Fine win on the road lifts Carmarthen to second spot
CARMARTHEN Hockey Club Ladies second XI were in fine form as they travelled to Pencoed to face Bridgend Seconds.
Stakes were high as all that separated them in the league table was goal difference, which was in the home side’s favour.
The first half was even, both teams making quick breaks but Carmarthen’s back three of Emily Stibbs, Delyth Rees and Ellie Routley cut off most of Bridgend’s advances and conceded just one short corner.
Coupled with a couple of outstanding saves from goalkeeper Lydia Pearson, Carmarthen denied Bridgend’s best efforts and it was goalless at the interval.
Bridgend started the second half on the front foot, but excellent Carmarthen defence again kept them out.
And quick passing by the midfield through to forward Yasmin Burgess-williams gave the visitors a real chance.
The ball made its way to Siriol Richards, who fired beyond the home keeper to give Carmarthen the lead.
Carmarthen’s midfield of Lucy Davies, Mari Davies, Kate Howell, Tirion Evans, Phoebe Burton and Poppy Mackenzie-jones worked tirelessly and another break gave Charlotte Harries a chance to increase the lead and she slotted it home to put her side in command.
With a two-goal buffer and with just 10 minutes to go, Carmarthen refused to let up and controlled the majority of possession. And they wrapped up the points after another fine break when Ella Bailey slipped the ball into the net.
Richards was named player of the match.
Carmarthen are now in second on their own and their next league game is at home against tabletopping Cardiff and Met Sixths on March 12.