Beaten by Bradford

We always look forward to the Bradford games with a sense of anticipation. They are usually pretty level with us and we always have a close, hard fought game. Neither of us could claim that we’ve had more wins over the other.

So we met on the sideline at Bradford confident that we were in for a good match and knowing that it was possible to get the points here. Well, most of us did, Helen turned up white as a sheet and looking like death. She was not a well girl.

We had 15! Again! This is unheard of. It so good to be getting lots of commitment every week and it makes helping to captain with Vicky and Helen so much easier. Thanks everyone for committing.

The game started and it was clear quickly that Bradford had acquired some handy new players from recently folded Bradford Uni. We recognised their skill and techniques from previous games. This, added to Bradford's already strong defence and attack meant they have become a formidable side.

We were playing well though, keeping Bradford at bay, closing down their attacks, marking out key players and making attacks of our own. We had some chances in the first half, but in the end it was Bradford who broke through, an amazing lifted shot went out of Helen’s reach. 1-0 to Bradford.

Not to be defeated, we fought back immediately, knowing that we’ve broken down the Bradford defence before and we could do it again. However, half time came and we were still 1-0 down.

The second half started and we were keen to get things back on a level playing field. We went out to attack, and our forwards were making great gains using the space up front. Unfortunately it was difficult to get the midfield support as Bradford's strong attacks meant they were doing lots of defending. It was one Bradford short corner that they were able to break through our defence again 2-0 to Bradford.

As the match went on, Braford started to take advantage of some of the gaps in our play and were getting through to some of their key players. Our defence was strong and stopping attacks again and again, but as we tried to attack harder going for some goals, eventually things started to slip through. In the last 10 minutes, Bradford scored another 3 times, taking the final score to 5-0. This was not a fair representation of the game. We played well throughout and shouldn’t let the final score get us down. Bradford have put together a great side this year and currently sit top of the league.

The MOM went to Helen, who played brilliantly despite being really ill. We hope you get better soon! By soon we obviously mean Saturday!

Next Week: Leeds Uni at Home

#matchreport #hockey #lost #goalie #batley #batleyladieshc