Joy for Maids

In their last home game of the season, Maids put a show of the kind of guts and determination that has seen them succeed this season as they overcame British Airways 2-1.

This was a much-improved performance from Maids, who, in the end, deserved to win an often feisty encounter at Altwood.

It was Maids who made the stronger start, dominating possession with their slick brand of attacking hockey pushing BAA back time and time again.

And so it was no surprise when Maids took a 15th lead, when man of the match Grey Joy rounded off an impressive short corner routine to make it 1-0.

Maids should have extended their lead before half-time, but despite some high-intensity hockey neither side was able to create clear cut chances.

Maids emerged for the second half determined to press home their advantage.
But despite getting behind their opponents, chances went to waste. BA were lifted by Maids’ wastefulness and scored a deserved equaliser, rattling in from a short corner.

As both sides went in search of a winner, it was Maids who began to impose themselves once more. The pressure eventually told as Jeremy Bodey showed exquisite composure to score from 10 yards.

The hosts had to weather 10 minutes of intense pressure from BA but held out for three more valuable points.
First team captain Neel Sood was delighted.

He said: “It was a fantastic result for us - BA are a good side but we were the better side on the day and played the better hockey.

“Most importantly we showed real guts to finish off that game because at 1-1 either side could have pinched it and even when we went 2-1 up the opposition hammered us, so credit to all our players.”

Maids now have a week off before their final game of the season. Sood added: “We can enjoy our week off over Easter before our last game this season at Ramgharia.
“Another three points would be a good way to cap off a good season for us.”