21st Feb 2010

A ROUND TO FAR

ENGLAND HOCKEY LADIES NATIONAL VASE, Round 5

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 1 – 4 CIRENCESTER

With the previous days records breaking win still fresh and with a real prospect of getting to the national quarter finals, Truro were very much up for this fixture.

Although things started fairly evenly as each team took a little while to feel each other out, Truro suffered the first blow. Top gun Laura Harper broke free of the defence in the first real attack of either side but the advancing keeper managed to get to the ball first, kicking it into Harpers ankle, forcing her off temporarily. They then lost Nicki Bain to a blood injury and before their replacements had had a chance to orientate themselves Truro were caught in a clinical passing move that saw Jade Taylor save twice but be unable to stop the third shot.

Truro dug deep, reorganised and took the game back to Ciren. Bain and Anna Barrington both had good chances saved but the game was starting to open up and expose the inexperience in the side. Kelly Jefferies, Paula Cockles, Vicki Cooke, Vicki Ivison and Taylor in goal were heroic in keeping Truro in the game at times, and although they were breached again just before half time, they felt that a 2 goal deficit wasn’t insurmountable.

Back to full strength in the 2nd half they went looking for a goal, Jefferies nearly grabbed one deflecting Harpers shot but it went agonisingly the wrong side of the post. Unfortunately Cirencester broke away scrambling the ball again over Truro’s goal line.

Just as Ciren had thought they’d put Truro to bed, Alexa Blake gained a short corner which Harper buried in possibly the goal of the season to give the Cornish girls some hope. Cirencester were on the back foot now but Truro just could not seem to find a way through, even having a very good penalty flick shout waved away when Harpers stick was hooked as she shot.

They were again caught on the break with another goal mouth scramble seeing the ball trickle agonisingly across the line. Despite this, every single player kept fighting for the win right up to the final whistle giving everything they had to give.

With completely contrasting styles, this had been an excellent match, giving a lot of valuable experience to some of the younger players. Cirencesters discipline and structure against Truro’s grit and flair, both sides had had chances to win this but Truro’s finest won’t be advancing into the quarter finals this year.

Team: Jade Taylor, Miranda Burton, Vicki Cooke, Vicki Ivison, Michelle Hares, Paula Cockles, Marion Taylor, Kelly Jefferies, Stacey Coote ©, Nicki Bain, Natalie Oliver, Laura Harper, Alexa Blake, Anna Barrington

 

20th Feb 2010

GOAL FEST 2!

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 13 – 0 BODMIN

Having threatened it the week before with their 9-0 demolition of Caradon, Truro this time did get to double figures when they entertained Bodmin at Truro School.

Nothing at their previous encounter suggested that this would be so one sided, a 2-2 draw had only been memorable for the amount of cards handed out. Truro proved they were the better team this weekend though, when they finished off with the highest score in the league so far this year with a phenomenal 13 unanswered goals.

The performance the girls put on this weekend was top class, showing great attitude and great skill. The defence worked well with Anna Rogers taking control at the back, until a ball travelling at speed hit her on the forehead meaning a trip to casualty and 7 stitches. Paula Cockle, who has recently returned from maternity, stepped up, slotting straight into Anna’s position and took control.

Kelly Jefferies in the holding role in the middle played the crucial pivot to perfection, distributing some great balls to the goal hungry forwards. Laura Harper and Anna Barrington were unplayable from Bodmin’s point of view as time after time they carved open the defence to ruin the Bodmin keepers day.

To their credit Bodmin never stopped trying to play the game but Jade Taylor in goal was totally redundant in the 2nd half. Unfortunately they just caught Truro on a day when everything went right.

Harper came away with 4 goals, Anna Barrington 1, Becky Oram 2, Alexa Blake 1, Nicki Bain 2, Marion Taylor 1 and Natalie Oliver who had previously suffered a broken thumb, broke her injury rest early, coming on and slotted 2 goals past the goalie with minutes of each other which also awarded her Maid of the match. .

Having wobbled a bit in January, losing their top slot, Truro are right back on the money again, having now scored a eye watering 22 unanswered goals in the last 2 weeks. The team will hopefully continue their success when they face Plymouth Uni next week at Lipson

Team: Jade Taylor, Anna Rogers, Michelle Hares, Vicky Cook, Paula Cockle, Kelly Jefferies, Stacie Coote ©, Nikki Bain, Marian Taylor, Laura Harper, Anna Barrington, Alexa Blake, Becky Oram, Zoe Fitzgerald, Natalie Oliver.

 

13th Feb 2010

9 GOAL CONFIDENCE BOOSTER

CARADON 2nd’s 0 – 9 TRURO LADIES 1st’s

With a change of formation, Captain Stacie Coote was hoping that Truro could put their recent run of poor results behind them and get their title challenge back on track.

Truro took a few minutes to bed in with their new shape, but once they felt comfortable they looked the stronger team playing some lovely team hockey. The midfield of Nikki Bain, Kelly Jefferies and Coote proved a great mix creating numerous attacks for the eager forwards to get on the end of. It was from one of these that Bain scored the first goal of the game when she slapped the ball in at the near post from a Laura Harper strike.

The second goal came very quickly after when the great partnership of Harper and Anna Barrington confused the defence for a short corner. This was duly converted with another deflection from a Harper strike, this time from Jefferies.

 

Getting confident in their structure, Truro stretched the Caradon midfield and defence, creating some outstanding moves which have been few and far between in recent weeks. A series of attacks led to another short corner where Harper and Barrington combined for a text book routine which Harper finished off with a thunderous strike.

 

The Truro girls were getting very relaxed and confident in their fellow team mates and passed the ball around nicely. Barrington who had been so unselfish, got a goal of her own when Becky Oram nicely crossed the ball from the wing.

 

Not holding back, Jefferies broke down a Caradon attack and distributed the ball wide to Oram who linked up well with Bain on the left. Bain used her skill to get around two players before playing the ball back to Oram who put it past the keeper to make it 5 -0 to the ‘Green Army’. Another goal from Harper completed the half time scoring to make it 6-0.

 

The break saw a very happy Truro side enjoying their hockey. Coach Caton decided to rest the tireless Bain and Alexa Blake who had had a very understated but professional performance, to bring on some 'new blood' into the second half.

 

With such a lead, Truro relaxed a little which let Caradon come back with some attacks of their own. The back three of Chantel Richards, Anna Rogers and Michelle Hares played calmly throughout and distributed the ball with thought and ambition.

 

It was a Hares clearance that set up the next goal for the Truro girls linking with Jefferies in the midfield who picked out Barrington at the top of the area. As always Barrington made neat work getting around 2 defenders to slot the ball passed the keeper.

 

After some pressure for the Caradon wings and Centre forward, Truro found themselves on the back foot slightly giving away three short corners in a row. Fortunately, goal keeper Jade Taylor, who has been a rock for the Truro girls in defence this season, was on form and held out two straight strikes. The third short was easily caught by Jefferies who dribbled the ball out of the d and sent a long ball forward to Harper who combined well with Blake on the wing to get her hat-trick and the teams 8th goal of the game.

 

After a slight injury, Jefferies made way for the much awaited return of Paula Cockles who had a brilliant return tackling hard and passing well. The changed midfield of Cockles, Marian Taylor and Vicky Ivison worked well stoping any opportunistic breaks by the Caradon wingers. Any dangers created were cleared up brilliantly by the very capable Miranda Burton and Vicky Cooke who are proving to be a great asset to our squad.

 

Harper grabbed her fourth of the day and Truro’s 9th then there should have been a 10th but Harper’s final shot hadn’t quite crossed the goal line when the final whistle went. A couple of breaks from the Caradon defence caused a few more short corners and a card for Rogers but Truro held a precious clean sheet.

 

Final score 9-0, Harper 4, Barrington 2, Bain 1, Jefferies 1, Oram 1.

 

An overall much improved and impressive display of hockey taking them back into 2nd place in Trelawney 1. Hopefully, this result will help with confidence in the weeks ahead and give Truro the hope that they are not out of promotion race yet.

Also to come next week, Truro ladies will be hoping to progress to the quarter finals of the Ladies National Vase when they take on Cirencester at Truro School on Sunday at 1pm.

Jade Taylor, Michelle Hares, Chantel Richards, Anna Rogers, Stacey Coote, Kelly Jefferies, Nicki Bain, Vicki Ivison, Becky Oram, Anna Barrington, Laura Harper, Marian Taylor, Miranda Burton, Vicki Cook, Paula Cockle, Alexa Blake

 

6th Feb 2010

PROMOTION CHANCE LOOKING PERILIOUS, PART 2.

TORBAY 5 – 1 TRURO LADIES 1st’s

Having had a run of bad form in recent weeks, 3rd placed Truro went to 2nd placed Torbay hoping to reignite their faltering campaign and continue to pressurise leaders Mannamead.

Having lost almost half of their team from earlier in the season to pregnancy, injury and emigration, several new faces were hoping to stake a claim to a regular place.

It didn’t begin well for Truro though, from the starting whistle they were on the back foot, having to defend deep and with Jade Taylor making her opening save in the first few minutes. Unable to relieve the pressure it was unsurprising that Truro conceded goals, firstly on a corner, and then passed an unsighted Taylor.

Perhaps Torbay were getting over confident but they were starting to leave gaps which Truro were finally able to exploit. Nicki Bain and Kelly Jefferies now had a bit of space to start creating opportunities for the forwards. Both Laura Harper and Capt Stacey Coote went close but Truro weren’t getting some of the decisions that they thought they should of and frustration crept in.

Truro played some great balls forward but were caught out on the break many too many times, and were not quick enough to readjust, conceding a 3rd goal just before half time.

The talk at half time by coach Steve Caton must of made a difference as the Cornish girls started to play like a different team. Within the first 5 minutes of the second half, Truro were awarded a short corner. Top striker Harper was on top of the area with the shot but it was saved by the Torbay keeper who cleared it out straight to Jefferies. Fortunately she spotted that Capt Coote had slipped her marker, who scored what is becoming her trade mark, a goal with a pile of bodies on the floor! This gave Truro the pick up they needed and from then on were the stronger team.

Showing all their fighting spirit, Truro kept plugging away at the Torbay goal, but too many shots went wide and again frustrations began to creep in. Truro were then caught on the break again when Torbay managed to break through the defence to put another 2 past goal keeper Taylor who had kept Truro in the match in the first half.

On another day with the possession and chances they had, Truro could of run away with this game but it wasn’t their day. There are plenty of positive to take away though, the overall performance especially in the 2nd half was a vast improvement on previous weeks and several new players showed they will be valuable additions to the side. Becky Oram, Vicki Cooke and Clo Sutcliffe all proved something to themselves as well as the rest of the team that they’re ready to take on the challenge of this league.

Maid of the match this week was a three way tie with Bain, Anna Barrington and Miranda Burton, all battling hard and never giving up.

Truro lost 5-1 but will use this for ammo when they meet Caradon 2’s next week.

Jade Taylor, Anna Rogers, Chantel Richards, Michelle Hares, Miranda Burton, Anna Barrington, Marian Taylor, Vicky Ivison, Kelly Jefferies, Nikki Bain, Becky Oram, © Stacey Coote, Laura Harper, Vicky Cook, Clo Sutlciffe

 

30th Jan 2010

BAD DAY AT THE OFFICE

TRUO LADIES 1- 4 OKEHAMPTON

To compound a horrible day for Truro Hockey Club, their ladies who had the best chance of all their teams for promotion, crashed badly to a distinctly average Okehampton side.

Unusually Truro started by far the better; Kelly Jefferies and Natalie Oliver were providing the platform for quick balls out to both Alexa Blake and Chloe Sutcliffe who were getting behind the Devon defence. Several shots went narrowly wide before top scorer Laura Harper broke into the area firing off a shot that went under the keeper. It was stopped on the line by a defender but bounced back to another defender who bizarrely kicked it into her goal. From this position the Cornish side should have won this at a cantor but Okehampton changed their tactics, which Truro never really dealt with.

Dropping almost all their players back to defend in numbers Okehampton left all their attacking to a single fast, skilful centre forward. Catching them on the break they scored as Truro were getting frustrated that their amount of possession hadn’t resulted in a healthy lead. Stung by this Truro camped in the Okehampton area but were continually thwarted, and again they were hit on the break and went into half time a goal down.

A shuffling of personnel brought Truro out strongly in the 2nd half, again dominating with long periods of possession. Again they had little to show for it, with half a dozen shots all going narrowly wide.

Okehampton were looking just like they might crumble when their forward again broke free of her markers and despite two great saves from ‘Maid of the Match’ Jade Taylor, eventually forced the ball over the line. Truro again piled on the pressure, on another day Harper, Blake and Jefferies could all of had hat tricks but luck just wasn’t with them.

To twist the knife, Okehamptons forward got them a 4th goal in the final few minutes, while Truro lost one of their best players Oliver with a broken thumb.

Next weeks match away to Torbay now goes from being important to absolutely vital to their seasons hopes.

 

23rd Jan 2010

Beaten but still top

MANNAMEAD 4 – 1 TRURO

Truro ladies travelled to Plymouth early Saturday morning with the hopes of retaining their lead at the top of Trelawney 1.

Truro started on the back foot creating some nail biting moments. Jade Taylor in goal was pulling off some great saves to keep the hopes alive. With a clearance from Anna Rogers at the back, Kelly Jefferies and Natalie Oliver linked up well to find Alexa Blake in acres of space. Blake’s exceptional pace caused a last ditch tackle from a defender creating a short corner for the Truro girls. 

A foot from a Nikki Bain strike caused another short corner for Truro and some lovely thought from Blake played the ball back to Jefferies who battled her way past the defender at the near post to slot the shot under the keeper for the 1st goal of the game. 

Mannamead fought hard at Truro for the equaliser and tackled hard on Bain and Jefferies every time they got the ball. Whilst the middle was a battle field, the wingers found they had lots of room to manoeuvre. Oliver collected the ball in midfield and wellied the ball up to Anna Barrington who was having a tough time on her own up front. Mannamead wrestled the ball of Barrington and charged at Truro. Truro could not intercept the ball in time and Mannamead forced a good individual goal from their forward.

 At the break it was all even.

Truro went into the second half unsettled and it showed in the organisation. Mannamead wanted the ball more then the Truro girls and got those important 50/50 balls. Once again Jefferies was getting bullied in the midfield being tripped several times. Captain Coote had words with the umpire and he was having none of it.

The Truro girls were rattled and seemed to let their heads drop.

Miranda Burton who had a solid game got carded for a stray tackle (?!!). Unfortunately, the Truro girls let this get on top of them and did not play their own game. Mannamead scored 2 identical goals on the break with their quick winger easily getting through our defence and slipping it to the penalty spot.

Truro had almost given up but were still battling on with interceptions and runs. It was a run from Barrington that caused the last hope for the Truro girls getting passed three players and into the d where she was unlikely not to get the short corner, astouded by this, Truro stood still and didn’t play the whistle causing another break by Mannamead and a sloppy goal. 

Truro are looking to improve there mentality in their next two crucial games in Trelawny 1. Fortunately, 2nd in the league Torbay also lost to Mannamead 1’s on the Sunday so Truro still remain top and hopeful for promotion.

 

17th Jan 2010

 

CAPT COOTE TO THE RESCUE

TRURO LADIES 3 – 2 KINGSBRIDGE

After the previous days convincing win, Truro were confident against league newcomers Kingsbridge in this rearranged match from December.

Again Truro took a couple of minutes to get into the mood of the game but once there they showed their class, with few Kingsbridge attacks getting beyond the Truro half way line. Whilst at the other end Laura Harper was being consistently set up by both Kate Blackburn and Alexa Blake from wide. Things were looking good and 10 minutes in Harper struck, sliding the ball under a diving keeper for her 4th or the weekend. 10 minutes after this, Blackburn pounced on a half cleared ball, smashing it into the opposite corner of the goal for the 2nd. Truro then thought they’d got a 3rd, again from a Blackburn thunderbolt, but were aggrieved when the umpires couldn’t make up their minds if the goal was legit or not, therefore giving the benefit of the doubt to a relieved Kingsbridge defence.

Although disappointed at halftime not to be further ahead, Truro had a quiet confidence that they were in complete control and that more goals were to come.

However, it wasn’t Truro who scored the next goal. Completely against the run of play the Devon side managed to get the ball into the Truro area, a Kingsbridge forward was allowed to waltz along the bye line to square for a training ground tap in. To the horror of all the ‘green army’ there, only a few minutes later Kingsbridge scored again with a carbon copy goal.

Suddenly it looked like Truro were about to fall apart as they were themselves pinned back. Jade Taylor, Anna Rogers and Chantelle Richards were called upon to hold the line until Kelly Jefferies, Natalie Oliver and Nicki Bain could regain control of a chaotic middle. Kingsbridge had their tails up and Truro were required to wrestle for every inch as they gradually pushed them back, no sign of finesse, just street fighting.

The last quarter of the match wasn’t pretty but was certainly passionate from both sides but Truro are unbeaten this season for a reason. With less that 5 minutes to go, Truro won a corner, Harper’s first shot was saved but Capt Coote followed up, forcing the ball over the line (along with a defender and keeper) for the winner. Kingsbridge did have one final attack but a brilliant double save from Taylor keep all the points for Truro.

A tight game but a good reminder that not all this season’s games will be as easy as Saturday’s. They face another tough test next week away to Mannamead 1st’s but a win will probably eliminate one of their rivals from the promotion race.

Jade Taylor, Marion Taylor, Anna Rogers, Chantel Richards, Stacey Coote ©, Kelly Jefferies, Nicki Bain, Natalie Oliver, Alexa Blake, Kate Blackburn, Laura Harper, Miranda Burton, Frankie Raquet, Caroline Oakes

 

 

16th Jan 2010

 

TRURO ON CLOUD 9

TRURO LADIES 9 – 0 MANNAMEAD 2nd’s

Truro finally got their feet back on the pitch this weekend after the previous weeks of bad weather had stopped them from training but this didn’t stop Truro getting back down to business. Although Truro were a bit rough for the first few minutes, this was to be expected and they gradually eased themselves back into the swing of things, showing Mannamead 2nd’s why they continue to be top of Trelawney 1.

With a strong team and plenty of subs, Truro dominated the game from the start. So well protected by Anna Rogers and Chantelle Richards, Jade Taylor in goal only touched the ball once. With the half backs, Capt Stacie Coote, Marion Taylor and Michelle Hares able to get up in support of the attack, helping keep Mannamead pinned against their own goal for most of the match.

However, it was the engine room in the middle with Kelly Jefferies, Nikki Bain and Lois Parkinson that set up attack after attack. Smothering the opposition, recovering possession and spreading the play, they were a dream for the 3 forwards to work with. Less that 5 minutes in and Truro were already 1-0 up from Anna Barrington with a lovely one two with Laura Harper. After this the goals kept coming, with Truro going into the half time break 7-0 up.

So confident were they that they effectively turned the 2nd half into a training game, experimenting with some players in different positions, as well as giving some of the younger players more experience. Although not as prolific, they did score another 2 goals to win this at a walk. Harper and Barrington both scored hat tricks, Parkinson managed to bag herself a goal for her last game of the season due to maternity. Jefferies, worked a lovely goal running through several players to bag herself a beauty, while Alexa Blake managed to fall for her goal, showing great determination and strength by giving everything for that last push into goal.

A great result for the first game of the second half of the season. MOTM went to Capt Stacie Coote. Truro remains at the top of league and will take on Kinsgbridge on Sunday, rearranged game from December due to them having Swine Flu.

Jade Taylor, Chantel Richards, Anna Rogers, Kelly Jefferies, Stacie Coote ©, Michelle Hares, Marian Taylor, Miranda Burton, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Anna Barrington, Nikki Bain, Caroline Oakes, Lois Parkinson

   

 

5th Dec 2009

 

IS BARRINGTON THE BEST TRURO LADY EVER?

PLYM VALLEY 2nd’s 0-7 TRURO LADIES 1st’s

 

Missing several key players and having two debutantes, Truro ladies would have been entitled to be apprehensive about their match away to Plym Valley. Such though is the confidence in themselves these days, that all they were wondering was how many they could put passed their Devon neighbours.

After last weekend’s great performances in both league and cup, they ran riot against a struggling side, with Plym Valley totally unable to cope with Truro’s speed and pressure. With Natalie Oliver orchestrating things from the middle, Anna Barrington on the left and Alexa Blake on the right, they tore the defence to shreds. Barrington’s work rate was immense, continually hounding the defenders, recovering the ball when she lost it, chasing everything and being rewarded for her tenacity with the first goal of the day.

Valley were creaking under the weight of all the attacks but just about managed to hold Truro for the rest of the first half with some desperate and brave defending.

Seeing that their opponents had used up all their nine lives, Truro went into over drive in the 2nd half. Immediately Blake chimed in with a well deserved 2nd goal, from the half way line she flew passed several Devon players and surprised the keeper from a tight angle with a powerful shot. This was the catalyst for a flurry of goals from Truro. Lois Parkinson had her corner saved but Louise Nicholettos was on hand to pick up the rebound and smash it into the roof of the net for Truro’s 3rd. Full of confidence now, the Cornish girls were moving the ball around beautifully, not giving Valley a sniff of possession, gaps were appearing regularly in the defence and Barrington pounced, getting 3 more goals in quick succession, the pick being a lovely mazy weave through the defence before nutmegging a bamboozled keeper.

The forwards were not the only ones having fun though, for their first league game, both Becky Oram on the left and Chloe Doyle on the right were doing excellent jobs supporting their wingers, getting forward on occasions and recovering the ball to start it off again.

Truro’s only downside of the day came when Capt Stacey Coote, who had had a great game in the centre, was forced off after a wild tackle from a Valley player caught her knee. Briefly Plym Valley did try mounting an expedition into Truro territory but they had nothing to trouble Anna Roger’s goal, with Vicki Ivison and Michelle Hares marshalling their defence well, returning Truro to the attack.

Back where they’d spent most of the game, they won a series of corners, culminating in the ever slippery Oliver collecting Truro’s 7th. In the dying moments of the match, Kelly Jefferies, who had had an understated, thoroughly professional performance, should of got the 8th when she superbly flicked the ball passed the keepers head. The umpire though, possibly not wanting to see Valley humiliated, decided this was ‘dangerous’ and disallowed it.

The success of the younger players coming through the ranks shows that they now have the quality in depth lacking in previous years. Truro still tops Trelawney 1, are in the last 16 of the National Vase, as well as able to defend their County Plate, they can be proud of what they’ve accomplished so far, but know that their job is only half done.

Anna Rogers, Michelle Hares, Vicky Ivison, Stacey Coote ©, Kelly Jefferies, Natalie Oliver, Lois Parkinson, Anna Barrington, Chloe Doyle, Becky Oram, Louise Nicholettos, Alexa Blake

 

 

 

ENGLAND HOCKEY, LADIES NATIONAL VASE

 

29th Nov 2009

 

BLAKE FIRES CORNISH GIRLS INTO LAST 16

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 4v0 WEYMOUTH

 

Other double header weekend saw Truro ladies playing in the England Hockey National Vase on Sunday, with the weather holding up, and after the previous day’s lacklustre performance they were up for the fight. Truro were nervous of Weymouths talents but were determined to go out and prove that Cornwall can produce teams that can play hockey.

Like Saturdays game, Truro started off well, passing the ball around nicely, settling quickly, and with few new players and some others out of their normal positions, were showing their adaptability. As in their previous game, the defence looked steady in coping with Weymouths sporadic forays into Cornish territory, and the midfield of Capt Coote, Kelly Jefferies and Vicki Iverson built on this to drive the game.

Some of the forward play in the first 20 minutes was fantastic; Laura Harper capping her matching winning display on Saturday opened the scoring after only 4 minutes. Fed a great ball after Natalie Oliver and Coote had opened up the defence , she out sped her marker, clinically slotting in passed the keeper. Weymouth realising Harper as the main threat, drew other defenders across to box her in, this left Alexa Blake on the right with all the room to exploit her exceptional pace. 5 minutes after the first goal, Blake received the ball from Iverson, driving half the length of the pitch before cutting in and embarrassing the keeper on her near post. 10 Minutes after this she repeated it almost as an action replay.

3-0 up after 20 minutes and Truro couldn’t believe their luck and how different they were from the previous day. Weymouth did lift their game, Anna Rogers, Michelle Hares, Caroline Oakes, Chantel Richards and Iverson were driven back into their own area but they proved how resilient they could be, although ‘maid of the match’ Jade Taylor was called upon to make some excellent saves.

Even though the 2nd half had fewer goals, the play from both sides became even better. Weymouth, who are also at the top of their league, were determined not to let themselves down and really had a go at Truro, who gave as good as they got. Credit must be given to each team, as unlike a lot of games this never became fractious or bad tempered, both teams were trying to play the best hockey they could against an equally determined opposition.

Truro’s 4th goal and Blake’s hat trick came from some solid work in the middle by Jefferies and Natalie Oliver. Having switched to the centre, Blake this time smashed the ball into the net from the top of the area. At the other end Taylor was then forced to make an extended series of saves to preserve her clean sheet. Weymouth never gave up and right to the final whistle continued to keep Truro on their toes.

An excellent game for all the right reasons, including a bit of sunshine, Truro’s ladies capped a great day for themselves with this victory. They even felt comfortable enough to blood some of the 2nd team in this match, Miranda Burton, Vicki Cooke and Verity all had some pitch time and showed that they didn’t look out of place.

Truro are now in the last 16 nationally and will be relieved to hear that their next round game against Cirencester is also a home fixture.

Team: Jade Taylor, Miranda Burton, Chantel Richards, Anna Rogers, Michelle Hares. Natalie Oliver, Vicky Cook, Kelly Cadwell, Stacey Coote (Cpt), Caroline Oakes, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Verity

  

 

28th Nov 2009

 

CLOSE CALL

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 2 - 1 MORGARROWS

 

Truro against Morgarrows is a game that has always had a bit of an edge to it, but this was a curiously subdued affair, alleviated by 2 moments of brilliance. With a busy run in several cup competitions going on Truro perhaps took their eyes off the main prize and nearly paid the price.

Truro did start brightly enough; Nicki Bain was able to spread the ball around nicely from the middle with Alexa Blake and Laura Harper coming close early on. In recent months once Truro have gotten on top of their opposition they have rarely let them back into the game, but after 15 minutes or so they seemed to lose focus. Morgarrows didn’t need a second invitation, immediately putting Truro on the back foot and keeping them pinned back in their own area. Chantelle Richards, Michelle Hares and Jade Taylor in goal were holding up under the pressure but as fast as they were getting the ball out, it was coming right back at them. Truro were looking quite disorganised despite some good individual displays, both Anna Barrington and Capt. Stacey Coote were excellent at holding their respective wingers at bay. Eventually the pressure told though and Morgarrows found the back of the goal.

This was the first time all season that Truro have been behind and Morgarrows tails were up but from somewhere they dug deep, reorganized and got themselves back into the game. By half time they were still a goal down but had got a bit of fight about them.

The 2nd half was a far more even affair with both sides seemingly stuck in a midfield grind that ebbed first one way then the other without either side able to capitalize on any openings, and smothering the oppositions. What broke the deadlock for Truro was 2 moments of genius involving centre forward Harper.

Kelly Jefferies was startled to receive an interception but made no hesitation in punting a peach of a ball to Harper. Taking off, she managed to wrong foot or out sprint 4 defenders, cleverly playing the umpires advantage, before bravely sliding the ball under the onrushing keeper who flattened her in the process.

It had taken almost an hour but Truro now went for the win with gusto. Unfortunately in the process they ended up losing the versatile Barrington with a split forehead after she was involved in a goalmouth collision with Harper and the Morgarrows keeper. The industrious Natalie Oliver won Truro a corner from which Harper hit a perfectly flighted ball over the keeper but crucially below the back board to give them the lead.

Morgarrows hit back with a series of their own corners which Taylor did well to keep out but with a few minutes left Morgarrows lost their best player, also to a split forehead. From this, the game returned to stalemate with Truro happy to see out the clock.

After some great performances in recent weeks it was perhaps inevitable that Truro were due a bad day at the office. Fortunately for them they continued to win, and another set of 3 points sits in the cabinet still keeping them at the top of Trelawney 1.

  

 

 

CORNWALL CUP MATCH

 

22nd Nov 2009

 

THRILLING LOSS

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 3-4 NEWQUAY LADIES

 

Despite their Cup opposition being a league above them, Truro’s ladies are riding high this season and were confident they could upset their visitors.

Truro started well, taking the game straight to Newquay and creating a couple of chances before they had had time to settle, both Kelly Jefferies and Kate Blackburn saw efforts going agonisingly passed the posts. Newquay then turned the screw on Truro’s defence with Chantelle Richards and Jade Taylor in goal having to be at their very best to halt the flow of the attacks. Halfway through the first half, both teams were giving as good as they were getting, when Truro temporarily lost Richards who had injured herself in a slip. Newquay, seeing that Truro’s defence was somewhat distracted, forced a corner routine passed Taylor’s despairing dive. Truro were back on level terms though within a few minutes, Lois Parkinson and Jefferies linked up well to put Laura Harper through, whose shot slotted nicely into the bottom corner over the oncoming keeper.

Truro were certainly gaining the respect of their opponents, and there was some outstanding play from both teams. Capt Coote was leading her girls in defence magnificently, saving 2 shots on the goal line but was powerless to do any more when Newquay again retook the lead just before half time. A corner was first saved by Taylor, the rebound shot by Coote but the third attempt was bundled over the line in a mass of bodies.

The second half saw Truro continuing to look for an equaliser, with the ever dangerous Lianne Keymer and Harper again going close. Newquay thought they’d won the game when they got a third, again at a corner, in the same way as the second goal it took 3 clear shots before the ball crossed the line. Richards was again forced off with a hamstring pull and Marian Taylor was also lost to a hard shot that caught her leg but Truro reorganised, using the last of their subs and got to it.

For the first time, Truro’s defence was able to safely push Newquay back, giving their midfielders more opportunities to get forward. Jefferis, Parkinson and Vicki Iverson all provided the platform for a great ending to this thrilling game. Keymer, Blackburn and Harper began peppering the Newquay goal, sustaining the pressure until Keymer, spotting the keeper leaving her near post, slotted in from the tightest of angles. Truro’s tails were really up now and Newquay’s defence was looking shaky as they continued to twist the knife, Blackburn had a great chance to equalise but fired just over the bar. Anna Barrington, Jefferies and Parkinson seemed to be everywhere, hassling, robbing and creating, even defenders Michelle Hares and Anna Rogers managed to get forward trying to get the strikers that one last chance. Finally, with only a few minutes of normal time left, one of Truro’s corners went slickly enough for Blackburn to gain a well deserved, for her and the team, equaliser.

With only 2 minutes left, Truro thought they’d done enough to take the game to extra time, but Newquay’s excellent centre half drove half the length of the pitch to win a final controversial corner which was heartbreakingly fired passed an unsighted Taylor. Throwing everything they had left into all out attack, Truro just couldn’t find the inside of the goal leaving a very relieved Newquay at the final whistle.

Although a loss, they will be able to defend their Cornwall Plate trophy from last season. Also, if Truro are to be promoted this year they’ll have to face the likes of Newquay each week and on this performance will be relishing that prospect.

Jade Taylor, Marian Taylor, Vicki Iverson, Anna Rogers, Stacey Coote, Chantelle Richards, Michelle Hares, Kelly Jefferies, Lois Parkinson, Anna Barrington, Lianne Keymer, Laura Harper, Kate Blackburn

 

21st Nov 2009

 

CRUISING TO ANOTHER WIN

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 5-0 DARTMOUTH

 

Another weekend of horrendous weather saw Truro ladies take on Dartmouth on Saturday, to start off a busy 2 weeks of league and Cup matches. With a slight tweak of their formation they were looking to stay at the top of Trelawney 1, but it was Dartmouth who started the better. They used the width to their advantage bypassing Truro’s stronger midfield, trying to get around behind the defence. Fortunately Truro weathered this well, with Capt Coote and Michelle Hares standing firm and beginning to use their better organisation to launch some attacks of their own. Lois Parkinson and Kelly Jefferies spread the ball around nicely causing confusion to the visitors, and were rewarded when they forced a succession of corners. It was from one of these that Jefferies finished off with an opportunistic strike after Lianne Keymers first shot was saved.

Truro continued to go from strength to strength dominating long periods of the first half, Laura Harper thought she’d got Truro’s second until the goal was controversially disallowed but they never allowed their heads to drop. Even with all their possession, Truro went into the half time break with only a slender lead.

The second half continued much the same as most of the first, Truro denying possession to Dartmouth and relentlessly probing their defences. When Dartmouth did get the ball out of their half Anna Rogers, Chantelle Richards, Frankie Racquet, Miranda Burton and Marian Taylor looked comfortable in defence, returning the ball to the industrious midfield for the attacks to start again. Half way through the half they finally received their reward after Harper had drawn the defenders out of position and squared for Anna Barrington to tap into an empty net.

This spurred Dartmouth to up their game and for the first time Jade Taylor in goal was put under some pressure. For 5 minutes Truro were held back in their own area but a calm professionalism in their defending allowed them to regain control of the game and from here on in Dartmouth were never a threat again. With 10 minutes to go it was obvious Dartmouth had given all they had to give and Truro started to find gaps at the back. Natalie Oliver was using all her guile to run rings around her marker on the left, while Louise Nicholettes was using a more direct approach on the right to keep the forwards supplied with plenty of ammunition and Dartmouth trapped in their own half. Harper finally got on the score sheet, followed almost immediately by Keymers sweet corner strike. Then in the very last act of the game Truro won a corner on the cusp of the final whistle, which Jefferies ,after much scrambling from several Truro players, was allowed to force over the line for Truro’s fifth to the despairing dives of two defenders.

It was a measure of how far Truro have come in the last 12 months that although they had beaten Dartmouth last year they had struggled to do it, whereas this year they barely needed to get out of second gear. The only downside was that they may have lost the crafty Natalie Oliver with a hamstring pull for a couple of weeks.

Jade Taylor, Stacey Coote, Marian Taylor, Chantelle Richards, Anna Rogers, Miranda Burton, Frankie Racquet, Kelly Jefferies, Lois Parkinson, Natalie Oliver, Louise Nicholettes, Laura Harper, Lianne Keymer, Anna Barrington, Vicki Iverson, Michelle Hares

 

14th Nov 2009

 

TOUGH WIN IN THE WIND

TRURO LADIES 2-1 PLYMOUTH UNI

 

With the horrendous weather conditions on Saturday this was never going to be the prettiest of games for either side. Having won the toss, Plym Uni started with the wind at their backs and took full advantage of this to pin Truro back around their own area. Fortunately Anna Barrington and ‘maid of the match’ Marian Taylor held the back line well, absorbing the pressure and not giving an inch. Truro were having problems getting the ball out of their danger zone, Kelly Jefferies, Vicki Iverson and Natalie Oliver were mobbed by Uni shirts every time they tried to organize a breakout from the middle. With the wind smothering any communication Truro were reduced to a long ball hoof hoping that top scorer Lianne Keymer could get on the end of it. Fortunately Keymer was up to the job, her first attempt at goal just went wide from a tight angle but on her second attempt she reverse flicked the ball into the top corner to give Truro the lead against the run of play.

Uni continued to probe Truro’s defence, getting a series of short corners which Jade Taylor in goal did well to keep out. Just when they thought they’d keep their lead until half time, a Plymouth forward showed a great skill to finally beat Truro’s defence for the equaliser.

The second half proved to be a much better affair for the Cornish girls, with the conditions affecting Uni in the same way as Truro in the first half. The midfield were able to link far better with the rest if the team, giving them their structure back. Kate Blackburn, Alexa Blake and Louise Nichollettes were able to use Truro’s width advantage to push Uni back, and goal scoring opportunities were starting to come thick and fast. Truro’s winner came from a great team goal which started at the back, with good clean passing slicing through Plymouths shape. Blake crossed the ball for Keymer, who’s shot was only partially saved and Jefferies was in the right place to guide the ball across the line.

To their credit Plymouth continued to press and once again the defence was asked to keep Truro’s lead intact, Frankie Racquet, Miranda Burton, Capt Stacey Coote and Michelle Hares all added to Barrington and Taylors ‘backs to the wall’ defending. Truro continued to make chances at the other end but a combination of good goalkeeping and poor shooting kept the Truro supporters on tenterhooks until the final whistle.

Another 3 points keep Truro top of Trelawney 1 for another week but they’ll be hoping for better weather next week when they entertain Dartmouth.

Jade Taylor, Anna Barrington, Marian Taylor, Stacey Coote, Michelle Hares, Miranda Burton, Frankie Racquet, Vicki Iverson, Kelly Jefferies, Natalie Oliver, Louise Nichollettes, Kate Blackburn, Lianne Keymer, Alexa Blake.

 

7th Nov 2009

 

WINNING STREAK GOES, BUT STILL UNBEATEN

BODMIN LADIES 2-2 TRURO LADIES

 

First versus fourth was this week’s battle for unbeaten Truro ladies, away to newly promoted Bodmin. Both teams were clearly up for it and pushed hard from the outset, though whilst Truro were still settling in, Bodmin created the first real chance. A break from a Bodmin forward caused a danger to the Truro defence; Anna Barrington worked hard to stop the forward and used her pace to channel her wide of the goal. A baffling decision by the umpire at the other end of the pitch then awarded a penalty flick to the Bodmin forward from which they converted for a very controversial 1-0 lead. After this shock, Truro ladies, were more determined and created some very good hockey. Truro were rewarded for their efforts when after numerous short corners, Alexa Blake found Emmie Partington in space who hit a cracking ball into the area for Lianne Keymer to convert to bring the scores Level.

With all the possession, the Truro ladies looked good but just lacked the finishing touch with the Bodmin keeper having a good game. Going into the second half, Truro knew they had to start playing their own game. Lois Parkinson, Kelly Jefferies and Natalie Oliver created numerous attacks and held the ball well in the midfield for Blake, new signing, Louise Nichollettes and Keymer to run on to.

After even more pressure, Truro were caught out by another break by Bodmin’s speedy forward where some last ditch saves from Chantel Richards and Jade Taylor in goal stopped the ball from crossing the line. The Bodmin ladies were rewarded with a short corner which they converted with a well worked strike to bring the score to 2-1 to the home side. The heavens opened with 15 minutes of the game to go and Truro were tackling and pressing hard for every ball to get the equalizer.

With Truro getting on top of their opponents, the umpires decided to be controversial again, Blake was carded for a ‘non verbal show of dissention’, while Keymer was mystifyingly sin binned from 50 metres away! With only 10 players, Truro held strong and kept the ball well. The defence worked hard to move the ball around the back and create chances down the wings using Stacie Coote and Anna Rogers well.

When Keymer returned to the pitch in the last 5 minutes of the game, Truro found a new lease of life and some good passing between Michelle Hares and Partington found Parkinson in space who made a darting run into the area and was given a short corner due to an awful tackle. A well worked short corner resulted in a lovely goal for maid of the match Parkinson, bringing the scores level.

Truro proved why they are unbeaten and pushed for the winner showing excellent skills and fitness. Unfortunately Truro ran out of time in this frustrating game.

 

Team : Jade Taylor, Stacie Coote, Anna Barrington, Anna Rogers, Marian Taylor, Chantel Richards, Michelle hares, Laura Harper, Kelly Jefferies, Lois Parkinson, Natalie Oliver, Emmie Partington, Alexa Blake, Louise Nichollettes, Lianne Keymer, Zoe………?

 

24th Oct 2009

 

4 OUT OF 4

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 3-1 TORBAY

Yet again Truro faced one of their main promotion rivals, the third in 3 weeks, and yet again they out fought and out thought them to keep their golden streak going.

Having learnt a hard lesson the previous week in not starting well, Truro came out all guns blazing, launching attack after attack and not giving Torbay a moment to compose themselves. Alexa Blake was running rings around her markers, and it was from one of her crosses that Truro scored the opener. Star striker Lianne Keymer was unlucky as her first time strike was brilliantly saved but ‘Maid of the Match’ Nicki Bain claimed the rebound to hammer the ball passed the stranded keeper. Meanwhile at the back Chantel Richards and Anna Barrington were snuffing out any threat to Anna Collingwoods goal and providing the platform for the industrious midfield. However, a brief lack of communication in defence saw Torbay gain parity very much against the run of play with a lucky deflected goal. For the rest of the half, Torbay rode their luck a bit and despite constant pressure from Truro, their defence kept them in the game.

The 2nd half saw Truro carry on where they’d left off, Lois Parkinson and Keymer both had shots scrambled off the goal line. With it looking like Truro might have to settle for a draw, the midfield of Emmie Partington, Kelly Jefferies and Bain grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and soon Truro were back in front. Inevitably it was Keymer, letting fly with a screamer of a shot that left the keeper rooted to the spot and regaining the lead for the Cornish side. Torbay then went to pieces; with 2 of their players sin binned they surrendered any hope of winning the match. Meanwhile Truro were not going to settle for a tight win, wanting to completely kill of the game. Captain Coote was buzzing down the right flank working well with Blake to open up the stubborn Devon defence. From one of these attacks, a cheeky tap in begged for somebody to put the ball away and up popped Jefferies to do the honours and guarantee Truro the 3 points.

 

A long injury list and absences going into the game had made Truro doubt their strength against a serious side, but the squad showed the strength in depth they now have. With no game next week they can enjoy the week off knowing that they’re 100% record is safe at least until they meet newly promoted Bodmin in 2 weeks.

Anna Rogers (GK), Chantel Richards, Emmie Partington, Kelly Jefferies, Stacie Coote, Natalia Olivier, Marian Taylor, Lois Parkinson, Nikki Bain, Alexa Blake, Lianne Keymer, Anna Barrington, Vicky Ivison, Miranda Burton, Michelle Hares

 

17th Oct 2009

BITTERSWEET WIN

 

Oakhampton 3- 4 Truro Ladies

 

After a tough game but great win the previous week, Truro ladies travelled to Oakhampton with the aim of defending their unbeaten record and staying top of their league. With both teams sporting a new look side the game proved to be both tough and exciting.

The initial 5minutes of the game gave the Truro Ladies a shock, with Oakhampton proving to be a much stronger team than last year and with some great attacking power. Whilst Truro were still settling into the game and finding their feet in their positions Oakhampton put immense pressure on their defence. Some great tackling from Stacie Coote and Anna Rogers kept Oakhampton at bay for a while but they almost inevitably they opened the scoring when one player showed great skill to score a solo effort goal. This was a wake-up call Truro needed, the team came together working well to create some goal scoring opportunities and take the pressure off the defence. With some great wide runs and crosses into the ‘D’ from Alexa Blake and Laura Harper, their hard work paid off with a short corner, from which Truro scored with a powerful and accurate strike from Lianne Keymer.

The rest of the first half was dominated by Truro with a lot of goal scoring opportunities and only last ditch goal line saves from the Oakhampton kept Truro from scoring many goals. With solid support from Emmie Partington and Natalie Oliver in the mid-field, Truro kept up their efforts and were rewarded when Blake scored first and then when Kelly Jefferies made a fantastic break, offloading the ball and finally being rewarded for her efforts with her first of the season.

The second half was more of an even affair to start with, with Marian Taylor and Chantel Richards linking well with Jefferies and Partington to clear any danger that the Oakhampton created. Both teams had scoring opportunities but it was Oakhampton who capitalised, scoring from a short corner. Neither team gave up and battled to the end with Lois Partington making several effective runs but also some immense tackles. With Truro leading 3-2, Miranda Burton and Vicky Ivison had to make some crucial tackles to halt the Oakhampton attacks but once again a solo effort from an Oakhampton player scored the equalizer. With only 10minutes of the game left, the pressure on Truro was still immense and a goal line save with her stick from Truro goal keeper Jade Taylor, seemed to be the trigger Truro needed to hunt down that winning goal. Harper who had been at the heart of all Truro’s attacking moves, broke away from her markers before crossing for Nikki Bain and Susan Brown, again Okehampton cleared desperately off the goal line before Blake’s reverse stick shot left the keeper in despair for the winner. Truro held out the last few minutes of pressure to take another win, but just before time Harper was carried from the pitch with a badly sprained ankle and will miss next weeks match.

Next Saturday, Truro host Torbay, another top of the table team at home, once again trying to defend the unbeaten record.

The Team: Jade Taylor, Marian Taylor, Anna Rogers, Chantel Richards, Stacey Coote, Vicky Ivison, Miranda Burton, Emmie Partington, Natalie Oliver, Kelly Jefferies, Nikki Bain, Lois Parkinson, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Lianne Keymer, Susan Brown

 

 

10th Oct 2009

 

CLASSY LADIES KEEP WINNING

TRURO LADIES 2 – 1 MANNAMEAD 1st’s

 

Truro came up against one of their toughest rival’s of the year in Mannamead 1st’s, who were the only team last season who remained unbeaten by Truro. With their flying start so far this term, they knew this was their first real test of the new look side and how they’d progressed.

With the new formation working a treat and Truro hungry for the ball, they dominated the game from start to finish. When Mannamead did get the ball they tried to put pressure on Truro defence by trying to squeeze through the middle of the pitch, but Truro were good at breaking up these moves. Emmie Partington was solid in the middle, orchestrating the fast probing moves that have been so devastating for Truro this year. Alexa Blake and Lianne Keymer worked hard on the right getting quick balls into the area, creating many opportunities at goal. Sensing a goal was overdue they started to push harder, Laura Harper made the break from mid field with her quick dribbling skills managing to put in a trademark thunderbolt from a narrow angle to give Truro the lead. Mannamead tried to come back and with the slightest slip from the Truro defence did manage to get a shot on target but that was soon pushed high over the net by goalkeeper Jade Taylor, who kept Truro ahead.

Truro were awarded a few penalty shorts and managed to bag themselve’s another great goal with a straight strike from Lianne Keymer which deflected off the keepers foot and punched into the top right hand corner.

The 2nd half was a far more even affair with Mannamead more resilient and Truro’s defence were put under a lot more pressure. Chantal Richards and Lois Parkinson, who played amazing at the back managed to keep Mannamead away from the Truro area, having great support from the midfield with Anna Rogers and Captain Stacie Coote showing great speed and determination to get the ball out of the Truro half. With Kelly Jefferies and Natalie Oliver making good use of space, they continued to create opportunities, piling into the Mannamead defence, having numerous attempts at goal but the opposition keeper somehow managed to keep them at bay.

Mannamead weren’t going give up without a fight and when Truro seemed to relax a bit they pounced, with their best players working in tandem, managed to get themselves into the Truro area and got off an unbelievable strike which flew high past the defence heads and hit the back of the net.

This wake up call pushed Truro to kill the game off, which they nearly did, dominating the final 10 minutes. Kate Blackburns shot came closest, hitting the post, the keeper’s helmet and then the underside of the bar but somehow not crossing the line.

As it was, Truro were more than happy to come away with a win over one of their biggest promotion rivals to keep them top of the league. Next week they are away to Okehampton whose results so far seem to indicate that they’re not the soft touch of last season but hoping to keep their perfect record intact.

The team: Jade Taylor, Chantal Richards, Lois Parkinson, Stacey Coote, Anna Rogers, Kelly Jefferies, Emmie Partington, Natalie Oliver, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Lianne Keymer, Kate Blackburn, Vicky Ivison, Anna Barrington, Susan Brown, Louise Nicholettos

3rd Oct 2009

LADIES SHOW TRURO MEN HOW IT’S DONE

MANNAMEAD 2nd’s 0-7 TRURO LADIES

 

Two wins out of two with ten goals scored so far, showed that Truro ladies are meaning business this year after just missing out on promotion last season. Another Truro side that was away this week, this time only as far as Plymouth to play Mannamead 2nd’s.

 

As has been great about their play in the last few months, they hit the ground running, applying pressure to the opposition defense and were rewarded within 5 minutes with a goal from an excellent strike from Laura Harper. This opened the floodgates and with some silky play in midfield, ‘Maid of the Match’ Lois Parkinson stuck from top of the area, where Harper tucked it under the keeper as she dived for the save.

The 3rd was an outstanding piece of individual skill from forward Lianne Keymer whose speed and agility outpaced the Mannamead defense allowing her to slot coolly home.

 

In the second half Mannamead tried to fight back, however were thwarted every time with excellent teamwork from Kelly Jeffries, Robertson and Michelle Hares, which allowed Stacey Coote, Anna Rogers, Farrant and Frankie Racquet to apply the pressure. Some excellent passing with the midfielders Harper and Nicki Bain allowed the forwards to outsmart Mannamead, enforcing errors which resulted in a short corner, slotted home again by Keymer.

 

Despite Mannameads keeper’s best efforts 4 wasn’t enough for Truro and through some superb play in midfield Bain reverse flicked it towards goal allowing Marian Taylor to deflect it into the net.This was followed by another short corner and goal number 3 for Keymer. Goal number 7 and Keymer’s 4th, occurred in the final minutes of the game when a tired Mannamead defense allowed her space to flick it home.

Truro entertains Mannameads 1st team at home next week for their first big test of this season.

 

 

 

 

26th Sept 2009

 

LADIES SET THE PACE

TRURO LADIES 5 v 1 CARADON 2nds

 

After a great preseason warm up, Truro started the season with this emphatic win over Caradon 2nd’s. From start to finish Caradon couldn’t handle Truro’s superior pace and organisation, they dominated the first half with some slick passing from defence to attack leading to 3 well work goals by Lianne Keymer, Alexa Blake and Kate Blackburn.

The defence dealt well with rare Caradon possession, snuffing out any threat the Jade Taylor’s goal, with some great individual performances by Chantelle Richards, Anna Rogers, Lois Parkinson and Stacey Coote.

Truro continued strongly in the second half but Caradon kept battling and Truro made the mistake of taking their foot off the gas, paying for this when Caradon sneaked a goal from the short corner. Truro picked themselves up and gave the visiting team a torrid time in the last 10 minutes, Laura Harper and Susan Brown both scored brilliant individual goals.

Truro hope they can continue this form throughout the season and are looking forward to their first away game at Manamead next week.

 

 

 19th Sept 2009

CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC

TRURO LADIES 3-2 TAVISTOCK

 

Truro ladies finished their pre season programme with a real test against Tavistock who play in the league above them. Having had a successful time so far with a final and semi final tournament placings in previous weeks, this was the last chance for players to play themselves into the side, as well as a few final experiments from Capt Coote and Coach Caton.

The team looked a little unsure at the start with many players trying out new positions. It took a good ten minutes to get into the game but by then Tavistock had already taken advantage, breaking down the defence and getting a good strike off into the bottom corner of the goal. Fortunately the umpire had spotted something in the build up and disallowed the goal, but it gave Truro the wake up call they needed.

 

Truro stepped up a notch all over the pitch, with some brilliant runs from forwards Lianne Keymer and Kate Blackburn terrorizing the Tavistock defenders. Eventually a well earned goal came, starting at the back with a lovely move through ‘Maid of the Match’ Emmie Partington. She made a great run filtering the ball to Lois Parkinson, good vision spotted Keymers run, who deflected it to Blackburn for her to smash the ball high into the roof of the net.

 

Increasing confidence saw Truro use their width well through Parkinson and Alexa Blake who made darting runs and crosses to pressurize the Tavistock defence. Natalie Oliver was working tirelessly in her midfield roll, making very dangerous turns and passes worrying the Tavistock defence. It was a ball from Oliver that gave Truro the next goal passing to the versatile Laura Harper who easily passed 4 Tavistock players to take a shot at the top of the 'D' giving the keeper no chance with a thunderous strike.

 

Truro took their foot off the pedal a little and allowed Tavistock to get a goal back just before half time.

 

A few changes were made at half time and Truro took another few minutes to get into the game. The middle three, Harper, Nikki Bain and Partington, took the game to Tavistock holding and distributing to the teams advantage. The forwards worked tirelessly in finding space for the halves to pass into however too much pressure upfront lead to a breakdown and tired legs could not get back to help the defence in time. Frankie Raquetand Chantell Richards and Stacie Coote were left marking 5 players, breaking through catching keeper Jade Taylor off guard and leveled the score line to 2-2.

 

Truro regained the lead with a perfectly executed move. Richards at the back found Kelly Jefferies, who worked a lovely series of one twos with Susan Brown down the right, Brown finally pulled the ball back to Keymer who completed the team effort with a lovely sweep goal.

 

The Truro Ladies team are looking impressive so far and will be looking to improve on last seasons near miss at promotion with a place in the South division next year.

 

Team: Jade Taylor (GK), Frankie Raquet, Miranda Burton, Chantelle Richards, Stacie Coote, Kelly Jefferies, Emmie Partington, Nikki Bain, Lois Parkinson, Natalie Oliver, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Marian Taylor, Susan Brown, Kate Blackburn, Lianne Keymer.

 

ANOTHER GREAT DAY IN THE SUN

Caradon 7’s Tournament 6th Sept 2009

Truro Ladies kicked off their pre season fixtures with a memorable trip to the Caradon 7’s tournament, after last years inaugural visit, Truro returned with 2 sides that had a good mix of experience and youth and had high hopes for the day.

Separated into different pools they had the opportunity to support each other with the ‘B’ team kicking things off against hosts Caradon 1’s. Included in the side were several younger players with limited senior experience though from their performance it didn’t show. Showing no fear of their illustrious opponents they gave as good as they got, making for a cracking match and were delighted to walk away with a 0-0 draw.

This result buoyed both teams, with the ‘A’ team on next, who dominated their match against Caradon 2’s winning comfortably. Both teams won their next sets of matches with Lianne Keymer and Kate Blackburn excelling up front, Natalie Oliver and Laura Nauman showed what fantastic players they have become dominating their midfields in each side. Truro A continued to win, only conceding 1 goal in and finished their group with a perfect record, Truro B drew the third game and unfortunately lost a tight 4th but were certainly not disappointed with their performances.

The A team then found themselves up against local rivals Falmouth, who play several leagues above Truro, in the semi final. As expected this turned out to be an exhausting battle with both sets of defences outstanding to repel waves of attacks. Eventually Keymers pace, Olivers guile and Anna Barringtons strength combined to allow Blackburn to force home the only goal of the game to put Truro into the final.

Unfortunately their opposition were a strong experienced Newquay side, who had had an easier time against Caradon 1’s, and were quickly on top. Just as Truro were getting themselves back into the game, they lost Barrington to a twisted ankle and never really recovered, eventually losing 4-0.

Regardless of the result of the final, this was a tremendous day for the ladies from Truro. In the past 3 years they have made some huge strides forward, with this weekend being another milestone, having reached their second final in less than a year. Also the attitudes and performances of the younger ladies were a credit to themselves, making future team selections a lot harder for Capt Coote.

Next Saturday sees 2 Truro sides in the County tournament where they will be looking to continue the spirit and success of this weekend.

The ‘A’ team was Stacey Coote (Capt), Natalie Oliver, Nikki Bain, Lianne Keymer, Marian Taylor, Anna Barrington, Vicky Guy, Emmie Partington, and Jade Taylor (Gk).

The ‘B’ team was Anna Rogers (GK), Kate Blackburn, Viv Cobner (Capt), MirandaBurton, Frankie Raquet, Laura Nauman, Milly Thomas, Lindsay Parsons, Beth Murphy, Milly Trevail

 

 

WORTHY FINAL

 

LADIES CORNWALL PLATE FINAL

PENZANCE 0-1 TRURO LADIES

The victorious Ladies & their Plate whilst they were still sober.

Few finals of any competition life up to their promise, this though was an exception. Although a league apart, Penzance are only 5 or 6 places higher than Truro, and while Truro having been enjoying their best season, Penzance’s year has been rather mediocre, so this was the setting for a great game.

Both sides sought to stamp their authority on the game from the opening whistle with some strong tackling going in, and no quarter being given. Penzance had the first few chances before Truro had some time pressuring the opposition defence, however, as the half went on Penzance were able to utilize their greater experience to gradually dominate the game. This was not to say that Truro were out of it, with their greater pace they were always a threat on the break, which kept the Blue’s defenders on their toes. It was on one of these breaks that Alexa Blake beat several players to pick out Lianne Keymer at the top of the area, who fired the ball between the keeper’s legs to open the scoring.
Penzance renewed their attacks and at times the Truro girls were forced into some desperate defending, several goal line clearances were made but Michelle Hares, Laura Harper, Miranda Burton, Stacey Coote, Anna Collingwood and keeper Jade Taylor all had outstanding games, simply refusing to be beaten. Having preserved their lead under the strongest of pressure, Truro were very glad to hear the half time whistle.

Do you think she's happy about this?

A very fired up Truro resumed the 2nd half, this time keeping Penzance on the back foot, with Keymer, Suz Brown and Lois Parkinson all getting close to extending that lead as the Blue’s defence were forced into their own desperate measures. The turning point in the game though was when Keymer was forced to retire with a broken finger, leaving Truro without their main strike weapon. With this threat gone, Penzance got themselves back on top again, but more heroics from Becky Frost, Kelly Cadwell and Nicki Bain in the centre made life difficult for the Penzance forwards. Parkinson, filling in for Keymer up front, proved that she could also still be a threat, especially by being partnered with the astute Natalie Oliver. Despite the sheer quantity of shots raining in on their goal Truro were unwilling to give an inch, at one point having all but one player back in their own area.
Penzance thought they’d snatched a draw when they finally got the ball into the Truro goal, but the full time whistle was being blown as the shot was taken, to leave a very tired but very happy Truro side the victors in their first ever final.

Truro Ladies + champagne = they're happy

The ‘Invincible Squad’
Stacey Coote (Capt), Jade Taylor (GK), Miranda Burton, Michelle Hares, Anna Collingwood, Laura Harper, Suz Brown, Alexa Blake, Kelly Cadwell, Becky Frost, Lois Parkinson, Natalie Oliver, Lianne Keymer, Nicki Bain

 

TRURO DENIED

TRURO LADIES 0-2 MANNAMEAD

Knowing that they had started the previous days game so poorly, Truro were determined not to repeat what could have been a fatal mistake against this strong Mannamead team. Hitting the ground running, they tore at the Plymouth side’s defence, with Lianne Keymer and partner Laura Harper getting several early chances. Truro were looking for big performances and were getting them, Lois Parkinson, Kelly Cadwell, Becky Frost, Alexa Blake and Suz Brown all making telling contributions, running Mannamead ragged and setting up chance after chance. The most impressive display of the day though went to the Mannamead keeper who was single handedly keeping her side alive. On another day Truro could have had this game won easily, just with the opportunities they created in the first half, but the ball just would not go into the back of the goal.

 

They continued in the same vein at the start of the 2nd half, Vicki Guy and Keymer having great chances that were again denied by the keeper. Although the emphasis had been on the forwards, the defence had done well in breaking up the Mannamead attacks and holding them at arms length from Anna Collingwoods goal. All this changed though when Truro were caught out pressing too high and a speedy forward got behind them to leave them a very undeserved goal down. Now having to chase the game, after seeing so many chances to of wrapped this game up having been saved, they had to push even higher with the risk of being caught again. This inevitably happened in an almost identical set of circumstances they conceded a 2nd from a breakaway. Truro continued to attack hoping now that a draw could be at least salvaged and although the passion was certainly there, time wasn’t.

 

This is the first game that Truro have lost this year, which goes to show the improvements that they’ve made, and were even more fortunate that rivals Dart lost to Plymouth Uni, leaving them in 2nd place. Truro are away for their remaining fixtures, including the County Plate final next Sunday at Penzance astro park.

 

 

NERVOUS WIN

TRURO LADIES 6-4 OKEHAMPTON

After the previous weekend’s heroics, Truro ladies knew it was going to be difficult to sustain that standard with so many games in such a short space of time. Perhaps it was over confidence from their previous encounter with Okehampton who they’d beaten 8-0, but the team just couldn’t get into the game for the first ten minutes. An almost unchanged team from last week that had fought Dart to a standstill, was rocked onto its heels with all the play coming from the visitors. Conceeding several short corners, it was unsurprising when Okehampton scored passed an unsighted Anna Collingwood, but this at least was a catalyst for them to shake themselves from their lethargy. The three areas of the pitch started to knit their passes together, retaining possession, players were moving into spaces and the whole flow of the game changed with Truro starting to get on top of their opposition.  

Thankfully this started the flow of goals for Truro, the equaliser came from a penalty corner which was passed to Lois Parkinson who smashed the ball into the backboard. With their confidence restored, they really took the game to Okehampton. Lianne Keymer, aiming for the season’s top scorer, used her pace to devastating effect, which the defence couldn’t handle to rifle in another 2 great goals, while strike partner Anna Barrington who has consistently slotted away goals all year picked up another from a rebound. The visitors tried to get themselves out from Truro’s domination, but the defence of Stacie Coote, Michelle Hares, Frankie Raquet and Eleanor Pierce worked hard around the back to get the play out to the wings where Alexa Blake and Susan Brown were looking hungry for the ball. It was therefore a satisfied team that went into the break with a healthy lead.

Truro again were caught napping on the restart when one of the Okehampton forwards managed to force her way passed several Truro players to score a second, giving them some hope. However, Truro knuckled down, regrouped, and managed to pick up the game again, Blake and Brown kept up their penetrating runs, with Brown getting a 5th. Natalie Oliver got the 6th from a well worked short corner and at this point, with 10 minutes left to play and leading 6-2, Truro started to relax and think about the following days encounter. Okehampton though had different ideas, hitting Truro with everything they had left, scoring a quick well worked goal that opened up the defence. A 4th was scored somewhat contentiously, as Truro believed it had been hit from outside the area, but was allowed to stand. Fortunately for the Cornish girls, the Devon side ran out of time before they ran out of goals.

 

SETTING THE STANDARD

 

TRURO 2-1 DART

 

Two season defining games, two season defining performances.

 

For Truro Ladies 1^st team, this weekend would see all their hopes shattered or finally give them the self belief that can be such a fickle mistress.

 

Round 1 – 1^st Vs 3^rd In The League

 

First up was Dart in the league, who had led Trelawney 1 for most all season and had given Truro a real lesson earlier in the year, if they lost the return match their promotion ambitions would be over.

 

Truro knew what was riding on this game but began uncharacteristically nervously, their normally good passing was all over the place, with Dart capitalising on the mistakes to immediately put the Cornish girls under pressure. Dart were very good at denying Truro the space to move the ball in and invariably they were pushed further and further back. Forcing fouls by the normally reliable defence, Dart won a series of short corners which culminated in them scoring passed an unsighted Jade Taylor in goal. This acted as a wake up call for Truro who found their confidence again and decided that they wanted to show the visitors just how much they’d improved. The midfield started creating things, the forwards found space and the defence got bloody minded. By half way through the first period, the game was looking very even with Kelly Cadwell, Becky Frost and Lois Parkinson in the middle holding their own and getting the two forwards of Anna Barrington and Leanne Keymer away for some probing attacks. The two wingers drove hard at the Dart defence, Alexa Blake and Suz Brown showing all their twisty, mazy runs and tight ball control. Dart were by no means out of it and continued to threaten but Capt Coote, Michelle Hares, Laura Harper and Laura Embling managed to hold them at bay, with Taylor proving a rock behind them.

Truro were beginning to get more and more opportunities in front of the visitors goal, with chances from Barrington and Parkinson well saved, but it was Frost who broke the Dart defence when she leapt onto a bobbling clearance to smack the ball home at head height. More was to come only 5 minutes later, the introduction of Kate Blackburn had added a more physical side to Truro’s forward play, this paid off when she somehow managed to burst through three defenders to hammer the ball passed a rooted keeper for the lead. Going into the break Truro looked confident and dangerous.

 

The 2^nd half saw both teams go at each other hammer and tongs, some of which wasn’t always pretty but was totally committed. Fresh players gave the Dart defence something new to worry about with their extra pace, Vicki Guy, Keymer and Blackburn all having great opportunities to extend the lead that were either well saved or just wide. Natalie Oliver and Nicki Bain added their steel to the middle, continuing to protect the back line all the way through to the final whistle.

 

In the end, fitness and spirit paid off, with Truro just seeming to want this more than Dart, who on another day might well of gone back to Devon with the spoils. This was by far the best performance from the ladies not just all season but since their reinvention 5 years ago, and will now be the standard that they will have to aspire to.

 

Although Truro continues in 3^rd, they are only 1pt behind Dart, 3 behind new leaders Plym Uni, but with a game in hand on both plus a far superior goal difference, know that whatever happens is still in their hands.

 

Stacey Coote, Michelle Hares, Laura Harper, Laura Embling, Suz Brown, Alexa Blake, Becky Frost, Natalie Oliver, Kelly Cadwell, Lois Parkinson, Vicki Guy, Kate Blackburn, Anna Barrington, Leanne Keymer, Nicki Bain, Jade Taylor.

 

 

 

Round 2 – Cornwall Ladies Plate semi final

 

FIRST FINAL

 

TRURO LADIES 1^st’s 4 – 1 MORGARROWS

 

After Saturday’s exploits it was always going to be a worry that there would be a certain ‘hangover’ effect from such a big game, and that this performance would be an anti climax. Although it didn’t quite reach those heights of exceptional play, it didn’t lack any conviction, with some players who’d missed the league fixture wanting to show that they were as good as any on the previous day.

 

Truro had already met Morgarrows once this season in a league encounter, beating them 4-1, and were keen to repeat the affair. Unlike the previous day, it was Truro that were first out of the blocks with Cadwell stepping up for the broken down Frost, imperious in her passing and dogged in the tackle, allowing Bain and Oliver time and room to show off their creativity. Blake and Brown again terrorised the visiting defenders, getting behind them to try to set up one of the forwards, whose pace was causing Morgarrows all sorts of problems. Blake set up the first goal, driving hard down the right, committing several defenders and the keeper before laying off to Cadwell whose sweetly struck shot nestled nicely in the corner of the goal. Truro’s tails were up and Barrington, who had been so selfless the previous day, converted one for herself after pouncing on a rebound from Browns shot. All was looking well until a mix up in defence allowed Morgarrows a short corner just before half time, somehow they managed to scramble the ball over the line, giving themselves a bit of hope for the 2^nd half.

 

Where the first half left the defence as virtual spectators most of the time, the second threw them right into the arena, with Truro under long periods of pressure. Taylor, Hares, Coote, Harper, Anna Collingwood, Miranda Burton and Francesca Raquet stood strong, repelling everything that the St.Ives side could throw at them. By attacking so high up the pitch Morgarrows left themselves vulnerable to a swift counter and this was provided ably by Keymer in the move of the match. From just inside her area, Hares found Cadwell in the middle who quickly spotted Harper in space, Keymer had made a great run to get behind her markers and was perfectly found by Harpers pin point pass, her speed took her clear of the defenders before slotting under the advancing keeper to give Truro some breathing space.

Morgarrows had no options left but to go for broke, and again Keymer made them pay with another breakaway goal, getting her 2^nd and Truro’s 4^th. After this Morgarrows heads dropped as they realised that they were not going to break down the wall in front of the Truro goal, and had no answers to Keymer or Barrington’s pace. Truro finished the game with a short corner that Bain shaved off the outside of the post, but will be delighted to of reached their first ever final, especially after two cracking performances from a high pressure weekend.

 

Jade Taylor, Stacey Coote, Miranda Burton, Francesca Raquet, Michelle Hares, Anna Collingwood, Laura Harper, Kelly Cadwell, Natalie Oliver, Suz Brown, Alexa Blake, Leanne Keymer, Anna Barrington, Nicki Bain.

 

Truro will play Penzance ladies 1^st’s in the Plate Final on the 22^nd March at Penzance astro park, Truro men’s 1^st’s will play Bodmin 1^st’s in the Cup Final later that same day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 8 – 0 MANNAMEAD 2nd’s

 

Having not played a league game for the last 2 weeks, Truro had to work hard this week to get back into the swing of things, if they wanted to come away with a win and continue pressing for promotion.

Having played Mannanmead 2nds early part of the season and beaten them 7-0, Truro knew they had to pull a performance out of the bag if they wanted to equal the earlier performance. And that’s exactly what they did.

The 2 weeks off had energized the ladies, and they took the game by the scruff of the neck straightaway, completely dominating their opposition and pinging the ball around beautifully. Becky Frost, Kelly Cadwell, and Lois Parkinson in the centre, had midfield totally in their grip, and were able to spray the ball around at their leisure. Alexa Blake and Suz Brown were able to exploit their speed down the wings and get behind the Manamead defence, creating havoc. Anna Barrington along with fellow strike partner Leanne Keymer, were in the meantime causing the increasingly desperate defence all sorts of problems with their fast physical play. It was no surprise when Truro scored, the only question was – who was it going to be? Anna Barrington capitalized on a good work by Blake, who had drawn off most of the defenders before slipping the ball to her with only the keeper to beat for the opener. Once the first goal was in it started the floodgates, Parkinson got her first a few minutes later, pouncing on a rebound from the keeper to sneak the ball in the right corner. Her 2nd and Truro’s 3rd, was similar, though this time she mashed the rebound into the other corner. After all her hard work, it was only fair that Blake got on the score sheet, adding a 4th , when she spotted that the keeper had come off her near post, with a cracking strike from an acute angle. Just before half time, Barrington added her 2nd, this time with an edge of the circle shot.

Following the restart, Truro found that Mannamead came out a far more determined, making some inroads into the Truro half and somewhat restricting the freedom the midfield had had. This did at least bring the previously underused defence into the game, with Capt Coote marshalling her girls well, especially Miranda Burton and Frankie Raquet, who had stepped up from the 2nd’and showed that there is plenty of talent waiting in the wings. Meanwhile at the other end, Leanne Keymer, who after selflessly setting up a numerous efforts, finally got one of her own, smashing the ball into the back netting. Vicki Guy, set Kelly Cadwell up for Truro’s 7th, and Suz Brown picked up number 8 after the keeper had spilled Laura Harpers thunderbolt.

Truro have a very busy programme ahead in the next few weeks, hosting league leaders Dart next Saturday, then Morgarrows in the Cornwall plate semi-final on Sunday, and willing be hoping to continue the skill and the spirit of this game forward for them.

Anna Collingwood (GK), Stacie Coote (C), Michelle Hares, Miranda Burton, Francesca Raquet, Rebecca Frost, Kelly Cadwell, Natalie Oliver, Lois Parkinson, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Lianne Keymer, Anna Barrington, Vicky Guy, Susan Brown

 

SEMI FINAL BECKONS

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 2 – 1 BUDE LADIES 2nd’s

With two gap weeks in their league programme, Truro were back to contesting their place in the County Plate with this quarter final against Bude 2nd’s. Having already well beaten Bude in the league previously, Truro were surprisingly light on players with many regulars absent due to family commitments at the start of half term.

Despite this, Truro totally dominated the first 20 minutes, Kelly Cadwell, Lois Parkinson and Becky Frost had absolute mastery of the midfield, spreading the ball around imperiously, and recovering the ball when Bude had rare moments of possession. Alexa Blake was sent on a mazy run on the right before pulling the ball back to Parkinson, whose shot was only partially stopped by the Bude keeper before Suz Brown scrambled the ball over the line for Truro’s first. Within a few minutes they had doubled their lead when Michelle Hares got Leanne Keymer behind the Bude defence, who showed fantastic speed and poise to sucker the keeper prior to smashing the ball into the net.
It was all looking so good for the city girls, who were looking like they’d win at a cantor, and then for an inexplicable reason they seemed to go to sleep. Instead of passing, they started to run with the ball and got caught out, and where Bude had not got into the Truro half, they were now pushing Truro’s defence back to their own goal. Jade Taylor in the Truro goal was getting called upon more and more as Bude grew in confidence but was unable to stop Bude scoring when their pacey forward finally managed to get behind Capt Coote and her girls in defence.

The half time break allowed Truro to calm and reorganise themselves, restarting in a much more businesslike way. Although they never again dominated as they had done in the early part of the match, Truro shut the door to the Bude forwards who got nowhere near Taylors goal again with Coote, Anna Collingwood and Miranda Burton doing a fantastic job in quashing any threats. Natalie Oliver, just returning from injury, Keymer , Blake and Brown did come close to extending Truro’s lead but some good keeping held the result down, and although Bude kept trying to penetrate Truro’s defensive shield, the 2nd half was a fairly uneventful affair.

 

Still, it will be Truro that goes forward to the semi final against either Penzance 2nd’s or Morgarrows, and they will at least know that a better performance will be needed for that game.

 

PLATE QUARTER FINAL

 

Our ladies 1st's are up against league rivals Bude 2nd's in the quarter final.

This is a home fixture at Truro School on 15th Feb (time to be confirmed). Please contact Stacey of your availability, and remember that with no ladies game on that weekend, the 2nd's would like your support in Penzance on the Saturday in their quarter final - see their page for details. 

 

HARD WIN, GREAT FEELING

TRURO LADIES 1st’s 2 – 1 PLYM VALLEY 2nd’s

With the absence of several regulars Truro drafted in some new faces for this crucial Trelawney 1 match, and with this unfamiliar side they also changed their formation to try to get better penetration in the opposition’s half. To start with these changes seemed to confuse rather than help the home side, with silly errors in passing that enabled Plym Valley to break down Truro’s moves and mount their own. Plym Valley knew they were up against a strong team, who still have promotion ambitions, and were determined to put the pressure on. Truro had few chances in the first half and despite some heroics in midfield from the pairing of Becky Frost and Kelly Cadwell, only some stout defending from Stacey Coote, Michelle Hares and debutant Miranda Burton, as well as some decisive goal keeping from Anna Collingwood kept the scores level at the break.

At halftime, Truro put there heads together, changed the formation back round to normal, this paid immediate dividends at the restart with Truro driving Valley back and working their defenders hard. Things were looking so much better, with deep incisive runs from Alexa Blake and Marion Turner on either flank, a succession of chances came and went before Suz Brown pushed out to Frost who unleashed a shot from a short corner that buried itself nicely in the bottom corner of the goal. Truro continued the pressure but Valley still held, and caught them out with a sucker blow, when on a rare break they managed to get a corner of their own. A strike just as good as Frosts levelled the scores but wound up Truro, who having dominated this half were not about to settle for the draw.
With 20 minutes to go, Truro put everything into trying to gain a valuable win. A quick shuffle in personnel stifled the Valley attack, with Vicky Ivison marking their centre forward out of the game. Cadwell, Lois Parkinson and Anna Barrington were causing Valley’s defence all sorts of problems, pushing them further and further back. With almost Valley’s entire team in their own area, great skill was being shown by Vicki Guy, Leanne Keymer and Brown as they forced the keeper into a succession of great saves. The deadlock was finally broken with a break from Blake on the right got her behind the defence and a run in on goal, with several defenders bearing down on her she coolly slipped the ball to Keymer, who had snuck in unmarked. A great dummy sent the keeper one way while Keymer went the other for a great finish, and the lead. The final 5 minutes were tight for both sides, with Valley trying to find a way back and Truro desperate to keep them out and kill off the game with a third.
With such a close scoreline, the 3pts gained against a well organised and dangerous team such as Valley tasted all the sweeter at the final whistle.
It was fantastic to see that the players drafted in stepped up, causing Capt Coote some selection headaches for the future. The ladies jump to 2nd in the league and continue next week away to Caradon 2nd’s, hoping they can continue to exert pressure on leaders Dart.

Anna Collingwood, Stacie Coote, Miranda Burton, Michelle Hares, Becky Frost, Kelly Cadwell, Vicky Ivison, Alexa Blake, Marian Taylor, Vivky Guy, Anna Barrington, Susan Brown, Leanne Keymer
 

 

SIX APPEAL

BUDE LADIES 2nd’s 1- 6 TRURO LADIES 1st’s

Truro travelled to bottom of the table Bude this week, with Truro needing all the points they can get to continue pressing the league leaders.

Truro started the game brilliantly with Kelly Cadwell, Becky Frost and Lois Parkinson taking charge of the centre pitch, Bude had no chance getting past these strong players. The balls was distributed to the wings using Laura Harper on the right, who used her pace to run around the opposition sending some good balls to Leanne Keymer. Keymer opened the scoring, using her speed to fly past Budes defence and thump the ball into the corner of the goal. Truro were showing that they were really up for this game, right from the restart they hounded Bude’s possession, continually overturning the ball and launching more raids into opposition territory. Again using the width well, Truro played the ball around, Beth Knowles on the left passing the ball up to the forwards again found Leanne Keymer who scored her second goal of the day. Truro knew this was going to be goal fury and not long after the second goal was scored, Truro whizzed the ball from side to side passing the ball From Eleanor Pierce to Stacie Coote switched to Michelle Hares who found Susan Brown smashing the ball up to find Laura Harper who went through the defence and reversed stick it into the back of the goal. The score was 3-0 within 10 minutes of the game. This agitated Bude who were coming back more aggressively and challenging every ball but Truro held their heads up and played their own game. Fantastic stick work from Kate Blackburn saw her passed several defenders, hitting the ball hard across the area which Keymer deflected for her hat trick, gaining her this weeks Maid of the Match. As happens often in all sports, Truro got a bit cocky, paying the price when they conceded a rather fluky goal from Bude.

Truro started to calm down a bit, while Bude had decided the best way to stop Truro was to foul their way out off trouble. Despite these attempts to frustrate their game plan, Truro continued to work the ball around creating chances. One led to their 5th , when Truro were given a free hit outside of the area, Blackburn gave it one of her special smacks which found Laura Harper, who deflected it in past the goalie for her second of the day.

In the second half, Truro started to look a little uncomfortable and their play wasn’t looking as good as it previously did in the first half. By now the game was beginning to get a bit scrappy, with it degenerating into a midfield squabble which benefited neither side. Luckily Truro were still getting the odd moment of cohesion that enabled them to win a short corner. With Brown pushing out to Parkinson at the top of the area, she took the straight strike on goal, which was too powerful for the Bude defence, for the 6th and final goal of the day.

Truro play Plym Valley 2 at home at 3pm

Jade Taylor, Stacie Coote, Eleanor Pierce, Michelle Hares, Becky Frost, Beth Knowles, Laura Harper, Lois Parkinson, Kelly Cadwell, Leanne Keymer, Susan Brown, Anna Barrington and Kate Blackburn

 

GAME OF 2 HALVES

TRURO LADIES 5 – 0 DARTMOUTH

Truro restarted their season a week late due to last weeks frozen pitch’s which had seen the first game cancelled. With only one practice session under their belts, they looked a little uncomfortable to begin, not quite gelling in their passing and movement, however, Dartmouth had only turned up with 10 players which allowed Truro the luxury of getting themselves back into the groove. Gradually as the first half wore on Truro began to show more and more flashes of their normal selves, Alexa Blake and Laura Harper started putting pressure on Dartmouth using their pace, and finding Anna Barrington who was beginning to cause the defence all sorts of trouble. From here on Truro spent most of the time camped around the opposition ‘D’, peppering the goal, but were continually thwarted by some outstanding goalkeeping. Dartmouth were penned back around their own goal, and every time their forwards got the ball, it was smothered by a defence well organised by Capt Stacie Coote with the help of Anna Collingwood and Eleanor Pierce, who sent the ball straight back up to the midfield.
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Half time saw the girls slightly frustrated by the wasted opportunities, but in good spirits as they were playing as well as they had been before Christmas. They restarted as they had left off, with strong movement and passing, Kelly Cadwell who was working the middle so well, fought hard for every ball and launched another wave of attacks. Truro were looking dangerous and the goals started coming fast and furious.

Laura Harper scored the first goal, managing to stun keeper with her first shot, and then rounding her with the rebound to strike a reverse stick shot into the goal. This gave Truro the buzz they needed, the second goal quickly followed from Kelly Cadwell, who thoroughly deserved her Maid Of The Match award, who took the ball around several players to sweep the ball in. Sue Brown picked up a simple tap in at the back post after the keeper spilled the initial shot from Barrington, then Vicky Guy had a straight strike which seemed mesmerise everyone until it smacked into the backboard for number four. Normally found in defence, Michelle Hares completed the scoring with her first goal of the season, with a hard low shot from the edge of the area.
Truro are away next week to Bude 2nd’s.

Team: Jade Taylor (GK), Stacie Coote, Anna Collingwood, Eleanor Pierce, Frankie Raquet, Michelle Hares, Kelly Cadwell, Laura Harper, Alexa Blake, Susan Brown, Leanne Keymer, Vicky Guy, Anna Barrington.

PHOTO
Truro Ladies are seen here with the Skinners banner as they wanted to thank them for giving them the facilities for a fundraiser where the club made £200. Skinners Brewery have helped Truro Hockey in the past sponsoring the girls, and also sponsoring various county sides.
 

DEVASTATING DECISION

TRURO LADIES 1-2 PLYMOUTH UNI LADIES

Truro ladies had another tough game this week, again it was a 2nd versus 3rd match, having seen off Morgarrows last week, they now had new foes Plymouth Uni who were also chasing leaders DartTruro fought hard from beginning to end, and were not pleased when Plym Uni scored the first goal very much against the run of play. Straight after, with some good pace and skill, Laura Harper sent a fantastic ball to Leanne Keymer, who had all the time in the world to roof the ball into the top of the net for a fantastic first goal for the team. Truro started to pick up their play, using Alexa Blake's pace to good effect, began to cause the Uni girls all sorts of problems down the right, with a lot of cross's into the danger zones. Plymouth however, were still putting pressure on the Truro and managed to score another goal just before half time whistle. Truro knew that if they were to come away winners, they had to put everything into their last performance before Christmas, and if they played to their strengths that they would save their 2nd place in the league. Truro's midfield led the charge with some great play that built new attacks and recycled the ball when Uni gained possession. This seemed to of paid off, when Keymer passed across the face of the goal to Sue Brown at the back post, panic in the Uni defence saw the ball kicked over the goalline by a defender but to the shock of everyone including the Uni girls, it was disallowed and a defensive hit given. The whole team was completely flabbergasted as to why the goal wasn't given, and even though the Truro Captain wasn't on the pitch, managed to get herself, with several spectators dismissed from the playing area. With minutes to go, Truro continued to battle, but didn't get another good chance. They now drop to 4th in the league, and have a lot of hard work to do after Christmas to get themselves back into contention for promotion.

 

ALL FIRED UP

TRURO LADIES 4-1 MORGARROWS

This was a game that Truro wanted to win for many reasons: 2nd vs. 3rd in the league, local rivalry, revenge for last year and an amount of antipathy between the sides. Whichever way it played out, this was certainly going to be a defining moment for one of the teams.

Truro had their strongest squad out so far, with a team that has really gelled this year and were fired up for the match, and they started in a very businesslike way. Playing strong, sensible hockey, they worked the ball around the pitch, using their width to probe and speed to exploit, all the time looking for the opportunity to strike. Morgarrows looked uncomfortable by this new improved Truro side, and didn't really get going until the 2nd half, by which time Truro were already 2 goals ahead. The first came after about 15 minutes, when a Morgarrows defender illegally stopped a goal bound shot, giving away a penalty flick, top goal scorer Laura Harper stepped up to slot home with aplomb. The 2nd was a beautiful crafted team goal with Lois Roberts, Kate Blackburn and Becky Frost combining to set up Anna Barrington who slotted home a peach, past a despairing keeper.The break allowed Morgarrows to regroup and both teams really came out fighting in the 2nd half. For the first time the Truro defence was put under pressure, but some fine saves from keeper Jade Taylor, Capt Coote and her girls held them at bay, meanwhile Alexa Blake, Leanne Keymer and Sue Brown were peppering the Morgarrows goal. The St.Ives outfit did finally squeeze the ball over the line, but if they thought Truro's attitude was fragile, they were proved wrong when Barrington was allowed all the time in the world to pick her spot and hammer in a thunderous shot to make it 3-1. Despite their lead, Truro were determined to finish off with a bang, showing initiative, skill and speed, they never backed down, and kept pushing and pushing until another goal was secure. Truro finished the game in style, with a move that started in the defence, was passed to Kelly Cadwell, who played a deft triangle with Natalie Oliver, feeding Vicki Guy's well timed run, winning a short corner for Blackburn to let rip for her 2nd and Truro's 4th.

This was Truro's best game of the season so far, showcasing all their best qualities, and the way they dispatched a promotion rival in such a glorious way will help their own belief tremendously. They just need to remember that they can play like this every week. Jade Taylor, Stacie Coote, Paula Cockle, Laura Embling, Becy Frost, Anna Collingwood, Kelly Cadwell, Natalie Oliver, Lois Roberts, Kate Blackburn, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Susan Brown, Leanne Keymer, Vicky Guy and Anna Barrington

 

STRUTTING THEIR STUFF

OKEHAMPTON 1-8 TRURO LADIES

Truro felt that they had something to prove after last weeks disappointing game, and came away with their best result this season which keeps them hot on the heels of the league leaders. When Truro get it right they can be a formidable unit and they certainly did against a rather average side who were beaten in the first 15 minutes. Charging straight at Okehampton from the first whistle, they gave their opposition no chance to settle or barely touch the ball. Hard grafting in the middle from Maid of the Match Becky Frost, Laura Harper and Laura Embling, overran the Okehampton defence, creating chances for Sue Brown and Kate Blackburn, but it was Harper who got the all important 1st goal. Alexa Blake had the run of the right side, using it well she kept getting behind a defence that seemed to have no real answers to her pace, with her cross's giving them nightmares all afternoon. Brown connected nicely with one to put in a 2nd goal before Blackburn pounced on a rebound from the keeper to hammer the ball into the roof of the net for the 3rd. A tactical substitution brought on new signing Leanne Keymer, who started to give the left side as much trouble as Blake was doing on the right, which resulted in her winning a short corner for Harper to convert her 2nd and Truro's 4th goal. All this in the first 15 minutes! Although the chances kept coming, the Okehampton keeper really stepped up and almost single-handedly defied Truro for the rest of the game. What chances Okehampton did get in Truro's half were all quickly snuffed out by Michelle Hares, Capt Coote, Eleanor Pierce and Anna Collingwood, who showed some good aggressive kicking in goal. The second half started in much the same way as the first, Truro used their superior speed on the flanks to bypass the Okehampton midfield, while Truro's own middle, now containing Anna ‘The Wall' Barrington, kept turning the screw, recycling the ball back into the danger zones. Beth Knowles was brought onto the left wing, while Keymer was given a run up front, and although didn't score will be a potent weapon for the future. Brown got 2 more goals, including a lovely mazy run passed 4 defenders and the keeper, which showed she's back to her best form. Blackburn got her 2nd from a short corner strike and Harper completed her hat trick from an ugly goal mouth scramble. Truro did concede a freak goal from Okehamptons solitary attack in the 2nd half, when their winger fired a shot across the goal at chest height straight at Coote, who in defending herself, nicked the ball into the top corner passed Collingwood for a goal any forward would of been proud of. Next week Truro host 2nd placed local rivals Morgarrows, at Truro School, hoping a win plus their game in hand can really put pressure on Dart in 1st place. Anna Collingwood, Stacie Coote, Becky Frost, Michelle Hares, Eleanor Pierce, Laura Embling, Beth Knowles, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Leanne Keymer, Susan Brown, Kate Blackburn, Anna Barrington

 

BAD AWAY DAY

DART 5 - 1 TRURO LADIES

Truro had their worst result of the season so far, when they traveled to Ivybridge. Although the torrential rain didn't help, it was the same for both teams and Truro knew it was going to be a tough game, with Dart the current league leaders. Dart were the more fluid from the start, pushing the Truro back into their own area. The defence had a hard game with the majority of the play being in their own half, so it was no surprise when Dart opened the scoring within a few minutes of the start, but then Kate Blackburn leveled straight after, when Truro managed to win a penalty. Dart continued to pressurize but Truro did keep coming back and managed to win a few penalties, however, they failed to capitalize on these opportunities. Dart on the other hand were having a lucky day, when it all went right, and even managed to score when the umpire failed to see the ball kicked into the goal. Despite all the possession and chances, Dart were only 2-1 up at half time so Truro thought they still stood a good chance of getting back into the match. With a couple of changes Anna "The Wall" Barrington found herself playing in defence instead of centre forward and fought hard to get the ball back up to the Truro attackers. Nikki Bain, Natalie Oliver and Lois Roberts worked hard in the middle but Darts tails were up and in a devastating 10 minute period at the start of the 2nd half scored 3 quick goals to end the contest. Although, Capt Coote did manage to steady her girls after this, Truro struggled to make an impact with Dart shutting up shop, but looked a lot more solid at the back and didn't concede any goals in the final 25 minutes. This is only their second loss, and with fellow contenders, Morgarrows, also losing, Truro are not out of this league yet, but with only one team from this league being promoted they know they cannot have too many more slip ups. Jade Taylor, Stacey Coote, Paula Cockle, Michelle Hares, Natalie Oliver, Nikki Bain, Lois Roberts, Kate BLackburn, Laura Harper, Alexa Blake, Susan Brown, Anna Barrington, Vicky Guy and Beth Knowles

 

MANNAMEAD MUGGED

MANNAMEAD 2nd's 0-7 TRURO LADIES 1st's

Jade Taylor, Anna Collingwood, Eleanor Pierce, Michelle Hares, Capt Stacie Coote, Paula Cockle, Marian Taylor, Nikki Bain, Kate Blackburn, Alexa Blake, Laura Harper, Lois Roberts, Susan Brown, Anna Barrington, Vicky Guy Truro started off slowly, with Mannamead being the team that settled first and made the initial series of attacks, breaking through to the Truro D. Despite this, the defence of Collingwood, Pierce, Hares, Cockles and Coote held firm, not letting a shot get through to Jade Taylor in goal. Gradually Truro eased themselves into the game, using the width well and taking advantage of their superior pace down the wings, they began to push Mannamead back into their own area. The further back Mannamead went, the bigger Truro's confidence grew, culminating in a hard cross into the area that found Sue Brown on the far post who slapped the ball into the goal totally taking the keeper by surprise. This sparked off a rampage by Truro, who pretty much mugged Mannamead, with the goals coming thick and fast. Anna Barrington and Alexa Blake scored their first goals of the season, with Nikki Bain, Lois Roberts, Kate Blackburn continuing their own competition for top scorer, Blackburn getting 2, and the others 1 each. Having conceded 7 goals in one half Mannamead, were purely playing for pride in the second half, and credit to them they toughened up and were far better organised, with Truro never getting to run riot through them again. They even managed to launch a few attacks, although these were easily snuffed out with keeper Jade Taylor not touching the ball once on the day. Truro will be delighted by this result, setting them up nicely with a real 6 pointer away to top of the table Dart next week, and with Truro still having a game in hand.

 

National Vase Match

The game against Hereford is on Sunday 9th Nov at Truro School, push back 2pm.

Please note that the 2nds have their Cornwall Cup match at Penair at 12noon start, if you can please go along to support them before this match.

 

LADIES 7 GOAL BONANZA

TRURO LADIES 7-0 CARADON 2nd's

Having already easily beaten Caradon 2nd's 6-0 in a friendly last week Truro continued to pull out the stops on Saturday with an easy league victory by a better margin. Truro performed well in all areas, with the backs not having too work too hard defending, but when Caradon did have a few lucky breaks, Truro were quick to pounce, with Eleanor Pierce, Michelle Hares, Paula Cockle, Laura Embling and captain Stacey Coote stopping every likely chance of Caradon scoring. Anna Collingwood had a quiet day with hardly touching the ball at all. In midfield, Kelly Cadwell, deserved Maid of the Match on the day, worked well in the middle, recycling the ball when plays broke down and setting up Nikki Bain, and Kate Blackburn, to build the attacks. A strong centre has been at the heart of Truro's good form this season, again they took control and dominated Caradon's players, continually pressurising and providing the springboard for wave after wave of attacks. Nikki and Kate worked particularly well together, and using the width, giving the wings plenty to play with. Chasing the ball down the wings, were Lois Roberts who played outstandingly on the left from her usual central role, but proved to be a great all rounder and fed the ball to forwards Susan Brown and Anna Barrington who were on top form this week, out pacing the Caradon defence. Laura Harper on the right proved to be invincible again, charging straight at the defence and scored her second hat trick of the season. Alexa Blake who shared roles with Laura Harper, became the flying winger, proved how strong the team is this year by slipping straight into Harpers role and sending cross after cross into the D for the forwards, who took full advantage. Natalie Oliver made her first appearance of the season, playing very well and showed us what she was made of by scoring one of the seven goals. Goalscorers: Laura Harper 3, Kate Blackburn 2, Nicki Bain 1, Natalie Oliver 1 The Ladies have next week off from league action, then have 3 on the road, not returning to Fortress Truro until a top of the table clash on 29th Nov against current league leaders Morgarrows.

 

HAT TRICK FOR GUY

TRURO LADIES 1st's 6-0 CARDON 2nd's

This friendly gave Capt Stacey Coote a chance to have a good look at how much strength in depth the ladies team have this season, Truro were by far the stronger side with some excellent performances that will give her a headache for next weeks selection. Truro started well, Nicki Bain and Lois Roberts outclassing their opposite numbers, completely bossing the centre of the pitch and setting up attack after attack. Marian Taylor, Beth Knowles, Vicki Guy, Alexa Blake and Kate Blackburn were like kids on Christmas morning, slicing through the Caradon defence, and playing some beautiful passing hockey. Throughout the game, the goals came regularly, Blackburn thumped in the first, Knowles followed up her first attempt and danced around the keeper for the second goal, before Guy launched a thunderbolt into the roof of the net. Even Paula Cockles and Coote, normally in defence, both had chances, and it was a very satisfied Truro that went into the break 3 goals up. Although leading comfortably, Truro made some tactical changes, to test out a few people in unusual positions but continued to run rings around a Caradon side that were looking a little shell shocked. Caradon just could not keep the ball away from their own area, with Roberts recycling the ball over and over again. Frankie Racket and Michelle Hares had pushed up smothering anything that looked as if it would get into the Truro half and returning the ball back to the forwards. Again another 3 goals came with a metronomic precision, Blackburn with another hammer blow, Guy with a tap in, then bulling her way passed several defenders and the keeper to complete her hat trick. Truro should have had more but their own enthusiasm kept them from adding to the tally, and poor Jade Taylor in goal for Truro only touched the ball once in the whole 70 minutes. Next week Truro take on Caradon 2nd's again, this time in the league, and unfortunately for Caradon: Kelly Cadwell, Laura Harper, Suz Brown, Anna Barrington, Anna Collingwood and Eleanor Pierce will all be available to add their strength to the team.

Ladies Hit The Wall

Plym Valley 2-1 Truro Ladies

Newly promoted Plym Valley 2's were the destination for Truro Ladies this weekend, who were keen to continue their 100% record and stay top of the league. Truro have improved all round since last year and despite several key players being absent, Truro now have a very healthy competition for places and their replacements were determined to stake their claims. Both teams were here for the win, trading attacks and counters, jockeying for position for that important breakthrough. The defence of Paula Cockle, Stacie Coote, and Michelle Hares were under pressure for much of the half, working hard to protect Anna Collingwood's goal. Unfortunately for Truro it was Plym Valley that got a lucky break when the ball accidentally clipped Coote's foot on the goal line, giving Plym Valley a penalty flick. Although Valley converted to take the lead, Truro kept their heads, becoming increasingly determined to fight back and even out the score. Kelly Cadwell, Nicki Bain and Lois Roberts kept the game strong in the middle feeding the halves who were hungry for the ball, using Marian Taylor and Alexa Blake who used their speed to quickly get the ball straight into the Plym Valley territory. Sue Brown, Anna Barrington and Vicki Guy all got good shots off but were denied by the Valley goalie who was outstanding all afternoon. Valley then got another piece of luck when communication was lost with the Truro defence, under pressure, and a straight strike took Collingwood by surprise to give them a 2-0 lead. Again Truro had to lift themselves up, and last year they would probably have been easily beaten, but this years team is a lot tougher, and went straight back at Valley, who didn't threaten Collingwood's goal again. Truro then began a barrage against the Valley goal, with shots coming in from all directions with almost everyone of the Truro team having a shot; even after a large number of short corners the Valley goal remained unbreached. While it was beginning to look like it wasn't going to be Truro's day, they kept plugging away. Sophie Brewster thought she'd given Truro a lifeline when she flicked the ball in, only for the umpire to disallow the goal for alleged dangerous play. With minutes to go Kelly Cadwell appeared out of nowhere and let her frustration loose on the ball, which smashed into the roof of the net to keep their hopes alive. The Valley keeper then saved her team for the umpteenth time from Brown and Blake before the umpire's final whistle. Despite this loss, Truro can take an awful lot of positives away from the game, their resolve, passing, movement and the sheer number of chances they created, but know that having that much dominance should of lead to a win. Next week they have a spare league date but will be playing a friendly against Caradon 2nd's. Anna Collingwood, Jade Taylor, Michelle Hares, Stacie Coote, Paula Cockle, Kelly Cadwell, Nicki Bain, Lois Roberts, Marian Taylor, Alexa Blake, Susan Brown, Vicky Guy, Anna Barrington and Sophie Brewster.  

3 GOALS, 5* GAME

 

TRURO LADIES 1st's 3 - 0 BUDE 2nd's 

Kate's short corner routine -terrify the defence

Truro Ladies had yet another win at the weekend with a strong all round performance which keeps them at the top of the Trelawney 2. As with their recent displays, Truro started all fired up, immediately setting out their stall as to how they wanted to play the game: retaining possession, turning over the ball and unrelenting waves of fast attacks. Welcoming back Capt Coote, the defence squeezed the opposition giving them no time to get into the game and keeping the midfield supplied with the ball to launch the next raid into Bude territory. Communication has been the watch word this year with the ladies and Hares, Pierce, Collingwood, Taylor and Coote did well at the back marshalling the play and maintaining the width needed to dominate Bude. With the back secure, Kelly Cadwell and Paula Cockles had fantastic games, feeding the outside half's, creating avenues and directing the attacks. Alexia Blake and Laura Harper remained strong on the wings pushing the ball through to Kate Blackburn, Vicki Guy, Anna Barrington and Sue Brown who were forcing a very harassed defence through their paces. A goal was always coming, with plenty queuing up for it, but it was to be Harper who got the first, appearing out of nowhere to latch onto Blackburn's cross which took the keeper by surprise for a simple tap in. Only a few minutes later Brown had a great attempt clawed off the line before Vicky Guy found herself in the right spot, following up her initial shot after it was saved to bundle the ball over the line for Truro's 2nd. Truro gave Bude no let up in the 2nd half, with new addition Vicki Iverson coming on in the centre of defence and showed off her formidable tackling and distribution skills. Barrington and Blake especially were making some fantastic runs, opening up the defence before laying off the ball for others to shoot that were only thwarted by some very courageous defending. If anything Truro played even better in the 2nd half than the 1st but could not quite turn a good victory into a rout that sometimes threatened, with a lot of credit for that going to Bude's debutant keeper. The 3rd goal came with only 8 minutes remaining, after good passing by Cadwell, Pierce and Collingwood set up Blackburn, who was fouled on the edge of the ‘D', spotted Harper, who has now scored 5 goals in two games, lurking at the far post and with quick thinking took an early free hit before Bude had settled, for another easy swept goal. Another win that builds on all the hard work done by the ladies in recent weeks, but Truro will not be taking anything for granted as next week they are away to Plym Valley who were tough opponents last year but they aim to stay top of the table.

Cornwall Cup Draw

Joy of joys, Truro ladies 1st's have drawn St.Austell....again. Match to be played by 22nd Dec in St.Austell.

Harpers Hat-trick Heaven

Truro Ladies 7 v Dartmouth 1

Another Truro hockey team to start the new season on their travels was the ladies 1st team, away to Dartmouth. Fielding a strong team, with a mixture of new and old players, they were hoping to start the season with a bang. Truro started well, with stand-in Captain Nicki Bain taking control of the midfield , dominating the play and almost before Dartmouth realised that the game had started, Bain released Sue Brown down the left, who cut back into the ‘D' and slotted home to open the scoring. On previous encounters Dartmouth had proved themselves to be a solid side, and showed good resilience after this shock start, while they didn't get much possession of the ball they did manage to hold Truro at arms length from their goal. Truro continued to press, with several near misses, but frustration mixed with over eagerness, allowed Dartmouth to get the ball into Truro's area. Confusion between Jade Taylor in goal and one of her defenders allowed Dartmouth to score completely against the run of play, and leave the game all square at 1 - 1, after Truro had had so much of the possession. Previous ladies sides may of let their heads drop, but not this year's team who came storming back at Dartmouth's temerity at scoring. A lovely team goal saw Kate Blackburn start and finish a move from her own half, which passed through six other players without Dartmouth getting near the ball before she calmly nutmegged the advancing keeper to put Truro's nose's back in front. Now all the play was with Truro, and Dartmouth were working solely on damage limitation, Bain hammered a shot into the bottom corner, and Laura Harper scored the first of hers, to give Truro a 4 - 1 lead at half time. The second half saw Truro continue in the same vein, by completely dominating the play, with, on occasion's defenders Paula Cockles, and Michelle Hares finding themselves in the opposition area. Credit must go the Dartmouth keeper and her defenders, who under an almost unrelenting barrage of shots continued to fight to protect their goal. Both centre forwards, Anna Barrington and Vicki Guy, on another day could of scored a hat full each, and Marion Taylor had one scrabbled off the line, but Harper was on song collecting a delightful pass from Lois Roberts to strike for her 2nd and Truro's 5th. Only a couple of minutes later Guy opened a channel for Harper, feeding her a peach of a pass to complete her hat trick with a sweetly placed shot. Finally with only a few minutes to go, they scored their 7th from a short corner, Bain hitting the deliberately wide shot for Brown to sweep in cleanly from the near post. After some positive pre season games, Truro will be delighted that they have started so well, currently at the top of the table in Trelawney 1, they will want to still be there after next weeks visit from newly promoted Bude 2nd's.

 

 

 

Truro ladies at the Caradon 7

A Good Day In The Sun  

The debut of Truro ladies at the Caradon 7's tournament at Lux Park in Liskeard, turned out as something of a small success. The short 15 minute games were intense, full of action and pushed the ladies to work as hard as they could to grab every goal. The first game was against a well regarded Tavistock side who were had realistic hopes of getting to the knock out stages of the tournament. From the start, Truro's tough pre-season training proved its worth, with their better passing, movement and aggression overwhelming their opponents; they were doing everything right except scoring. With time running out Vicki Guy finally buried the ball into the netting and Harper followed with a textbook finish. Although Truro had a few issues in front of goal, they were creating plenty of chances and the manner in which they had started really boosted their confidence for the rest of the day. Plym Valley was the next game, and would be a tough test having easily defeated Truro in their two league meetings from last year. Despite a good start and a few half chances, they were gradually pushed back with Cockles and Coote pushed hard by an organised and effective unit. They conceded a goal and less than a minute later conceded another almost identical one to go 2 down, but replied straightaway with Guy tagging another after Harper had beaten most of the Valley team. Valley had obviously been expecting Truro to roll over at their second goal and wobbled badly, with a wave of Truro attacks, Natalie Oliver hit the post and Ally Chaplin thought she'd secured a draw but her equalizer was disallowed. Then with the last move of the match Valley got a penalty, which they converted to flatter them with a 3 - 1 score line. Despite the loss Truro were not out just yet, and were determined to rise above the defeat and be stronger for this game. This was clear when the then ladies played Falmouth 2^nd's in the next match, with a great team goal coming almost instantly from Chaplin making it 1-0 within the first minute, and with any rare Falmouth break being contained by Frankie Racquet, Coote and Cookles, Truro never looked in danger of losing. Victory was assured with a second goal coming from Guy but despite several chances for each of Harper, Oliver and Beth Knowles, they couldn't quite get the goal feast they deserved. The last game saw Truro face Caradon 3rds, who, although they put up a worthy fight, saw Truro triumph with a  3 - 0 result, all from Laura Harper, making her the top goal scorer for Truro in the tournament. Truro ladies finished credible runners up in their group, and were only denied a place in the semi finals by Newquay having a superior goal difference for the best runners up slot. Even though the ladies didn't make it through to the finals, they played hard and this was a great opener for the season, especially as it was held on a rare day in the sunshine. Next week, Truro will be playing in the ladies county tournament held at Penair and Truro Schools, with the season's debut of their newly created 2^nd team.  

Whats that bright thing in the sky?

[caption id="attachment_467" align="aligncenter" width="270" caption="Our classy girls........"][/caption]

Womens National Vase 2008/09

The ladies have received a bye in the first round of this years competition. We'll find out after 19th October who their victims are!

2007/2008 Ladies team

  Looking good in their brand new kit thanks to 1st European Securities. Back, left to right: Jen Pierce, Beth Knowles, Natalie Oliver, Sopie Brewster, Danni Fry, Anna Barrington, Alexa Blake, Suz Brown Front: Nikki Bain, Jade Taylor, Capt Stacey Coote, Hannah, Ruth Asleep on the floor: Anna Collingwood               They don't scrub up too badly, and not a shin pad in sight! Ellie, Nicki S, Jade, Vicki, Alli, Stacey, Beth, Laura, Nikki B, Becks, Lex, Danni, Suz, Soph