Luton Town Ladies 1st XI v Bedford 3rd XI

Saturday’s match against Bedford is not one that will go down as a classic, however a win is a win and the visitors, Luton, were more than happy to end up 2-0 winners in what is always a difficult fixture away from home.

After a slow start Luton gradually picked up the pace as they became increasingly accustomed to the somewhat bumpy playing surface. It was not long before Luton went ahead after a free hit was awarded outside the circle. The home umpire had a particularly strange interpretation of the rules and despite players from both sides suggesting that he should perhaps consult his rule book, play continued in the fashion that he insisted was correct. Unfortunately for Bedford, after a goal mouth scramble from the resultant cross, Suzanne Starkey calmly picked her slot and lifted the ball past the Bedford defenders. Bedford defended strongly with great determination throughout the match, but they simply were not a match for the Luton attack and it was with the run of play that Luiza Uziello slotted home Luton’s second and what would prove to be decisive goal. 2-0 half time.

Bedford did have a couple of chances during the game, but it is fair to say that Luton had the vast majority of possession and really should have extended their lead in the second half. Luton’s efforts were not made any easier when key midfielder Rochelle Lewsey turned her ankle on a defender’s stick and had to leave the pitch. After a brief respite the unfortunate youngster returned only to be hit on the hand by the ball, causing her further injury.

Competition for this week’s mare of the match award was strong and it was unsurprising that, when all votes were in and counted, there was no overall winner with both Charlottes sharing the award. Charlotte M converted the hockey match into a spot the difference competition, being the only player not to spot that she was the difference, as she came on to start the game wearing her immaculate red kit, when, unfortunately for her, the rest of the team were all in white! Charlotte Dunham meanwhile became slightly disorientated and for some reason known only to herself ran straight off the pitch – with the ball! Ella Dagnall, on the other hand excelled in defence and was awarded the player of the match award.

The team will need to move up into 5th gear when they face Saffron Walden in next week’s top of the table clash.