BACK TO WINNING WAYS AFTER A TEENY BLIP!

After the poor start to 2008 with a dismal performance against Urmston the previous week (possibly down to the turkey sandwiches over the Christmas period – sorry to all you Veggies), this match against Bolton 2’s was going to be tough but Stockport put in a performance which was of a different class and simply brilliant! The match couldn’t have started any better with Stockport quickly out of the starting blocks and Lisa Hornbury scoring within the first two minutes.
 
Stockport capitalised on Bolton’s slow start and doubled their lead less than two minutes later with Lisa on target again with an unstoppable shot from the top of the circle, thanks to one touch hockey starting right at the back with a hit from right back Gemma Cook.  This took the score to two-nil and Stockport looked a completely different side than their last outing.  The passing was smooth and direct, with all players wanting the ball and spreading the play in a logical fashion and one which was causing Bolton problems!  Charlie ‘Bean’ Simms was playing well controlled hockey and linked up well with forwards Amy Nicklin, Jenny Plant and Jennie Worth.
 
Chloe and Lucy were controlling the midfield and winning many of the tackles to get possession back in Stockport hands.  The team was playing disciplined hockey and it wasn’t long before they were three goals ahead, with Jennie Worth keeping her fantastic scoring record with a strong shot into the bottom right corner.  Stockport were cruising to victory and took a three goal to nil lead into half time.
 
The expectation of a Bolton comeback was very much in the mind when the second half commenced but with Louise Preston and Gemma putting in very credible performances in defence, it was always going to be difficult for Bolton to get back into the game.  They did however get a consolation goal but when Lisa H got her hat-trick thanks to excellent build up play in the midfield from Dunners, Nicola A and Claire Atherton, the match was well beyond Bolton’s reach and Stockport won the match 4-1.
 
The team should be proud of their play as it was skilled, controlled, disciplined and of an extremely high standard.  Well done girls, a most credible performance and one which puts us top of the league.
 
POM – Lisa Hornbury