Women's 1st XI Vs Plymouth Lions

Caradon ladies first string played the last of their pre season friendlies against newly named Plymouth Lions. 
With a couple of squad members unavailable it was a chance to increase game fitness and try some new combinations on the pitch. 
The game started at a high tempo with Caradon creating the beat of the chances. Clare Poad striking the upright after good build up play from Clare Mitchell.

Molly Walsh and new signing, Hannah Bladon combined well in the center of the pitch and showed great vision with their forward passing. After a turn over of possession it was Walsh's inch perfect pass that found Bizzie Jeffery who dispatched a powerful reverse shot to beat the flailing keeper.

Plymouth were restricted to solo efforts due to the resolute defending of the new back line of Emma Gliddon, Daisy Hunn and Nicole Harding, but it was from one of these efforts that Plymouth equalised after a brilliant finish into the roof of the net. 

Caradon continued to work hard to create some fluid hockey. Movement off the ball and confidant passing from wingers Sadie Mullis and Jess Berry created another chance for Jeffery who again finished with pace and power. 
The second half looked more controlled from both teams as the unseasonal heat tired both sets of players. Jules Butterworth commanded the center and provided a great platform for her midfielders. Counter attacking was working well for the Cornish team and a surging attack from Abbi Ingram provided Jeffery with a chance to secure her first hat trick of the season and made no mistake with another trade mark goal. 
With the score at 3-1, Caradon took thier foot off the gas and allowed Plymouth a chance on goal which was initially cleared brilliantly off the line by captain Hunn but she couldn't stop the follow up and Plymouth briefly got within one goal but this was short lived as Caradon swiftly moved up the pitch for player of the match Jeffery to turn provider for Mullis to restore the 2 goal lead. 
 

With the league starting next week Caradon will be confident of a successful season. With  new faces arriving to the club and some returning they look forward to fielding 4 strong ladies squads to compete in 4 different leagues. 
Caradon first team face Plymouth at Marjons in a replay of this friendly and will hope for a repeat in performance and result.