Top-of-the-league Chard travelled to Taunton Vale Hockey Club for an evening fixture against a strong Vale side, with the later 4.30pm start proving a change from Chard’s usual match routine.

The match began evenly, with both teams creating early chances. A worrying moment came early in the first half when Ruby was struck on the head and was forced to leave the pitch after sustaining a heavy cut, with blood pouring down her face.

Chard soon found their rhythm and broke the deadlock through some excellent play down the right-hand side. Amy Goss made a strong run down the wing before delivering a dangerous cross into the D. Summer was waiting to receive the ball and calmly slipped it through to Katie, who pushed the ball into the backboard to give Chard a deserved lead.

Vale responded well, moving the ball confidently across the pitch and applying sustained pressure. Chard’s defensive line of Lois, Jade, EJ and Min battled superbly, making crucial tackles and blocks to deny Vale clear chances. Their resilience was highlighted when Chard successfully kept out a penalty flick.

Despite the defensive efforts, Vale managed to claw a goal back just before half-time, sending the teams into the break level at 1–1.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with both sides fighting hard for control of the game. Midfielders Sash and Char worked tirelessly in the centre of the pitch, while Layla played extremely well between midfield and forward, linking play effectively and providing constant movement and attacking options. Up front, Kez caused problems for the Vale defence and created several good chances, keeping Chard on the front foot. At the back, goalkeeper Hattie made a series of crucial saves to keep the scores level.

Chard came agonisingly close to snatching all three points with the final hit of the game, but Katie’s effort was brilliantly saved by the Vale goalkeeper, who had a stormer of a performance throughout.

The match finished 1–1 after a hard-fought contest.

Player of the Match: Hattie, whose outstanding goalkeeping and fantastic saves ensured Chard left with a well-earned point.
Dick of the Day: Coach Trevor Goss.