Ladies 1st vs Oxford Hawks

The match against Oxford Hawks, was possibly one of Bath Buccaneer's biggest matches of the season, with the opposition lying just two points behind. This encounter could have been potentially nerve-inducing, but TBB started the first quarter in fine form. The adapted press quickly shut down Oxford's attacking threats, allowing TBB to dominate with most of the possession in the Oxford half. In possession, TBB were calm using the width and generally avoiding going into contact. However, we were unable to capitalise on this and the score remained at 0-0 when quarter time arrived. Oxford Hawks started to get back into the game in the second quarter but still no team could break the deadlock.

That was until a surprise goal from Issy Chaudhry, with an upright reverse from the left shoulder of the D. The ball trickled past at a ridiculously slow pace past the bemused Oxford Hawks’ defence and keeper. Celebrations erupted as the ball hit the right sideboard. Even though the goal was of an unusual nature it was a fine reward for Issy Chaudhry’s relentless carrying and tenacity in the press. This goal was followed up a goalmouth scramble in the ugly zone with the ball eventually being tipped in by Annie Wilson. With a two goal advantage a crucial win looked to be in sight. However, this was not to be with Oxford Hawks gaining momentum . Their account opened with a penalty corner goal in the fourth quarter. TBB tried their best to hold firm but this was not enough as a second penalty corner followed. Here they injected to the second castle, slipped it to the left and a drag flick levelled the scores.

2-2 was possibly not the score TBB wanted. However, it was an excellent performance, which demonstrated why our brand of hockey is some of the best in the league. At the end of the day TBB still top the table, two points clear of our nearest competitors.