Defence, Disruptions and Did we just do that?

Can I remember Fairbrother’s fun fact from this game… no. Will Andy see this and remind me… yes.

Late away games are all part of the process now for Sutton, and despite half the team spending more time indoor training, the girls made the trip to Stowe School for a blustery day out.

A slippy pitch. Lots of debris. But all the vibes.

Sutton knew a win would take them top. Buckingham knew a win or draw would keep them top. But both teams knew this would be contest.
Both teams sporting different line ups due to injuries and availability issues it was a case of forget the early season match up and go for it. Buckingham did just that.

Statistic wise Bucks were up on Sutton on all counts. Possesion, circle entries and shots. But Carpay kept the door locked and when the press worked it kept the home team quiet mostly.

Both Pughs put in solid shifts across all the lines and the defence kept everyone calm ahead. Composure was key and whoever blinked first would be the losers.

PCD wins games became the motto. As Buckingham had attempt after attempt. Some producing killer saves from Carpay. And others being charged down.

One particular charge down did earn Sutton a longer break as an unfortunate deflection sent one of the Buckingham players home early with a nasty head injury. We were assured she was okay though.

It took until the third quarter for the deadlock to break. And Buckingham’s pressure paid off as they converted a well worked move.
However, Sutton took their own chances up the other end that were few and far between. With a little help from their opponents, McCabe scored the equaliser off a penalty corner.

More defence was required from Sutton and despite a rush of blood to the head from Lucy, resulting in another injury for Bucks, Sutton kept it level. BP doing a stellar number one runner job and all post players holding firm.

And then the next goal came. From a penalty corner. For Sutton. What better time to score your first National League goal hey Mollie. With a little help from Bucks again.

2-1 and minutes left on the clock. Delay, Disrupt and drive for the corners was the call. An overhead from EP saw the game out and that was that. Sutton had the three points and with that… top of the table.

POM went to Carpay for a truly formidable performance in goal. DOD went to ET for forgetting her stick.

Off indoor for the girls now. Seeking promotion there before the return of the outdoor game in 2024.