Ladies 1

Sutton Coldfield 0 Reading 1 09/04/2008

Reading 1 Sutton Coldfield 0

Reading came to their last game of the season knowing that if they won and if Sunderland failed to win then they would be playing off for a place in the Premier division so it was not surprising that on a cold April day Reading were nervous rather than fluent not helped by being buffeted by arctic hail and the rather physical tactics of their opponents. This was hardly a memorable game.

Reading were tight and disciplined once again in defence, keeping their second successive clean sheet this time against Vicky Woolford the league’s top scorer. A foundation to build on for next season. Further forward Emma Thomas celebrated her GB Super League selection with another impressive game, running the midfield, but couldn’t prompt her forwards into opening a lead.

An early goal would have settled nerves, instead tension crept into Reading’s game and sensing this Sutton enjoyed one of their best periods of the game. With no score at half time, Reading knew they needed to lift the pace after the restart. Sutton may have had little left to play for except local bragging rights, but they were determined that Reading should not have an easy ride.

Reading had no problem creating a succession of penalty corners once again, but their execution failed them. It was another fine piece of individual skill from Jenna Woolven that eventually gave Reading the lead and lifting her to 2nd in the division top scorers with 12 goals. With that the sunshine broke through and Reading relaxed. Sutton gave Reading the odd scare but fine individual defence from Emma Kavanagh and Alison Pope negated those leaving Reading to keep their part of the bargain and get victory.

A nervous wait followed as Reading waited to hear the Sunderland result and were disappointed to learn they had also won 3-1 against their Birmingham opponents from the University. Reading therefore missed out on playoffs by 2 points, having drawn one more game than Sunderland. So Trojans will be in the Premier division next season, Sunderland play Chlemsford to decide who will join them and Reading will wait to find out which Slazenger EHL Conference division they need to win next season.

With a new look young squad, and a new coach to match their highest ever finish of 3rd in Division 1 is a great accomplishment. With most of the squad and management remaining in place this summer Reading can look forward to building on this next season.

The girls celebrated their season later that evening with a fine italian meal and a few quiet drinks.

Thanks to everyone who travelled to Sutton on Saturday, and to everyone who has supported us home and away throughout the season. We look forward to seeing you next year.

Squad: Lucy Stevenson, Emma Kavanagh, Alison Pope, Marianne Hood, Becky Dru, Emily Malden, Emma Thomas, Erin Ruxton, Vicky Bryant, Claire Kerr, Jenna Woolven, Chiara Clarke, Alex Smith, Alice Margerison
Management: Rhys Joyce, Emma France