The semi finals of the Investec England Hockey Over 35's Cup brought Whitley bay and Tynemouth Women's Team aka The Donkeys a home fixture against Bowdon Ladies. The match was held at The Parks, North Shields on Sunday 13th March 2016 with a good turn out if local support for the home side which was greatly appreciated.

The Donkeys quickly realised that they would need to be straight out of the stables as soon as the whistle had blown with Bowdon bringing some well known players in the shape of Sally Walton,Team GB and Tina Cullen MBE, former Team GB.

The first half saw pressure from both sides however the visitors took advantage of their breaks with Sally Walton opening the scoring with the half score being 0-3.
As in similar matches in this competition The Donkeys had a squad of 15 and in the second half the home side utilised their rotation of players to ensure involvement from all and rest for those who needed it!

The Donkey's determination paid off with a great team effort from the forwards resulting in a goal by Janice Hutton. Bowdon came back with two more goals before Whitley Bay forward Ange Crane scored a fantastic goal striking the ball into the far corner beating the Bowdon keeper.

The Bowdon team sealed their victory when The Donkey's keeper was green carded resulting in a flick to the visitors and a further final goal by Sally Walton finishing the game at 2-7.

Although not reflected in the score the game was end to end with a valiant effort put in by the whole team led by Ali Gordon. This is a progression from last year's competition where the club reached the quarter final. The Donkeys therefore hope that next season will see them trotting all the way to the final.