The 1XII Women’s Lacrosse went down 10-6 to Durham in a hard working performance which ultimately saw them struggle against an excellent counter-attacking unit in this early season top of the table clash.
However, the score doesn’t quite tell the story as Birmingham truly lost this game in a few frenetic first half minutes where they conceded five goals without reply after previously battling back from 2-0 down to level affairs at 2-2.
Going into the second half 7-2 down was a daunting task, but certainly not one the girls shirked from. Following some rousing support from the crowd, seemingly re-invigorated, the team at one point brought the score to back to 9-6 with just a three point deficit, however two sin bins collected by Claudia Button of 2 and 5 minutes respectively hindered Birmingham’s momentum. The referee was certainly not holding back with his cards, however to pinpoint the loss on his involvement would unfair. Ultimately, Birmingham were too frequently stretched on the counter and subsequently exposed.
Regardless, man of the match Birmingham ‘keeper Harriet Side kept her team in it at times, particularly at 2-0 down in the first half with some excellent saves, and despite visible frustration on the pitch she can come out of the game holding her head high. Additionally, Taya Jackson was an engine in the midfield, and skipper Jennifer Aiton led admirably and certainly by example, showing some excellent graft in defence.
Off the back of an excellent away win against Loughborough, the girls should look to put this one behind them, and whilst they will have been disappointed to lose today against their main league rivals, should be set up well for a successful season.
Jack Fantham
