UPTON LADIES HOCKEY CLUB 1,

KIDDERMINSTER 0

UPTON played their first home league match of the season in glorious sunshine at Malvern Girls College.

Upton started the game with the luxury of a sub in the wings if necessary.

The midfield of Rachel Gibbs, Trudy Warner and Laura Smith quickly took control of the game. Kidderminster however were quick to make the tackles giving Upton little time on the ball.

Despite playing some attractive hockey Kidderminster only forced one save from keeper Sue Murphy before half time. The defence of Sylvia Gillham, Vicki Lannie and Jacky Farley, as ever, repelling all attackers.

With captain Jenny Parkes coming on as a replacement keeper in the second half she also only had one save to make.

Some quick play up the pitch from Rachel Barber found Charlotte Underwood in lots of space on the right wing. Aided by some man to man marking from Bev Ingram, Charlotte found the space required and fired home her shot to give Upton the win they deserved.

With some fine interplay with Rachel Barber, Vanessa Dawe and Laura Smith, ably assisted by Rachel Gibbs Upton were unlucky not to score again.

Player of the match was Charlotte Underwood.

Thanks to umpire Jeff Robinson.