Blackheath vs Marden – a matchup that promised excitement and certainly delivered. A game of goals, grit, and just a little bit of heartbreak at the final whistle.

The home side started sluggishly, with a few questionable decisions at the back. Stan confidently handled some bold passes around the defense, while Kyveli temporarily lost track of the goal causing a few heart rates to flutter. Luckily, Amelie was on hand to clear up the chaos and keep the scoreboard level.

Once Blackheath settled into their rhythm, the attacking play came to life. Amelia led the charge up front, causing headaches for the Marden defense. A well-placed ball from Stan and finely executed short corner, and Vicky B, continuing her fine goal-scoring form, smashed it home to give the Reds a 1-0 lead.

Marden, however, were not to be underestimated. Their solid structure and slick midfield play kept Blackheath on their toes. Despite this, an aggressive defensive display and some cracking saves from Kyveli ensured the lead held until halftime.

The second half saw both teams determined to take all three points. Blackheath came out firing, with Sally and Vicky P holding the midfield well, cutting out Marden’s attacks. But hockey is a game of fine margins, and an unfortunate missed trap (and a rather invisible foul) gifted Marden a shooting opportunity from the top of the D. One clinical strike later, and it was 1-1.

Not ones to sit back, Blackheath responded with flair. Carlotta’s pace was electric, while Wanni was a force down the right. A slick passing move between Laura, Amelia, and Vicky P sliced through Marden’s defense, resulting in a well-worked goal. 2-1. Game on.

But Marden weren’t done. Exploiting the baseline, they fired a quick ball into the D, where a deflection took it past the defense and into the net. 2-2. The battle continued.

As the clock ticked down, Blackheath pushed for a winner. Evie stormed down the right, whipping a perfectly timed cross into the D. A Marden foot in the mix gave Vicky B the chance to slot it home, sending the team into celebration—only for the umpire to disallow it seconds before the final whistle. Heartbreak.

Despite the late drama, a point was earned, and Blackheath will take confidence from a dominant performance. A great team effort, and onto the next!

POM: Banksy – rock-solid in defense.

DOD: Vicky – an unfortunate deflection and a moment of indiscretion (aka a green card).