the back of the goal. New players Pip Spibey, Suzy Hardingham and Toddy
Eatwell all proved their worth in the team.
A promising start to the season for Bracknell before their return to
the South Womens league in Div 3, which starts next week.
Date: 15th Sept 2007
Banbury 3rd Xl 1-1 Bracknell 2nd Xl
Newly promoted Bracknell set off to a cracking start in their first league
game of the season. Applying good pressure to the Banbury defence, Bracknell
were unfortunate not to go ahead after a well worked short corner saw Caroline
Apsey hit the net, only to be disallowed by the umpire.
Bracknell failed to capitalize on their possession and against the run of
play Banbury scored the first goal. However, Bracknell were not disheartened and
continued to keep the pressure on.
After a strong team talk at half time Bracknell came out with vigour and
scored within the first 5 minutes. With a great run from the defence, Jane
Martin pushed the ball into the danger area to allow Keelee Chalk to score the
equalising goal.
A good effort from Bracknell sustained their 1-1 draw.
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