Marlow win again to keep the pressure on Banbury
After two matches without a win in the league, Marlow got back to winning ways against Basingstoke at Pound Lane to keep the pressure on leaders Banbury ahead of next weekend’s clash between the division's pace setters.
Marlow were well on top, but despite forcing a series of chances from short corners they were frustrated for most of the game until Freddie Pollard finished off an excellent move for the hosts.
Having settled their nerves, they then settled the game a few minutes from time with a well-taken strike by Cameron BeazleyClarke.
Marlow sit second, just a point behind Banbury who they visit on Saturday.
The men’s second team dominated their game against Banbury, but their search for a first win since October goes on after the hosts fought back to share the spoils.
Having been foiled several times in a frustrating first half, Banbury took the lead shortly after half-time following a defensive error. Marlow rallied well and took the lead through goals from Isaac Maddern and Charley Hunter, but with just minutes remaining Banbury scrambled home an equaliser to crush their hopes of victory.
Marlow’s women’s team fought back from two goals down to take a point from Saturday’s home clash with Oxford Hawks 2nds.
The visitors drew first blood, scoring after seven minutes, and – although Marlow had plenty of chances – they doubled their lead after 25 minutes.
Marlow keeper Alys Ramm saved their initial shot but could do little about the follow up.
Maddy Peacock’s positive play helped drag the side back into contention and they were rewarded when Kesia Richardson slotted home from a penalty corner.
Richardson then levelled the scores with a goal from a penalty stroke, after it hit a Hawks’ foot on the line.
The team had three players making their debut, Helena Sykora, Tilly Brown and Rachel Clarke, who were all outstanding.
Tilly and Rachel joined their older sisters on the pitch to make it a family affair.
The women’s 2nd team fell behind for the first time this season in Saturday’s clash at Alton 1sts, but they showed their resilience to recover for a 3-1 win.
Julia Westnedge fired home before Ellie Lane lifted the ball over the keeper after an initial shot was saved. Eva Barnett then got in behind the backline to tee up Lane for her second of the game to maintain Marlow’s perfect start.
There was also a large programme of junior matches on Sunday while the over 40s Masters team played their opposite numbers from Bristol Firebrands, pulling off a fine 5-2 win in the Over-40s Cup. Their goals were scored by Adam Boyden, Ewan Hunter, Tim Frost and two by Robin Walls.