This week back to the “Beach” a very sandy pitch, but not next to the sea to play Southend and Benfleet joint leaders at the top of the division.

It was always going to be a tough match as our opposition had won all by one match, which they had drawn. They immediately threw us a curveball by not having a goalkeeper or kicking back, but just 11 young players on the pitch.

With the potential of winning a Christmas selection box, Haribos or Tangfastics for scoring, our strategy was to attack and take advantage of the open goal. However, with the strength of their midfield and forward line and always having a spare unmarked player, we ended up valiantly defending our goal and were 3-0 down at half time.

After an enthusiastic team talk by Captain Suzanne BD and a reminder of the tempting goodies on offer for the goal scorers, the L7s went out with renewed cheer. With Danielle lingering high, and big hitter Karen on the pitch we looked at stretching and the S&B team.  The strategy was working with end to end play, unfortunately another goal from our opposition, but then our efforts were awarded with a penalty corner.  Injection from Suzanne BD and hit in from Karen to be deflected by the goalkeeper and picked up by Gillian Justier and a much-deserved goal to Chelmsford L7s. Final score was 4-1 to S&B, but much heart was taken from our performance that we were beginning to work as a team and we could score goal!

Player of the Match Gillian Justier. Well done to Hilde Dahmer for playing her first match for the L7s.  Big shout outs for the whole team for just sticking with it and trying their best!

A Christmas break and then ready for our January matches and looking forward to playing at home!

The Ladies 7s Player of the month proud to be sponsored by Purcell Locksmiths.