New season, new start. They are back and they are on form. Not to be perturbed by last season’s relegation York Women’s 1sts took on their first opponents of the season this week, Durham 3rds. With the memories of last year’s frustrating defeats still fresh in their minds the team were determined to tread a new path, one that will lead to victory. Known for their sporting success Durham always represent an intimidating challenge, which led to a shaky start with Durham popping 3 goals through an unsettled defence.
However, as the game progressed and York put into action their pre-season training skills it became clear that a win was entirely achievable, and the score began to reflect it. With the help of dream team duo Katie Barrett and Sacha Greane, and fresh talent of Alexis Laydle Bond, goal after goal took York into a comfortable lead. Yet despite having a glowing academic reputation it appears that Durham need to go back to the classroom when it comes to umpiring as some filthy play went unnoticed. Checks to the head and barging included, Durham’s physicality forced York to go full force and show them they had met their match.
Ruthlessly barrelling their way to goal would no longer get them through York’s tightened defence. The umpires eventually sprang alive in the final few minutes to yellow card a York player for an illegal check, leaving winning team York a man down with the score at a nail-biting 8-7. The players pulled together however, and with a fantastic effort held off the Durham attackers until the whistle blew and it was finally confirmed: York had won.
The euphoria of winning this, their first BUCS match of the year, coupled with an influx of promising freshers, has given the girls a confident start to the season. Let’s hope the success continues as they take on their next opponents, Hull, on Wednesday.
Vision MOTM: Izzi Mattick