SHC Sirens 1 - 1 Berrylands 1s (H)
By Charlotte Coltman
“The Great 1-1 Compromise”
In a shocking turn of events for a British weekend, it didn’t actually rain. Sirens faced Berrylands at home in a match so evenly balanced it felt like a choreographed dance, ending in a 1-1 draw - the sporting equivalent of a firm handshake and a mutual agreement.
The Goals (Or, "How to Surprise Everyone")
The Surbiton Opener: Claire J sent a ball up the line with such precision it could have been delivered by the Royal Mail (if they were having a particularly good day). Nao then sprinted like she’d spotted the last available seat on a Friday evening train, crossing it to Sarah, who smashed it home. It was clinical, it was efficient, and it was deeply satisfying for everyone except the Berrylands keeper.
The Berrylands Equaliser: Berrylands responded with a fast ball up the line that caught us all a bit "mid-thought." Before we could even consider a tactical mutter, the ball was in the net. It was very sudden, very brisk, and honestly, a bit of a cheek.
Points of Note
The Victoria Factor: Victoria spent the afternoon performing "amazing hits." By which we mean the ball was struck with such velocity it’s a miracle it didn’t leave a cartoon-shaped hole in the fence.
The Return of Jo: Jo was back and playing so well you’d never know she’d been away. She slotted back in with the quiet competence of someone who knows exactly where the spare keys are kept.
Tactical Genius: After a first half that was a bit "after you, no, after you," the defence played much higher in the second. This bold strategy of "standing closer to their goal than our own,” worked wonders.
An amazing team effort all round. It was a competitive affair that remained perfectly poised, ensuring that both teams could leave the pitch without any lingering social awkwardness. We’ve come away with a point, our dignity intact, and - most importantly - dry hair.
POM - Surge who was everywhere on the pitch and got a ball-dimpled knee for her efforts.
Wally of the Week - Charlotte who whilst writing the match report, thought we had lost!
Thanks to Wendy and Simon for umpiring.