Maidstone 5 - Ashford 1

Maidstone faced newly promoted Ashford this weekend. After a mixed start and some good play from both sides, confidence in Maidstone's defence Hannah Durston, Rachael Ferguson and Ellie Scott settled the game. From there Maidstone started playing with confidence and after some lovely team passing up the pitch caught Ashford on the back foot, with Claire Weddle having a 1 on 1 and Louise Cassey supporting her to secure the first goal. Shortly after a great attack from Weddle led to a deflection from Lesley Price to make it 2-0. Maidstone continued to apply pressure from the midfield with a great pass from Laura Jackson on the right to find Emily Bush back post, who flicked the ball safely into the net. Maidstone were shining in the first half and all the hard work paid off with another well worked team goal with Katie Gibbons finishing to make it 4 nil. Ashford continued to have counter attacks and great saves by Becky Ward and defending from Grace Mansfield kept Maidstone in control. Close to half time, Rachel Davies, playing in her second game for the 1s, intercepted an Ashford defence ball, and smashed it into the backboard to make it 5 nil at half time.

The second half saw a lot of frustration with numerous chances from Maidstone, including Lizzie McClintock hitting the post, a close short corner from Cath Green and some fantastic saves from the Ashford keeper. Maidstone continued to apply pressure with further great runs and touches from player of the match Claire Weddle but with no result. Near the end, Ashford managed to catch Maidstone on the break and a well striked shot made the final score 5-1.