Plym Valley ladies third 2
Okehampton ladies seconds 1
THIS difficult away challenge inspired the younger, less experienced Oke team to play some of their best hockey of the season.
In the first half the teams were evenly matched with Oke forwards Eve Colton and Grace Thorp forcing the Plym defence to tackle resolutely. Sophie Cunnington picked up any loose ball outside the Plym circle to shoot at goal at any opportunity forcing the keeper to make some good saves.
Just before half time Oke conceded a goal when Plym attacked in numbers and a through ball found an unmarked player who slotted the ball into the net.
The second half saw the visitors determined to score. Brieze Read and Hannah Whiteley worked well together on the right passing the ball slickly and outwitting the Plym players. They provided forward Amanda Sim with a direct pass; Sim controlled the ball, dodged a Plym defender and cooly won a one-on-one contest with the goalie to equal the score.
Plym stepped up their game attacking down both flanks forcing Sophie Whiteley to shadow the fast Plym forwards preventing them getting into the Oke circle.
Full back Katie Graves made some decisive tackles to stop Plym shooting at the goal, with Oke keeper Carol Taylor making a couple of dramatic saves. Unfortunately the continuous Plym pressure led to the winning goal for the home team.
Oke player of the match was awarded to Millie Westwood.