Ladies 1's vs Oxford 1's

A run of tough results for Maidenhead Ladies 1’s meant that their home fixture vs a very well drilled Oxford side was going to be a battle of grit and determination, down to 12 players it was always going to be a tough ask.

Oxford started the stronger team, pegging the home side back in their own half for a good majority of the first half. Maidenhead’s defensive efforts as a whole team were undeniable, halting attacks and blocking the line to goal made it very difficult for Oxford to find the back of the net. After a number of short corners and Oxford attacks, Maidenhead slowly gained confidence and started to turn the tables a great run through the defence of Oxford by Captain Chantal Hankin was very unlucky not to find the back of the net. End to end play continued with Oxford finally finding the net through a break away goal after beating GK Hudson, who had been superb in the first half.

The second half started more evenly with the home side pressing higher and fighting for each ball, with 15 to go Maidenhead's efforts were rewarded from a great strike by forward Westacott at the top of the circle which was expertly deflected into the goal by Bird. The last 5 minutes was all Maidenhead, excellent pressing and scoring opportunities were created but just couldn’t find the winning goal. This was a gutsy performance by both sides and a share of the points was a fair result.

Maidenhead have a two week break to rest and recover to then move forward and finish the final quarter of the season with full squad, fitness, and fun !

Bex