Sofia Chase strikes for New Forest Hockey Club seconds

Hants Women’s Division 3: Trojans IV 0-1 New Forest II

NEW FOREST ladies second team enjoyed a solid 1-0 win against Trojans IV to maintain third place in Hants Division 3.

Despite the early start at Trojans, Forest II were quickly into their stride looking to strike early.

Trojans were well organised and moved the ball well. Forest’s midfield of A. Shephard, Jaz Poulter and Ruby Noble worked hard to keep the pressure on, allowing frontrunners Kathy Hall and Sofia Chase to drive hard at the Trojans’ defence and create chances.

Forest came close from open play and short corners before an individual effort from Chase opened the scoring. Using her tremendous pace Chase drove through before drawing the keeper and sliding the ball into the corner.

With Becks Robertshaw selflessly drawing players in allowing others to work off her, Forest were able to control the game.

Forest were solid in defence, Jess Goodfellow, Sandy Smith, George Havers and Caroline Noble sweeping up any Trojans attacks so well that keeper Lyndsay Hoyle was largely a spectator.

The second half saw Trojans look to take the initiative, but Forest held firm whilst creating the best chances with both Hall and Robertshaw going close.

A one goal lead is always a concern, but Player of the Match Maslen had a storming second half in defence, winning tackles and driving forward, and the Forest goal was never really threatened.

New Forest II: L. Hoyle, G. Havers, C. Noble, S. Smith, A. Shephard, R. Noble, J. Poulter, S. Chase, B. Robertshaw, K. Hall, J. Goodfellow, P. Maslen.