University of East London women’s hockey team clinched their first win of the season. It was a close game but the Blues were able to beat University of Hertfordshire 2nd 1-0 on home turf at the Lee Valley Tennis and Hockey Centre.
Both teams entered the match with zero points, with UEL having only played one game thus far. With a goal from captain, Laura Pakenham they were able to take all three points.
All The Positives
UEL were able to field a whole team and have two substitutes heading into the game. This was a real boost for the team as it has been a struggle to do so in past seasons.
Despite losing their first game of the season with a 7-0 loss against University of Arts London women’s 1st, UEL had their heads high and were confident going into the game.
This confidence payed off, as Pakenham was able to push up field in the first half and place the ball in the back of the net from the top of the D, putting the team ahead.
Holding On
After the half time break, UEL came out looking to hold onto the lead and further it if possible. But, it was clear that Hertfordshire were not going to give up, with the north London-based university pilling the pressure in the latter half.
The opposition only came close once – so close that their back field players were already celebrating. From a short corner the ball hit the inside of post, but defender Emma Ellis was able to make a crucial touch and clear it off the goal line.
There was a sigh of relief from everyone in the UEL ranks when the full time whistle blew at Lee Valley, with Pakenham emphasising the team’s efforts, telling Rising East: “Everyone played well, we fought hard to win and it paid off”.
Looking Ahead
Games are coming thick and fast for the team with numerous players from the women’s team also playing in the mixed hockey team games on Sunday.
Nevertheless, they will all be back at training working hard as usual on Monday to prepare themselves for the team’s next match.
Their next fixture is part of the BUCS South Eastern Conference Plate where they face, University College London Women’s 5th. The game is scheduled for 13:30pm on Wednesday 7th November at Lee Valley Tennis and Hockey Centre where UEL will look to go on a cup run.
