Kettering 1-3 Oundle

KETTERING LADIES 3RD TEAM v OUNDLE 1st TEAM (4th November 2017)

Oundle opened strongly and looked dangerous in attack but initially could find no way through the solid and well-disciplined Kettering defence with Sophie Guyett and Laura Newlyn more than a match for the Oundle forwards. The odd ball that did find its way into the “D” was ably dealt with by Kate Metcalfe in goal and Beth Hardy was on hand to make her usual decisive and well placed clearances to her midfield.

Clearances from defence were well picked up by our midfield as they made every effort to meet the ball. Some fine interceptions and forward drives from Imogen Smith created openings for her team mates and Kettering were very unlucky not to get onto the end of some telling crosses into the “D” with Sophie Richardson, and Neola Bush both going close.

Unfortunately Kettering relaxed somewhat as the half progressed and found themselves second to the ball on a number of occasions and Oundle took full advantage. With just five minutes to go in the first half Kettering’s loss of concentration and drive led to a poorly defended shot on goal which unfortunately managed to wrong foot the keeper. Despite this Kettering felt they had had at least equal possession throughout the first half and were unbelievably disappointed to enter the break one goal down.

A good team talk at half time seemed to energise Kettering. Julia Telford continued to control the mid field and her distribution was excellent allowing Kettering to keep possession. Sophie Richardson and Imogen Smith worked tirelessly to create openings for their forwards and Neola Bush was outstanding down the left, her speed and skill enabling her to pass numerous defenders. Her crosses into the “D” created problems for the Oundle defence and Sandra Mandziuk went agonisingly close to levelling the score.

Oundle were continually on the defensive and all the pressure eventually paid off when Kettering were awarded a stroke after the ball was stopped on the line by a defenders foot. Julia Telford stepped up and made no mistake as she slotted the ball passed the keeper to level the score.

Oundle upped their game and as the half progressed Kettering tired and were often caught on the break. On one such occasion Oundle broke through the defence and fired home goal number two. Kettering changed tactics and pushed more players forward but despite hard work from Eleanor Izzard and Natalie Irons Kettering could not find a way through the solid Oundle defence. With Kettering pushing forward for the equaliser they were more vulnerable at the back and Oundle put the game beyond doubt when they scored their third and final goal.

Team

Kate Metcalfe, Beth Hardy, Jan Randle, Sophie Guyett,
Laura Newlyn (captain), Julia Telford, Natalie Irons,
Sandra Mandziuk, Imogen Smith, Sophie Richardson, Neola Bush Eleanor Izzard