Leeds University 0 Ben Rhydding Ladies 2nds 1

Ben Rhydding Ladies Hockey Club were stunned last week with the tragic and sudden passing of Dot Mainwaring, club stalwart for many years and a recent captain of Ben Rhydding Seconds.

Her clubmates dedicated this match to their friend and fellow player and were determined to put in a fitting performance against the league leaders.

Leeds University started in typical fashion, passing the ball around confidently and piling the pressure on the Rhydding defence.

Their visitors in turn adapted to the task with discipline and commitment, soaking up the pressure and taking the opportunity for the breakaway when appropriate.

From one such move, a quick turnaround from defence to attack led to Melissa Reynard picking up the ball in midfield and firing a neat through ball to young Rachel Till, who danced past two defenders before wrong-footing the stranded ’keeper with a well-taken reverse stick sweep from the edge of the area.

Leeds University were shocked to find themselves on the back foot, and piled forward again, asking questions of the Rhydding defence but finding no way through.

Raine Ellis was immense at sweeper, stepping in with crucial tackles when required, thoughtful distribution relieving the pressure. Jackie Laycock, Michelle Eldridge and Emma Manchester marshalled the flanks with authority, using their wealth of experience to thwart the attacking forays of their youthful opponents.

Meanwhile the midfield trio of Anne Bright, Julie Guest and Melanie Scott worked tirelessly, disciplined marking in defence keeping the University at bay, while providing outlets for the defensive unit to create breakaway opportunities.

Despite not enjoying the possession they have been accustomed to in recent fixtures, Ben Rhydding’s forwards maintained their high work-rate, closing down the University defence and creating space for attack.

Sarah Whitehead and Ellie Creed both went close with opportunities late in the first half as Leeds’ defence showed its vulnerability on the break.

Into the second half and the pattern of play remained much the same, Leeds University enjoying the majority of possession without managing to convert this into clear-cut opportunities. Keeper Claire Britcliffe dealt capably with clearances when called upon, including a couple of smart reflex saves to keep her side’s slender lead.

As the game wore on, the students grew increasingly frustrated, failing to find a way through a defensive wall which they struggled to break down.

Ben Rhydding still enjoyed plenty of forays into their opponents’ area, Till rising to the challenge with some tireless running, chasing down the Leeds defence and causing all sorts of havoc.

She was unlucky not to seal the game with a rising shot parried wide by the ’keeper after a superb move from defence to attack saw Leeds stranded with too many players committed in the wrong half of the pitch. Despite the students’ best efforts, Ben Rhyd-ding held on to a hard-earned victory, discipline and commitment earning them deserved rewards. Dot would have been proud.