A testing match stood ahead of the Repton Hockey Club Under 18 girls, sponsored by SCC, who travelled away to Stourport in what would likely be their final game of 2020. Always a difficult place to go to, the hosts were pumped for revenge after losing 5-0 to Repton last year.

The starting whistle was blown, and the visitors started on the front foot, with a few early circle entries. Within 3 minutes, 1 of these entries gave Repton the opener. A fantastic run by Claudia Swain and after an advantage was played, Isabel Archer slotted the ball home. A great start for the girls. Stourport responded with a few good chances in the first half, but none were successful due to a well-marshalled back line, with Scout Butler and Bronte Brough at the heart of it. Repton themselves had their own share of chances, with piercing runs from Swain and Northing being rewarded with shots on goal and penalty corners. One of these corners gave Repton a 2-goal cushion after Luisa Northing fired home the rebound after a good save. The half time whistle came and this gave both teams time to recover from a high pace first half.

The second half started with both teams playing at the same high intensity. Stourport controlled the ball at the back for longer periods of time but some good interceptions from the Repton midfield ensured that they saw no success with the longer balls they were trying to play. After a fast break, a penalty corner was won by Repton which was then dispatched with a rocket form the top by Claudia Swain. Stourport then came out and pushed for a lifeline but again were unsuccessful due to good defensive work and positive positioning from Izzi Evans, allowing her to snuff out any quick breaks Stourport tried to launch. The game ended 3-0 to Repton with both teams really giving it their all.

We would like to thank all involved for a very successful start to the season, both in games and training. Another thanks to Stourport who made the game possible and our trip positive in these testing times.