Stratford 2nd XI v

Warwick University

Stratford showed a marked improvement on previous weeks with a determined performance in midfield and defence during a goal-less first half.

With Carina Taylor and Sally Willes providing a platform to launch attacks out of defence, Hillary Finnis on the right wing was able to create scoring chances for Andy Nicholls, Yvonne Caswell and Kate Kibblewhite, which were not converted.

Warwick University had two skilful midfield players of their own and were dangerous on the counterattack calling upon the experience of Michelle Dalley in goal and Lynn Helliker at sweeper to rally a sometimes hard-pressed defence.

The second half saw the visitors take an early two goal lead, but a fine move through the middle of the Warwick defence set up Carinna Taylor to score from the reverse stick side to set up a potential Stratford revival.

Warwick increasing the pace of their game, were able to deny space to Stratford and to contain them for long spells in their own half. Stratford committed themselves too early to tackles or stood off their opponents and Warwick's third goal effectively ended any hopes of a Stratford come-back.

Stratford showed in the first half that they have the ability to compete at this level, but perhaps the team's rhythm and balance of play was affected by the substitutions.