Sonning Ladies entertained Basingstoke in their second and final friendly. With some players not available, this gave Sonning the chance to see some of the current second team play, and some other players the chance to play in different positions. Coach K had 3 further formations to try out and the players adapted quickly to each formation. Sonning played 3 goal keepers in this game and they all made good saves – especially when in 1 on 1 situations. The first period saw Sonning take an early lead as their first shot corner strike from new captain Katharine Pike hit a foot on the line and saw Claire Gallimore step up to send the penalty flick high into the net. A great passing move started in defence saw Anneliese Churchill add a second. The clean sheet was preserved mainly because goalie Harri Dakin was alert in keeping out a couple of 1 on 1 situations with sliding saves. The second and third periods saw formation changes, good passing, good variety of attacking plays, strong defence and goal keeping and the home side winning several short corners (none of which they converted) Further goals were scored by Anneliese and 2 from Wendy Doolin. Further goals were prevented by Sonning keeper Charlotte Norris who played the final period for Basingstoke. An excellent preparation for the league season with good performances from a number of players including Laura Grassick, Erica Wong and the goalies, and those players who played well in different positions – Katy Lauder in midfield and attack and Lucy Faulkner who played midfield, defence and sweeper in this game after playing striker and midfield last week. Just goalie left to play Lucy!!!!.
The night ended with an excellent curry from chef Sergei and the first cake of the season from Lucy. The team look forward to the first league game at Slough on Saturday knowing this will be tough as Slough won the league last year but were not promoted because of a technicality