Oxford Hawks Women’s 1’s vs Loughborough University 2s – 28.09.24

Hawks welcomed a familiar face as Loughborough University 2s brought with them, ladies 1s alumni Jemma Crocker for a club ‘Super  Saturday’. Hawks started brightly in the first quarter finding space from slick transfers around the back from Mima, Cav and Longy. However, just as they found their rhythm Loughborough broke away, winning a short corner and drag flicking in the opener. Undeterred, Hawks responded swiftly continuing their passing and a lovely through-ball from Emma found midfielders Sally and Megan to assist the forward line, with Lexie (or Claire) scoring the equaliser.

Both teams came out fighting in the second quarter but Hawks took the upper hand from Lucy piling on the pressure in the press leading to a high turnover helping Hawks win and convert their short corner with an excellent Bex strike. Loughborough rallied converting two short corners in quick succession leaving Hawks a little deflated going in to the half time break 3-2 down.

The third quarter started much as how the second had ended with an end to end frenetic pace that only the sound of a boxing ring bell might have halted. It was to be a Hawks yellow card which Loughborough capitalised on, and helped them to find the free player in the D twice to score their fourth and fifth goals and convert another short corner.

In the final quarter, Hawks conceded a flick which was duly dispatched by Loughborough making it 7-2. Hawks rallied with MoM Kate making some unbelievable saves and stopping the goal flurry. Momentum shifted, and Hawks rediscovered their flowing hockey from the first quarter. Superb link up play from Megan and Hibby the ball fell to Kimmy for Hawks third goal. With renewed hope, Hawks pressed again, and a Smithers deflection brought them back into the game. Odders, determined to get a quick restart, knew she must dash to the centre with the ball, but instead ended up with a DoD-worthy altercation with the opposition.

As the time wound down, Hawks continued to pile on the pressure but ultimately found themselves on the end of a thrilling, yet disappointing 7-4 scoreline. Despite the loss, Hawks showed great fight, and will look forward to taking this energy into next week’s game.