Taking their lead from the men’s England rugby team the day before, this was most definitely a game of two very different halves. Struggling for fluency in the early stages against a Thame side who started brightly, the Revels soon found themselves 2 goals behind with a seeming mountain to climb.

Gradually, the girls settled. With their hockey becoming more fluent, the Revels were eventually rewarded for their hard work with a short corner. Up stepped Isla to drill the ball home, reducing the gap to one at half time.

The second half was a very different affair with Reading dominating for long periods. Suddenly, there was a snap about their play as ball pace lifted and telling, early passes opened up Thame’s defence. Thame continued to be a threat with several counter attacks almost leading to a goal. A defence well marshalled by Tess (who was awarded Player of the Match by the opposition team) ensured such threats were short lived.

Another goal from Isla raised confidence levels further and Reading went on the hunt for the winning goal. Shortly before the final whistle, a powerfully struck ball by Megan deflected off a Thame player and into the goal for a final score of 3-2 to the Revels.

Well done to everyone for a fine team performance. It was particularly pleasing to see steady improvement throughout the game and bodes well for the rest of the season.

Additional message from Toby;

a simple well done to all - great composure, effort and team play through out - all should be proud an exciting game to coach - thank you.