THE Okehampton ladies’ thirds travelled to Totnes on Saturday to play second place Dart in the league and and anticipated a competitive game.

The visitors were determined to play forward, attacking hockey and started in great style with central player Viv Weather-ington spreading the ball around the pitch with wing halves Izzy Rowlands and Eleanor Marvin picking up the ball and using their speed and skill to push the play into the Dart half.

Dart were quick to intercept any loose balls and, once they gained possession, pushed the ball accurately and with pace forcing Oke to defend. Dart’s sharp play initially surprised the Oke defence resulting in the home side taking the lead.

Oke reacted well with defenders Lois Rowlands and Lisa May stepping up to cut out the Dart attacking passes while centre half Sarah Marvin used her speed and persistence to pressurise the Dart central attackers. Both teams’ fitness was tested in ‘end to end’ hockey resulting in Oke being unfortunate to concede another goal just before half time.

Dart stepped up their game after the half time break but a clearance from Lois Rowlands off the goal line and some heroic saves from the Oke keeper Ella Kaye kept the game alive.

Oke’s passing and moving off the ball improved as the game progressed and their first goal came when Joey Drake found herself in space to receive the ball in the Dart circle. She then coolly cracked the ball past the Dart keeper.

Dart retaliated and within a couple of minutes had moved the ball swiftly down the pitch and added to their score line.

Undeterred Oke were still looking to attack at every opportunity with Oke player of the match Annie Strawbridge at left wing/half winning the ball deep in the Oke half, then using her stick skills and blistering speed to outwit the Dart defenders. She found herself in space in the Dart circle and a swift shot on goal left the Dart goalie wrong footed and gave Oke a well deserved goal.

The game continued at a fast pace and Dart were fortunate to score a final goal just before the final whistle.