February 28, 2019, by Charlotte Gauja
Ladies Lacrosse leave legacy at sell-out #GreenandGold Headliner
Last night the University of Nottingham ladies’ lacrosse first team fought against Oxford University for a place in the BUCS Conference Cup Semi- Finals and ultimately a spot in the BUCS Big Wednesday Final here at University of Nottingham. After an intense match with support from crowds of over 400 #GreenandGold spectators, it unfortunately didn’t go Nottingham’s way as a strong Oxford side took the win. The final score was 6-10.
Crowds gathered at David Ross Sports Village as the Nottingham girls stepped onto the pitch looking confident, wearing headbands in support of Kenya Lacrosse.
The whistle went for the first draw, starting the competitive fixture and it was all to play for. Oxford had the stronger start to the game. They controlled possession and fired numerous shots at Nottingham’s goalkeeper, Shannon Alstine. Shannon seemingly effortlessly blocked all shots on goal until a powerful drive from Oxford got through Nottingham defence and ended in a goal for Oxford 10 minutes in. Nottingham bounced back with two goals in quick succession – scored by Alys Cowx and Izzy Yates. Within just a few minutes the score was 2 – 1, but this early lead didn’t last long. The latter part of the first half saw controlled, settled attacks from Oxford. Gradually, Oxford extended their lead.
Half time was called at 3 – 6 and it was clear that Nottingham would have to up their play to win the game. Co-Captain, Philly Stacey, started the second half scoring within the first minute of play. However, Oxford were quick to return a goal and the score bounced between the two teams.
Despite great play from the team, including an impressive interception from Olivia Castro and fast breaks from Bella Bowater, Nottingham just could not keep Oxford out. As the time in the second half came to an end the score widened to 6 – 10 and the game finished in a win for Oxford. A score that perhaps doesn’t reflect the level of play from both teams in a game that was fast and skilful.
A gutted Co-captain, Alys Cowx said “Unfortunately it didn’t go our way today but we’ve had a fantastic season. Obviously, a win would have been nice but I wouldn’t change this group of girls for the world.”
Commenting on the team; Head Coach, Claire Faram said “We are disappointed with the result, this is a team we really hoped we could go the whole way with, they have worked so hard all year. Oxford played amazingly and they had some dominant players especially their goalie.”
A great game to watch, but a sad ending for the ladies’ lacrosse first team. We wish all the best for Oxford in their semi-final match against Cambridge on 13th March.
Catch a replay of the live action here: https://www.facebook.com/pg/UoNSport/videos
You can follow the journey of our teams to BUCS Big Wednesday here.
No comments yet, fill out a comment to be the first
Leave a Reply