SOHC Under-14 girls got the season off to a flying start on Sunday, writes Louise Hastie.

This is the first time that the club has put a girls team into the Devon U14 Development League and they have done the club and their coaches proud. The club had actually entered two teams after Plymouth Marjon were unable to field a B team.

SOHC A kicked off with a match against the much bigger Plymouth Marjon club and came away with a much deserved 3-3 draw. Special mention must go to Emilia Smith for some fantastic saves in goal to keep the scores level. Next up were SOHC B who came away with a fine 2-1 win against ECVH.

After that the teams intermingled to create a super squad with seven on the pitch and seven on the bench all keen to step up to the plate. The next game was against local rivals Exe and the girls managed to beat them in a thrilling match, 4-3 win. There was some excellent hockey played with real teamwork employed to create a fast flowing and exciting game.

The team finished the tournament with a game against Okehampton A. The girls by now had real self-belief in their ability as a team and it showed with another win this time finishing a resounding 4-1 up.

Top goal scorers were Flora Hastie and Aimee Keast with five goals each. All this and only one trip to accident and emergency! Get well soon Abi! The team’s next outing is on November 9, when they come up against the county’s premier club ISCA, but on this performance they should be able to them a good run for their money! The girls would like to say a big thank you to all of those that have supported them from the senior club.

Anyone interested in playing hockey from year four upwards, please visit the club’s website for details of training times- www.sidmouthandotteryhc.co.uk