Beeston Ladies 1st XI travel to Clifton Robinsons (of Bristol) this weekend, knowing that a win will open a four-point gap over their hosts.
In the first phase of the season, Beeston beat Clifton 2-0 with goals from Sophie Robinson and Lucy Millington. Both goals were scored within the first 10 minutes of the game and they were enough to settle the game.
Both sides managed draws on the road last weekend with Beeston being held by league leaders Surbiton whilst Clifton drew with Hampstead and Westminster.
With the top four breaking away, Beeston and Clifton are battling to stay hot on their heels and apply pressure on East Grinstead, Surbiton, Hampstead and Westminster and Wimbledon. Currently sitting in fifth place, should Beeston finish fifth or above, it will be the best finish for the ladies’ side in the history of the club.
Having come into the second half of the season with an extensive injury list several players are returning to fitness and should be available for the Nottingham side.
Head Coach James Sordillo commented “We have a few long term injuries but a lot of the little niggles seem to be clearing up and we are getting closer to where we want to be, and expect to be this second half of the season.
The depth of the squad has been key this season, we have used 21 players in 12 games and every single one of them has contributed and played a big part in what we have achieved so far this season.”
Paige Gillot, who missed the first half of the season through injury said of this weekends game, “Clifton on Saturday will be a great opportunity to continue our progression from our performances against Surbiton and East Grinstead in the previous weeks.
“Both ourselves and Clifton are coming off the back of draws against Surbiton and Hampstead and Westminster respectively, and will be gunning for 3 points, promising an exciting and tense game.
Although proud of our efforts against Surbiton, we know there is more left in the tank. We were left feeling frustrated not to come home with a win, having had large periods of dominant and sustained pressure, particularly in the second half. It will be essential for us to attack with intensity, confidence and fluidity, whilst maintaining concentration in defence for the full 70 minutes”
Beeston will once again be travelling South as the only side in the top six above the M4 motorway. Their next home game will be against Hampstead and Westminster on Saturday 26th February, 2pm push back at Nottingham Hockey Centre.
*Main image @asandysmith Paige Gillot in action against Surbiton.
