MINEHEAD & West Somerset Hockey Club’s Ladies played away to Exeter Women’s 4s in a closely contested and entertaining match - which ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw.

The game began at a high tempo, with both sides exchanging possession and showing attacking intent. After ten minutes of competitive, end-to-end hockey, Minehead broke the deadlock. Amy Tisshaw struck confidently from the top of the D, firing the ball into the corner to give the visitors an early and deserved lead.

Exeter responded well, capitalising on an interception to create a clear opportunity, which they converted to bring the scores level. The remainder of the half saw both teams continue to battle hard, producing strong runs, determined tackles, and a series of scoring chances at both ends.

Impressive goalkeeping by both ends kept the score at 1–1 going into halftime - with the prospect of another half of exciting hockey.

Following an energising team talk from coach Freddie, along with tactical adjustments to cope with the challenging, beach-like pitch conditions, Minehead returned to the field with renewed focus.

However, Exeter regained the advantage after a hectic short corner resulted in a goal for the home side to go 2-1 ahead.

Minehead showed great resilience, launching repeated attacking moves with determined runs up the pitch. Despite earning several short corners, they were unable to convert their chances.

However, with just five minutes remaining and determined tpt get something out of the game, Minehead’s persistence paid off. A well-worked move saw the ball played up to Kate, who delivered a precise pass across the D to Hannah Sparks.

She met it perfectly, deflecting the ball into the top corner to level the score at 2–2. Both teams pushed for a late winner, but solid defending ensured the points were shared in what was a hard-fought draw which neither side deserved to lose.

Lavender Hill Holidays Player of the Match for Minehead was awarded to Molly Rucklidge.

Minehead men’s seconds played away to North Somersets 2nds at Gordano, and were caught off guard as the whistle went with North Somerset pushing straight through the visitors’ midfield into the D and winning a short corner. This came as a surprise and was not expected, so Minehead needed to sharpen up.

Fortunately, nothing came of the short corner but Minehead needed to switch on. They turned things around within ten minutes and had three goals on the board - PJ opening up the scoring followed by two from Pilch including an excellent drag from a short corner. The last 15 minutes of the half saw a first goal for Brandon Rawle and one more from Pilch. Minehead led 5-0 up at half time.

Though Minehead dominated the score line, the match was tough, with their midfield fit and having multiple chances at goal. Steve Clapp managed to save the shots they did manage to get away. The second half saw two further goals to end the game with a 7-0 win.

Minehead managed to make the most of their chances, and their short corners resulted in goals and they managed to hold the opposition attackers at bay. Skipper Joe Bolton was happy with the result despite it being hard earned, and they remain top of the league with two games left.