The Tornados took to the pitch for a 19:50 pushback against long-time rivals SCC, expecting a tough match. The game started with SCC applying heavy pressure, forcing our defense to work hard from the outset. Despite relentless attacks, we held strong and managed to keep them out in the first quarter.

*First Half: Defensive Grit Under Fire*

The second quarter was where the damage was done. SCC managed to score twice in quick succession, taking advantage of their sustained pressure. Despite this, our defense remained rock solid, repelling countless penalty corners with disciplined execution. A big shoutout to Sophie, who unfortunately took a hit to the ankle the day after her birthday celebrations while putting in a crucial defensive effort.

*Second Half: A Different Game*

Half-time gave us a chance to reset, and we came back looking like a completely different team. Adjusting to their zonal defense, we focused on short passes into pockets of space rather than forcing long balls through the midfield. This shift in play paid off, as we began to create more attacking opportunities in their half.

Our persistence paid off when we won our one and only penalty corner, which Naru converted with a perfectly executed straight strike. That gave us a 100% success rate on attacking PCs, in stark contrast to SCC’s 0% conversion rate, thanks to our rock-solid defensive corner unit.

SCC thought they had a third goal in the final quarter, but their lifted first shot on goal during a PC was ruled out.

*Key Performances & Final Thoughts*

Sarah and Jess put in an outstanding defensive performance, using their experience to frustrate SCC’s forward line. They even joked that their combined age was probably higher than the opposition’s entire front line. Meanwhile, Min was immense in goal, making insane saves and earning a well-deserved Woman of the Match award.

While the final score didn’t go our way, the second half showed what we’re capable of. We adapted, fought back, and gave SCC a serious challenge.

*Shoutouts:*
MOM: Min - countless crazy saves
TIT: Ines (me) - I forgot my water bottle on the bus on the way to the match and accepted a kiddy plastic bowl from Liz as a drinking vessel when there was a vending machine right behind me
Defensive Rocks: Sarah & Jess
Goal Scorer: Naru - cracking straight strike on our PC
Toughest Shift: Sophie - birthday ankle sacrifice