Scottish Cup vs Aberdeen L1s - Doing Battle North of the Wall

It’s been a tough start to the season for Ladies 4s having faced strong opposition in their early league fixtures. The return of the Cup ignited vigour in the ranks as the memories of THAT semi-final match at Glasgow Green last season restored faith.

The troops arrived at Fortress Tipperlinn to commence the journey north. Note to self: in future wear trackies like everyone else, if you turn up in a dress you will get ribbed. The convoy set off, Aberdeen the destination for battle.

After a team talk by Captain Mel in a somewhat over-crowded changing room (no not a full squad of ‘sonians, more a melee of volleyball players / hockey players / tiddlywinks players all getting a little closer than necessary on a Sunday morning) we took to the field to face off with Aberdeen Hockey Club Ladies.

The game started slowly, each team sussing out the other. Initial exchanges were scrappy as both teams looked to confirm they were in control. ‘Sonians were patient in their build up with some wonderful switch play round the back between Catie, Lauren and Hannah C that would no doubt bring a tear to coach Paul’s eye. Keeper Saskia was definitely heard sobbing at such a beautiful sight. Unfortunately Aberdeen were ready to sniff out any loose balls and a breakaway from their determined lone forward resulted in a short. In what was to become a common feature of the match, Aberdeen executed their penalty corner with military precision. Before you could say ‘fire!’, the ball had been sent to the top of the D, blasted into the backboard and rebounded with such force it was back at the half way line ready for the pass back.

The first half finished 2-0 but the Ladies 4s focused on what worked well in the first half - shipping the ball out to Julia and AJ poised in the wide channels to build an attack into the opposition D. More of the same needed in the second half.

Taking to the field once more the Ladies 4s worked tirelessly in search of a comeback. Jenny and Mel put in a shift in the engine room with Kim, Olivia and Imogen always ready to offer an outlet. AJ was a shining star on the wing with Suzanne and Julia doing their best to help the defence stem wave after wave of attack. Hannah C commanded play in the middle of the pitch as she does so well. But despite the Ladies 4s best efforts Aberdeen were just too well drilled and capitalised on their chances. In the closing moments however Ladies 4s salvaged a well-deserved goal from the wreckage. A turn over in defence saw the ball whizz up the field culminating in a cross-goal shot from Isabel....GOAL! Poor Isabel had literally been in battle having worn two shots on the leg from Aberdeen’s shinty playing defender. Trooper.

Final score 6-1 with the Ladies 4s bloodied (exaggeration) and bruised (legit) from battle. Nevermind, the plate awaits and everyone enjoyed fish and chips on the trip back down the road. Silver linings!

Thanks to Hannah C’s dad Stephen for driving the girls up to Aberdeen and helpfully re-enacting for the benefit of the umpire some pushing that he had spotted. Legend.