Promotion joy for Beccles

Watton III 1, Beccles 2

BECCLES Ladies won this crucial game against Watton which leaves them finishing in second place in Division One of the M&A Partners Norfolk Hockey League, and therefore gaining promotion.

It was in 1994/5 season that Beccles played in the Premier and the club has gone through many chances since then. This promotion substantiates the decision taken three years ago to accept promotion from Division Two back to One.

This decision forced the club to move away from their grass pitch at Beccles after 40 years and move to the Hobart High School to play on a synthetic pitch as the rules dictate.

This was not the best display of team hockey from Beccles with the team playing at a slower pace than usual.

Both teams created scoring opportunities but the score remained goalless at half-time.

Watton created more clear cut chances but failed to capitalise.

Lorraine Greenwood in goal had to make a couple of very good saves.

Beccles also created chances mainly through the hard work of Annette Freeman and Ali Foreman who powered their way through the opposition as did Jodie Smith who controlled the centre position.

Watton played some very good short passing hockey using speed and determination.

Watton broke the deadlock in the second half. This goal spurred Beccles on and they started to play with more urgency. Beccles equalised sooon after when Lucy Paul deflected Freeman's shot into the goal.

These two were involved when Freeman passed the ball to Paul who was positioned on the back line of the D, she kept possession well then passed it back to Annette to power the ball into the goal for a 2-1 lead.

The Beccles defence had to hold out for the last 10 minutes, but with Watton needing a win to keep their promotion hopes alive the task was too great and Beccles sealed promotion.

Tomorrow Beccles have a friendly game at home against Sprowston, 10.30am start.