Stroud, having not lost in the last 10 games, were always in control of this game against bottom-of-the-table Portishead. The entire pace of the game was sedate to say the least, even when the indomitable Abbi Powell scored her first glorious goal of the match. The home side were never really attacked by the Stroud team although Powell managed to squeeze home her second goal to give Stroud a 2:0 cushion at half-time.
The second half started at the same sedate pace but Katherine Willoughby scored a fantastic goal, her first for the 1st XI squad and well-deserved after her hard work and determination. After this Stroud really did relax and Portishead were awarded several penalty corners towards the end of the game but, unfortunately for them, never looked capable of scoring. The game was well and truly won when Sarah Cook found the smallest of gaps in the Portishead defence to score a fine far-post goal.
Stroud never really got out of second gear but still managed to come home with maximum points, knowing they had played the better hockey.
Woman of the Match : Katherine Willoughby (right inner)