Match Report – 18/03/2023: Leatherhead Ladies I – 3 Addiscombe - 0
South East Region: Oaks League – Division 2

Ladies Secure Victory in Penultimate Game of the Season

Leatherhead Ladies 1st XI managed to convert possession into goals to secure a comfortable win in last Saturday’s home fixture against Addiscombe, improving on a frustrating draw when the two sides met earlier in the season.

The hosts were placed on the back-foot in the opening minutes with Addiscombe earning two early penalty corners. Rising to the task, Leatherhead’s back line cleared the danger and set the team on the attack. Pushing forward, Leatherhead moved the ball around efficiently and started to create chances. After 12 minutes their pressure was rewarded with a penalty corner awarded. Receiving at the top of the D, Megan Smith made a clean stop and followed through with a powerful strike that rattled the backboard, and put Leatherhead 1-0 up.

Leatherhead continued their high press giving Addiscombe little time on the ball. Showing strength and slick passing throughout the team, Leatherhead dominated possession as they sought to extend their lead but were frustrated by their final touch and the opposition keeper. Three minutes before the break their persistence paid off. Moving the ball swiftly between them, Charlotte Duncan and Heather Kincaid worked the ball up the pitch to Steph Woodman at the edge of the D. Woodman released a timely pass to split the defence and set Tilly Riiser up in the centre of the D. Riiser showed composure and a clinical finish to slot the ball beyond the keeper’s reach. Leatherhead remained focussed to close out the half and go into the break with a 2-0 lead.

Starting the second half where they left off, Leatherhead took the game to Addiscombe as they worked to put the result beyond doubt. With fluid movement on and off the ball, the hosts crafted striking opportunities but were defied by their own last touch and a resilient defence. After nine minutes the hosts made the telling breakthrough to notch up their third goal. Suz Rigby carried the ball down the right wing before releasing a cross into the danger area. Woodman connected and with a deft touch struck the ball into the far corner of the goal.

At 3-0 up, Leatherhead looked to add to their tally. Addiscombe however were not giving up and blocked Leatherhead’s advances and with their swift counter-attacks looked to test the hosts. In the closing moments, Leatherhead were forced to defend deeply and managed to lock out Addiscombe to maintain a clean sheet. At the final whistle, Leatherhead bagged the maximum league points to maintain their mid-table position. Having secured their place in the division for next season Leatherhead finish their campaign next week as they travel to top of the table Chertsey.

New players are welcome at Leatherhead Hockey Club. Whilst we take a break from the winter league/training during May-August, there is some summer hockey activity with monthly club open evenings and summer friendly leagues. If you’re interested in playing hockey or want to find out more, please visit our website at www.leatherheadhockeyclub.co.uk or get in touch via info@leatherheadhockeyclub.co.uk