Ladies score shock victory over leaders (From Barry And District News)

Ladies score shock victory over leaders

BARRY LADIES 4 WHITCHURCH LADIES 2

BARRY Ladies hockey team pulled off the shock of the season by beating undefeated league leaders Whitchurch Ladies 1st XI.

The game started with both teams looking to attack, but although Whitchurch were causing the most problems they found goalkeeper Charlotte Preen in inspired form.

Barry took the lead after Ceri Western's persistence in chasing lost causes earned them a short corner.

Some quick passing between Claire Salisbury and Sam Preen led to Salisbury scoring the opener.

Whitchurch began to get a grip on the game but the home defence of Jodi Coombs, Jo Wright and Gemma Lewis held firm until lapses in concentration allowed the visitors to take a 2-1 lead at half-time.

The second half saw Whitchurch press even more but Barry's midfield of Rachel Fairweather, Stacey Bruce, Lucy Evans and Michelle Hunt were not allowing them any space, which is where the game turned. Barry pulled level as Western converted a penalty corner, then she picked up the ball on halfway and charged downfield.

Showing footwork that would have impressed the Strictly Come Dancing judges, she waltzed through the defence to set up Sam Preen for an easy goal.

Whitchurch threw everything forward but another Charlotte Preen save fell to Coombs who launched the ball upfield.

Bethan Owens chased after it and rounded the keeper and covering defence to send the supporters into raptures.