By Kevin Boniface, Head of Hockey

Bedales got off to a strong start, dominating possession and transitioning well from defence to midfield. There were numerous passages of six or seven plus pass combinations, with the Bedales players receiving with confidence and passing with high ball pace and early release.

Despite a domination in possession, Bedales offered limited attacking threat and were restricted to an outstanding individual break from the halfway line from Mabel Watson. Later in the half, Mabel was unlucky with an early shot from the top of the circle, which struck the post. St John’s, on the other hand, were more physical and direct, putting the Bedales defence under pressure. However, Block 3 defenders, Issy Robinson and Greta Stillwell were more than up to the task, not only intercepting and tackling well but combining this with good distribution.

The second half saw an increase in attacking intent from Bedales, most notably down the right hand channel, with Nell Freeborough producing some driving runs in to the circle. However, the quality in the final third could not be found, and the game finished 0-0.

A genuinely good performance from the Bedales side; despite falling foul of ‘possession without penetration’. A special mention must go to Esther Stewart, who was exemplary in her centre half role.