Having played every summer hockey league game in pouring rain it was great that the new hockey season began with glorious sunshine, writes Sarah Cloke.

Having played every summer hockey league game in pouring rain it was great that the new hockey season began with glorious sunshine. With a full strength squad available for the friendly fixture, and Sidmouth captain Lea Pidgeon's arrival with clipboard and pages of notes, the team hoped to erase the memories from the teams' previous encounter in the league last year. Sidmouth dominated the opening minutes of the game and, before long, won a short corner. Despite forgetting to discuss corner routines before the game, a neat passing routine forced a save from the keeper, which Vicki Tarr responded to quickest, and her tiger-like reactions put Sidmouth into the lead. With Chloe Munn and Janet Jones at the heart of the Sidmouth defence, the opposition struggled to break through. The pair were ably supported by Sarah Hutchings and Caroline Bickerstaff, both adapting to their new positions exceptionally well, and they had the pace to support the midfield and generate attacking play whilst also chasing back to defend.The lead was extended when Taryn Bethuin found the time to skilfully curve the ball behind the goalkeeper from an almost impossible angle. ECVH pulled one goal back before Vicki Tarr scored her second to maintain the advantage. ECVH did look dangerous on the break and forced Sidmouth keeper Hayley Delasalle to save at full stretch, before they eventually converted their second goal.Having a squad of 13 enabled Sidmouth to rotate players and fresh legs helped the team dominate in the second half. Lucy Broad, Karen Cann and Anna Cloke worked hard in midfield, building up several strong attacks. It was one of these attacks that saw young player Lottie McMahon round off a fine performance by scoring through the keeper's legs.During the post-match analysis the promising start to the season was linked to almost full attendance at Ronnie Moore's Ottery training sessions. Apparently the action now outweighs the conversation! l Junior training has also recommenced on Sunday mornings 10.30am -11.30am at the Sidmouth College pitch. All ages and abilities are welcome to come along and join in the fun.