Round 1 of Lishman Plate
November 3rd, 2008
Blackburn Northern 3rds 2 Longridge 3rds 4
Round 1 of the Lishman Plate tournament, saw Blackburn 3rds take on Longridge 3rds. The game was played out in glorious sunshine throughout and Longridge, playing in their new team shirts certainly did justice to their team, club and team sponsors, Riverside Recoveries. Despite conceding an early goal in the opening minutes, it was clear that Longridge were going to be the more dominant team on the pitch, picking out their players with ease and only allowing Blackburn an occasional push forward. A penalty corner provided Longridge with an early opportunity to equalise from a well placed strike from Bronte Edgar. The team was working well together, holding their positions whilst generating and displaying excellent passing and movement across the pitch. The work rate and performance of Georgia Parker, Harriet Jones and Lucy Thompson in midfield was outstanding, enabling the forward attack of Williams, Edgar and Watson to run free at the Blackburn defence. This culminated in a period of attacking play that led to a further 3 goals for Longridge before half time, 2 for Edgar and one for Watson.
The second half provided an opportunity for the defence to make their contribution to the game. Again, as in the first half, Longridge allowed Blackburn to run at them and conceded an early goal. Thereafter, Longridge upped the tempo of the match, matching Blackburn’s refreshed efforts to get back in the game. The defensive work of Catherine Dickinson, Denise Cowell and Jess Hale, combined with the determination of Georgia Parker in midfield ensured that Blackburn would have to work extremely hard to break Longridge again. Katy Blezard was once again a key figure in goal, ensuring that the scoreline remained unchanged for the remainder of the match. Lucy Thompson was named Player of the Match by the opposition, just rewards for her effots throughout the game.
Longridge 3rds were well deserving of this win, playing their best hockey of the season so far. This great performance will stand them in good stead for their next league fixture against Lytham, who remain unbeaten this season.
Longridge 3rd Team is sponsered by Riverside Recoveries
Other results for the weekend
Longridge 1st team no game
Longridge 2nds v Garstang 1st – Caley Trophy game. Garstang 1st 3 – Longridge 2nds 1
