Ladies 1st XI vs Burnt Ash

College Meadows, Burnt Ash and Black Clouds.

It was always going to be a tight and difficult game against a similar side. Both teams going into game 6 with a point to prove, a division leadership to be claimed and local bragging rights.

It was the away team that had started the brighter and had their forward not stumbled onto the ball they could have taken an early lead. The home team, however, was jittery. This panicked theme continued deep into the half and Burnt Ash sensed an opportunity when the entire right side of the pitch froze. Was there to be a rescue whistle blow from a supportive umpire? No, no infringement - no harm no foul - and Burnt Ash seized the opportunity pouncing on the ball and neatly tucking it away for a 1-0 lead. Blackheath rallied on occasion and several strong runs by Biggs threatened to provide Blackheath a route back into the game.

The clouds rolled on, the rain began to fall and so did the structure of the Blackheath team. Half time came and went, but the malaise continued to infect each and every player. Intensity became personalised and individual efforts tried to salvage a less than satisfactory performance. That is until minute sixty eight.......!

As Pitt cut through the Burnt Ash midfield the umpires signaled for two minutes remaining.... A glance up and Pitt sees Stevenson drifting right and then inward. With a firm push Pitt cuts the Burnt Ash, now flat, defense. It leaves Stevenson with an opportunity to take the ball over the twenty three and a one v one with the keeper. Stevenson hurtles into the D and places the ball at the far post with a thundering hit much to the delight and relief of her team mates and coach.

That's how it ended, a point to prove and a point shared. Both teams will be looking to put in better performances next week. As three points separate first from eighth this league is wide open and Blackheath are neatly nestled near the top of the table, second only by goal difference.