2s win top of the table clash

Southend & Benfleet 2nd XI - 6 (Anna Winfield - 3, Felicity Galbally - 2, Claire King)
Crostyx 3rd XI - 2

S&B welcomed Crostyx in what was a top of the table clash, the later starting the day just two points behind the hosts. And as the match got underway it was clear that this was going to be a test for the division leaders, with end to end play. S&B were the first on the scoreboard when Felicity Galbally scored twice in quick succession, each time being set up by Anna Winfield. Winfield then got in on the goalscoring action herself after running the ball up from the halfway line, taking on several defenders, wrong footing the keeper and finishing in style. The hosts had just one short corner to defend, which they did successfully, taking the score a comfortable 3-0 into the break.

The second half started quite differently with Crostyx scoring twice early on, both from penalty corners, despite the best efforts of keeper Sarah Galbally. Crostyx were now back in the game but S&B stepped up to the challenge. The defence stood firm: Rebecca Utton put in some crucial tackles and Anne Johnson and Michelle Arnold blocked any more danger. Captain Kerry Payton had another impressive game and was voted joint player of the match alongside Galbally who, did not score any more herself but set up Winfield for her next two with almost identical goals - running the ball up the right and crossing for Winfield to finish. There was a worry when midfielder Louise Marsack had to come off injured, but Anna Hudson stepped in with no problem. S&B had several short corners which they were unable to convert, Claire King coming close, but she made up for it with a textbook strike making the final score 6-2. This result means that the 2s remain top of division 3, now with a three point lead.