Broxbourne 2 Crostyx 0

Sunday was the first of a number of re-arranged league fixtures for Crostyx ladies 1st XI, away to middle of the table Broxbourne. Playing one of their games in hand it was important that Crostyx took maximum points from the fixture.

Unfortunately Broxbourne had other ideas as the home side came out hard from the start. They proved to be one of the more physical sides in the league and Crostyx struggled to match them for strength.

The first 15 minutes of the game were fairly evenly matched, although Broxbourne were quick to pounce on any loose balls and seemed slightly more determined than the visitors. In fairness to Crostyx there were a few dubious challenges that might ordinarily have been blown up as stick tackles but the umpires on the day thought otherwise.

A series of such challenges and lucky deflections in the Crostyx 25 and ultimately into the D resulted in a penalty stroke being awarded to the home side. Despite Rebecca Clark, the Crostyx keeper and player of the match, getting a touch to the flick Broxbourne took the lead.

Although aggrieved at the decision Crostyx restarted the game strongly putting the home side under pressure and winning a number of short corners. Unfortunately they were unable to convert and to add insult to injury Broxbourne then broke quickly to score a second goal.

2-0 down at half time, things were not going according to plan. Crostyx battled hard throughout the 2nd half, creating chances but also forced to defend some quick breaks from the home side.

The Crostyx defense held strong with some important tackles from Kate Henley and Vicki Berrill, but at the other end the attack could not manage to convert their chances. Thea Hitchcock came close from short range but the Broxbourne defender did just enough to scuff the ball wide.

The game finished 2-0, a disappointing result for an ever determined Crostyx side who were simply outplayed on the day. Hopefully this result will spark a more aggressive display next Saturday when they travel to Letchworth.