‘BE 3s, newly risen to the giddy heights of a division not lacking in clubs with killer instincts, rehearsed routines and start-to-finish fitness but also blessed with a stream of never-ending subs.’ This was how the report started last weekend, and it remains pertinent to BE's story, because they were playing a team that has become accustomed to being two divisions higher. But BEs rose to this tough challenge, and Maidstone did not disappoint. They used relentless pressure, set moves and fresh legs. BEs marked tightly, tried to keep possession and defended all in an instant. The game became defensive, with only a few incursions into Maidstone’s goal area. But BEs made Maidstone work hard for the win. Caitlin was instrumental in keeping the defence tight and informed whilst repelling many shots on goal. Rachael won so much ball against terrific attackers. Emily surprised everyone by passing the oppo with a new stick move; Heidi sprinted for a one-on-one with the goalie that flummoxed their defence; BEs even back-passed on occasion because they were experiencing a press that made it their saviour. They kept Maidstone thinking and their coach shouting.

Caitlin and Heidi were voted Players of the Match for their impactful presence. Gina was Wally of the Match for ‘admin errors’, shall we say.

Final Score: Blackheath 0-7.