University of East London Women’s 1st team claimed another three points this Wednesday. The Blues were able to grind out a 1-0 win and beat University of Hertfordshire 2nd for the second time this season away from home.
Both teams entered the match looking to win in an aim to avoid the relegation zone. With a goal from striker, Luzy Flores and an all-round outstanding performance they were able to take all three points with only nine players which takes them up to 4th place in the league.
Risk Of Retraction
Last week,UEL’s game against Royal Veterinary College Women’s 2nd was cancelled last minute due to a frozen pitch. This was not ideal as they looked to build on their gained momentum from previous results.
As it was an away game there was a struggle to field a full squad for the match. It was made aware to the team by UELSports that there wasa risk of them being withdrawn from the BUCS League if they were unable to do so.
They tried to make the numbers up but were unable to. Many of their players were unable to make the trip due to university classes, work commitments or multi-sport athletes who had other fixtures.
In the end the team travelled with only nine players and still managed to take the win.
Game Day Conviction
UEL were prepared for a defensive game considering they knew going into the game they were two players down with no substitutions for the full 70 minutes.
The defensive line, Cerys Gravell, Emma Ellis and Captain, Laura Pakenham, as well as goalkeeper Abbey Conroy were all ready for this battle.
Conroy told Rising East: “We knew it was not going to be an easy match, everyone was prepared to run their heart out and we went into the game with high spirits despite the disadvantage of only having nine players I think this was what helped us get this well-deserved win”.
Throughout the first half, possession was equal between the two teams. UEL were able to use what they had been practicing in training to pass comfortably and were able to keep controlof the ball.
Just before half-time, UEL were able to push up field and score to take the lead. Flores threw herself into the D and was able to tap the ball in a few yards from the goal as she stumbled to the floor.
After the half time break, UEL came out primarily looking to hold onto the lead and further it if possible. It was clear that Hertfordshire were frustrated and weren’t going to give up easily.
They came close only a couple of times with crucial saves from Conroy to deny them. As the full time whistle blew it was a mixture of celebration from UEL team as well as clear exhaustion.
What’s Next?
The season is far from over for the team, with only half of their games played,the second half of their season now begins. Some of the women’s team players are also a part of the mixed hockey team games which take place on Sunday.
As always they will all be back at training on Monday working harder than usual to prepare themselves for the team’s next match as they look to continue this momentum.
Their next fixture will be on Wednesday the 13th of February where they face University of the Arts London Women’s 1st. Push back is scheduled for 3pm at home ground Lee Valley Tennis and Hockey Centre.
