Ladies 3rd XI Vs Ashmoor 2

A late afternoon pushback away at Totnes meant Okehampton travelled with some changes to their usual squad, all of whom rose to the occasion magnificently.

Sophie Mugliston, playing in an unfamiliar position as sweeping back, confidently organised the defence and Izzy Rowlands doggedly fought for the ball up front.  It was Izzy’s persistence that led to the first goal, smartly taken by Louise Watts, after slick team passing opened up the Ashmoor defence.  Okehampton’s good work was undone a short while later when the home side equalized.  Okehampton soon went ahead again when Sarah Marvin’s shot on goal from the edge of the circle caught the Ashmoor defence napping.  The visitors continued to press but left themselves open at times, leaving Carol Newman in goal to make a number of valiant saves at the other end.  Nevertheless, Okehampton went in at half-time with a deserved 2-1 lead.

Ashmoor leapt out of the posts for the second half and soon levelled the score.  For a while, Okehampton wobbled and backs, Lois Rowlands and Jennie Humphry, made some crucial tackles and interceptions to keep the opposing side at bay and Carol Taylor had an authoritative game at centre back.  Okehampton began to regain control. with player of the match, Maddie Davidson, picking up the ball and working her way past the Ashmoor midfield to set up the attack. 

Okehampton always looked more comfortable going forwards and earned themselves a flurry of short corners.  Eventually the pressure paid off and good team interplay set up the opportunity for Eleanor Marvin to score the all important third goal which she did with precision.

The win was secured when a stunning strike by Sophie Tripp saw the ball fly into the top corner of the net in the last moments of the game.

Next week, Okehampton Ladies 3rds are at home to Kingsbridge & Salcombe 2nds.