IT was with much trepidation that Beccles Ladies travelled to Taverham for a friendly game against Broadland first team who are in the hockey Premier Division.

Broadland 6, Beccles Ladies 1

IT was with much trepidation that Beccles Ladies travelled to Taverham for a friendly game against Broadland first team who are in the hockey Premier Division.

Both teams had to call on stand-in goalkeepers with Christine Muttitt kindly donning the keeper's kit for Beccles.

Beccles were fortunate to have the assistance of two players, Karen Knight and Megan Hatch, to make up a full squad, neither of whom had played for the team before or indeed played at all this season.

It was decided to play Heather Brand at sweeper and this proved to be the right decision as she had a splendid game, breaking down moves with her excellent timing and distribution.

Beccles knew that this was going to be a tough game and this was confirmed when Broadland scored their first three goals in eight minutes.

They took the Beccles defence by surprise with their fast pace and skilful manoeuvres but Beccles organised themselves and coped much better after the initial onslaught.

In the first half there was more play down the right hand side of the pitch and Megan Hatch and Karen Knight gelled well with each other and the team.

Carol Maycock worked industriously throughout the game, as she constantly battled for possession. It was not until the 24th and 28th minutes of the first half that Broadland increased their lead to five.

However, Beccles did manage a consolation goal just before half-time when Carol Maycock picked up a loose ball in the centre, pushed it out to Karen Knight who ran down the right hand side of the pitch, sent a lovely cross straight to Debbie Mann to sweep home through the keeper's legs.

The second half was much more even. The Beccles defence still had plenty to do and they all coped admirably. It was therefore disappointing when Broadland added another goal to their tally with only three minutes left.

Beccles should not be dissatisfied with their performance against this quality team.

This week Beccles Ladies have a league game away to Yarmouth II, 11.30am start.