Whitley Bay vs. Ben Rhydding

Whitley Bay had an eagerly anticipated fixture against Ben Rhydding this week. Having put in a good performance only a few Saturdays ago, and frustratingly not returning home with any success, they were on the hunt for 3 points. A delayed start due to a closed A1 near Catterick gave Ben Rydding less preparation time and Whitley Bay was keen to capitalize on that from the start.

Unfortunately a good start was not to be, and a Whitley Bay defensive error led to an early 6 minute goal from Laura Smith to put Ben Rydding ahead. With Whitley now on the back foot they had a lot of work to do, and battled hard in the first half, amidst some physical play from Ben Rydding and some controversial umpiring decisions. Whitley gradually began to pick up momentum in their play with several short corners won and some excellent linking play form Cailtin Gray and Phillipa Harmison almost led to a late first half goal. Half time score Whitley Bay 0 Ben Rydding 1.

In the second half Whitley continued to enjoy possession of the ball and with some good defensive out letting and linking from midfield players we were able to create overloads across the pitch and penetrate the attacking circle. A number of opportunities were had by Whitley and a penalty corner, won by Beverley Finlay, was finally converted by Joss Plummer in the 55th minute. However this well deserved goal was not to last and a penalty corner given against us was converted in the 57th minute by Sarah Bell. With time running out Whitley battled as always and kept working hard until the end but were unable to score another goal. Final score Whitley Bay 1 Ben Rydding 2.

Whitley go into the Christmas break in 7th position and with 12 points; lots to work on and lots to prove when we return in February to play Wakefield Ladies.