ON A crisp and sunny morning, Minehead Hockey Club Ladies produced an exciting display of hockey to secure a 4-2 win in their home match against their Devon rivals Honiton Hornets.

The game got off to a fast start, with Minehead showing their intent early on. After sustained pressure, the opening goal arrived in the 19th minute - thanks to some excellent teamwork down the left side. Zoey and Saphie combined for a clever one-two, with Zoey finishing on the run to slot the ball past the Hornets’ keeper and into an empty net.

However, Honiton quickly responded and drew level in the 28th minute with a well-executed attack of their own, leaving the score finely balanced at 1-1 heading into the latter stages of the first half with not a lot to choose between the sides at this stage..

But Minehead were not done yet. Some exceptional play through their midfield saw Fenella, Gemma, and Amy control the tempo of the match, allowing Minehead to break at key moments. Just before the half time whistle, they regained the lead with a clinical finish from Amy, who slotted home a short corner strike to make it 2-1 to the home side at the interval.

The Hornets came out fighting in the second half, putting constant pressure on Minehead keeper Jan who made some cracking saves to prevent the opposition from drawing level. Their pressure and resilience was rewarded with another line break and a goal 20 minutes into the second half.

However, Minehead were not going down without a fight and their determination shone through. The hosts regained the lead in the 52nd minute as Amy blasted another strike past the keeper, to put Minehead 3-2 ahead..

With time running out, Minehead pressed for a crucial insurance goal, and their efforts paid off late in the game. After a flurry of action in the attacking circle, Hannah Sparks’ strike was followed up by a close-range attempt from Cape. Two great saves from the Hornets keeper meant Izzy was in the right place at the right time to push the ball over the line and seal a hard-fought but well-earned success.

The final score of 4-2 to Minehead, was a fitting reward for a determined and well-rounded performance. The win sees them continue to build momentum at home, with plenty to be proud of from both their attacking play and defensive resilience which was a feature in their latest win.

The Everett Roofing Works Player of the match went to Amy. This Saturday, February 1, Minehead face Exeter 4’s away in Exeter. Any support is always welcome and greatly appreciated by members of the squad.