Old Georgians Ladies 1XI notched their first victory of the 2024 season, defeating Canterbury 2-1 in a closely contested match at Polo Farm.
After an opening weekend loss, OGs were eager to bounce back, and they did so with a performance full of resilience and tactical discipline.
The game began with both sides probing each other’s defences, but it was Canterbury who drew first blood. A penalty corner opportunity in the 15th minute was calmly converted by Abbie Bean, putting the home side 1-0 up. Canterbury looked confident in the first half, controlling possession and applying pressure, while OGs struggled to find their rhythm. Despite OGs trying to push back, the first half ended with the hosts holding onto their narrow lead.
Old Georgians, however, emerged from the break with renewed energy and determination. They began to carve out chances, and their persistence finally paid off in the second half. A series of penalty corners proved pivotal in turning the game around. In the 52nd minute, Leigh Maasdorp stepped up and fired home from a penalty corner, levelling the score at 1-1. The goal was a result of sustained pressure from OGs, who had been knocking on the door throughout the early stages of the second half.
OGs' equaliser shifted the momentum, and they capitalised further with yet another penalty corner in the 63rd minute. This time, it was Rosie Macpherson who delivered the decisive blow, slotting the ball into the back of the net to give Old Georgians a 2-1 lead. The goal came after a well-executed penalty corner routine, and it underscored OGs' ability to make the most of their set-piece opportunities.
Canterbury pushed for a late equaliser, but OGs held firm with some strong defending and intelligent game management in the final minutes. Canterbury’s early control of the game was neutralised by Old Georgians' more aggressive second-half play, which saw the visitors dominate both possession and territory in the latter stages of the match.
It wasn’t just the goals that defined the game, as discipline was also key. Three green cards were handed out to Old Georgians players over the course of the match: Nikki Lloyd in the 11th minute, Orna Bools in the 24th minute, and goal-scorer Leigh Maasdorp in the 43rd minute. Despite these setbacks, OGs maintained composure, and their defence stood tall during these periods of reduced numbers.
Key Match Moments:
- Abbie Bean (Canterbury): 15’ (PC)
- Leigh Maasdorp: 52’ (PC)
- Rosie Macpherson: 63’ (PC)
- Green cards: Nikki Lloyd (11’), Orna Bools (24’), Leigh Maasdorp (43’)
The match was a significant one for Nikki Lloyd, who returned to face her former club, Canterbury, where she had previously enjoyed great success, including winning the league title. For Old Georgians, this victory will provide a much-needed confidence boost as they continue their campaign in the Women's Conference East.
Coach’s Comment: "It was a great team performance and good to get the win on the road. It was an important game for us and we know it’s not an easy place to go and play but everyone put in an amazing shift and we are hoping to build on that momentum as we look to play top of the table this weekend."
This win sees OGs pick up their first points of the season, with their sights now set on further success in the weeks ahead.