Southend and Benfleet 1’s travelled to Maldon for a rearranged fixture knowing it was always going to be a tough game against well-drilled Maldon. S&B started well, with Player of the Match Kerry Amos making brilliant runs up the left hand side, linking well with forwards Chloe King, Ashlie Bolton and Lily Cole. Maldon were very quick on the break and gained themselves many short corners in a row, which were expertly defended by Amos, Charley Edwards, Nina Dabbs, Kendall Coleman and goalkeeper, Carmel Kenny. It was only a matter of time before Maldon broke the deadlock, with a short corner strike deflected into the corner. S&B were not deterred however, keeping on the attack and going into the break just 1-0 down.

The second half started much the same as the first, with end to end play making it a very tiring match for the midfield, chasing the ball up and down the pitch. Some expertly placed aerials from Maldon over the top of the midfield caught S&B off guard, leaving them exposed for a second goal to be scored, giving Maldon a 2 goal lead. With determination, S&B got straight back on the attack, with some fantastic passing play from Adele Cole, Nic Bryant and Caitlin Meredith speeding the ball up the pitch, finally landing with Kerry Amos who slotted the ball passed the keeper at an angle which defied all the laws of physics! 2-1 and S&B felt like they were back in the game. S&B continued to frustrate 3rd place Maldon, with superb attacking and defending. Maldon did manage to sneak one more goal in, leading to a 3-1 loss for S&B 1’s, although a pleasing performance from everyone involved.

Player of the Match Kerry Amos