Ruthless display at the seaside

Bury 4s struggled early on against a spirited Felixstowe 3s who crowded the ball effectively, denying clear routes to goal. Bury’s pressing held the ball in Felixstowe’s half but converting that possession into goal scoring chances was initially challenging as Bury players ran into walls of resolute defenders. Ultimately the first penalty corner broke the deadlock. After several saves rebounded to Bury sticks Katie Green bundled the fourth effort home. As was the case last week penalty corners opened the gate and we converted 4 of 8 on the day, Kathryn Mitchell scoring a stroke from our second one. As Bury gained confidence Felixstowe tired from the effort of constant defending and chances came more readily as Bury’s ball speed increased. Issy Snell, Amber Sharp, Jenny Clark and Kathryn (2) made the half time score 7-0, with all goals scored from close range, with players often passing around a goalkeeper who was standing up to straight shots well.

Bury actually played better in the second half as passes began to flow but Felixstowe chased well despite being pulled around the pitch. While Felixstowe never gave up, Bury were two yards faster after the experience of playing under the cosh in a higher division last year. The difference between the leagues is marked. Kathryn added another three goals with Amber getting two more for a final score of 12-0.

Bury return to Culford next week to play Ipswich 5. Hopefully on the return to Felixstowe in November to play their 2s Bury will remember the hockey pitch is marked by the yellow, not white, lines!