3's got ladies day off to a flying start with a hard fought win against a Maidstone team who had put 3 unanswered goals past them in a pre season match.
Ops started the stronger, with midfielders Carris, and Janman aggressively winning the ball high up the pitch, linking with Cheese, Dani and Phoebe, and applying constant pressure. The opening goal seemed inevitable, but there was a distinct element of fortune. Pollys through ball missed by everyone, only to thump off the inside of the post and rebound straight to Em for the tap in. That shocked the visitors into action, and they slowly began to increase the pressure, before levelling from a fast break.
After the break Maidstone pressed with a far greater intensity. Defensive unit Geds, Emma and Shaz expertly marshalled the fast attackers, constantly intercepting, while Sue was quick off her line to clear any through balls. As the half progressed, Maidstone pushed even higher, which left space for Ops to exploit. Izzy worked tirelessly to break and win the decisive penalty corner. Polly fired the ball into the corner to give Ops the lead after good work from Baxter. A confidence boosting first league win for 3's who will travel to Dartford next week.