West Women's Hockey League

Berkeley Division One

Avonmouth 1 Thornbury 0

A YOUNG Thornbury side gave a promising display against a strong Avonmouth outfit, going down to a narrow defeat.

Thornbury were missing key players while other members of last season's squad have left to join other clubs.

The young players who came into the side distinguished themselves with some pleasing hockey.

Tessa Wheatley formed a strong defensive trio with Beccy Jones and Elaine Dreyton, whilst Ellen Morgan, Izzy Hunter and Ella Wheatley showed great promise, indicating that the departed will not be greatly missed.

Evergreen Tracey Jones, along with livewire Rachael Gardner, showed good composure and Bethan Brown was dependable in goal, making a number of fine saves.

Lauren Upham and Sarah Brownhill also showed a number of delicate touches in attack.

Thornbury have a tough encounter on Saturday when Lydney seconds visit Castle School, 12 noon.

The seconds entertained Chippenham in a friendly on Saturday and, despite a sound performance, they could not find the net and ended up losing 2-0. Meanwhile, Thornbury thirds travelled to Swindon to play North Wilts seconds in Berkeley Division Three and, after a gutsy performance, returned home with a point in a goalless draw.

Thornbury seconds visit BAC 2nds on Saturday for their first league game, whilst Bristol visit Castle School to play the thirds, 10.30am.