West Women's Hockey League

Berkeley Division One

Thornbury 0 Wotton-under-Edge 0

A THOROUGHLY enjoyable and hard-fought encounter between Thornbury and Wotton ended goalless.

For the first 15 minutes, Thornbury dominated the midfield with open passing and creative positioning that demanded much rearguard action from the visitors.

Sophie Wilkins in the home goal was called upon to make a number of excellent saves to deny the high-flying visitors and Thornbury were saved on the half-time break when a Beccy Chalmers shot from Wotton’s fourth penalty cannoned off the post out of play.

Wotton’s improvement continued into the second half and Thornbury only managed a couple of forays into Wotton’s circle.

But a stoic defence and some lack of finishing meant that only three shots were mustered and all were stopped by the busy Wilkins.

Becky Jones had a fine game in defence for Thornbury, who welcomed back Rachael Gardner from injury, with the midfielder giving her usual livewire performance , creating a couple of chances for Sian Fuller and Annie Beurschgens.

Wotton were handicapped by an injury to frontrunner Heather Reid and sound performances came from Sharron Bates and captain Cathy York.

Katie Bridgeman was outstanding for Thornbury, who were also well served by Elaine Arnold, Shelley Beurschgens and Elaine Dreyton .

Holly Weir looked comfortable in a wide role for Thornbury, combining effectively with the club’s younger brigade, Emma Beurschgens, Tracey Jones and Charlotte Fox.

Leila Grey impressed in the midfield for Wotton, while Josie Buist and Emma Chalmers showed class and player-of-the-match Anna Patteson added impact to the forwards.

This was a valuable point for Thornbury against a good Wotton team.

Thornbury visit Westberries thirds on Saturday in search of their first win since fixtures resumed in January.

Thornbury seconnds entertain South Gloucs on Saturday at Castle school (10.30am).

Bethan Brown’s side’s game on Saturday against Avonmouth was cancelled because of an unfit pitch.

Thornbury thirds are also at home against Bristol and West (midday), hoping to return to winning ways after a heavy 6-0 defeat at Lydney thirds.