Playing in bright conditions at Hatch End's home ground in Cow Roast, Berkhamstead, Putney found themselves on the back foot immediately, as Hawks wheeled away to score two goals. But digging in their heels, Putney battled back to 2-2, building a 6-3 lead on the back of goals from captain Rusty Cashman, Michelle Goulty, Imogen Sarre and new recruit Sasha Sassoon, to name but a few.

But after a time-out, Hawks came storming right back, tying the match at 7-7 at half time. It was just the wake up that Putney needed, as Sassoon danced away to four goals in a row to extend Putney's lead.

Hawks didn't tire, but Putney managed to stay one step ahead as Ags Hunt kept the defence tight, with some key saves from goalie Isabel Wiltshire, sterling midfield work from Emerald Willett, Leah Templeman, Harri Booth and Amy Jordan, while Cashman, Goulty, Sarre, Steph Gibson and Sassoon added to the scoreline bit by bit.

Work to be done, but a hard-fought win against a tough opponent remained something to be proud of.