The U13 Blues team opened their league season with a hard-fought defeat to Essex Wanderers Topaz.
Wanderers opened brightly, but Essex responded well and showed real progress from last season - defending closely against each opponent and attacking with much more intent and speed. Wanderers led 4-3 after the first quarter, with Essex remaining in touch through the second quarter to only trail by 9-7.

An enforced change for Essex at halftime, however, turned the match. While Essex adjusted in defence, Wanderers took full advantage and pulled away to lead 14-8 by the end of the third quarter with some impressive passing movements. Essex tired in the fourth quarter, and more Wanderers pressure and accurate shooting paid off as they ran out 22-9 winners.

Essex showed their potential in the first half, and more performances in that style should see them continue to improve through the season. Congratulations to debutant Lara, who acquitted herself well the first time out, and to Nikita, who the opposition nominated as player of the match.