COLCHESTER 7

CANTERBURY 2A 1

East Women's Hockey League division one south

COLCHESTER Hockey Club ladies capitalised on Canterbury's numerical disadvantage to rack up a much-needed win.

The visitors were forced to start with only eight players, after four of their team were stuck in traffic on the way to the game.

Colchester immediately took advantage and took the lead in the first two minutes through Sophie Bendon.

Canterbury defended as well as they could, with their eight players making it difficult for the Colchester.

The away team received a great deal of home support, with every tackle, shot, pass made by the visitors met by loud cheers from Colchester's sporting supporters.

However, the hosts doubled their lead with Helen Scott rounding off some fantastic build-up play involving Libby Knifton and Kate Bagley, before Bendon made it 3-0.

Colchester keeper Plum had hardly anything to do during the first half but when she was called upon to make a save, she was solid.

But great work and build-up play by Ellie Benfield and Anne Marie Bradley resulted in another goal for Garbutt.

Colchester led 5-0 at half-time against an extremely hard-working Canterbury side who were determined to keep the score down.

The second half began in much the same way as the first period, with Bendon completing her hat-trick.

The Canterbury players finally arrived to join the rest of their team and excellent defending throughout the half by the likes of George, Lynn Gunn and Kate Bagley kept the visitors at bay.

Youngster Mary Robinson was excellent up front, linking up with the other forwards to help create a chance for Knifton who calmly slotted the ball home for 7-0.

Canterbury grabbed a late consolation to prompt a cheer from the home supporters but it was Colchester's day.

Colchester captain Anne Marie Bradley said: "A win's a win whatever the circumstances.

"Colchester played it in good spirit and there was some really nice passing especially in the second half."

Colchester travel to play Ashford, on Saturday.