Kingston Diamonds 2-2 Sheffield Shadows

Sunday 6th December 2009

back to Div1 Fixtures

The preparations for this game started badly for both teams. The Grimsby Staff failed to inform the respective managers that the changing rooms were out of bounds, resulting in the Sheffield girls getting ready in the first floor squash court changing room and the Diamonds outside in the public gallery! Some of the Sheffield girls were not shy in expressing their dissatisfaction, but with their home ice having some of the best facilities in the country you could understand their shock! Fortunately the on ice activities were conducted with far more professionalism!

The first period was reminiscent of the first time that these two teams met with end-to-end play and numerous opportunities, but none resulting in a lead with the period ending 0 – 0.

The start of the second period being much more of the same however Sue Hemmerman proved that not only can she stop goals she can score them and put the home side in the lead. Unfortunately this was short lived when an unlucky defection equalled the scores. The Diamonds experienced a little more bad luck when Dawn failed to make a clean catch getting caught high and dry allowing Sheffield to score an easy goal!!

The third period started with Sheffield in the lead. Mike Soper adjusted his tactics to play 2-line hockey, which paid off in the form of an equalising goal from Becky Craig. This was followed by an unexpected fight in front of the home net. Kirsten Deighten retaliated to a cross check which resulted in a match penalty for both players. A penalty considered a little harsh for a senior hockey game! With both teams desperate for a game-winning goal both teams stepped up a gear. Dawn had to pull off a “do or die” sliding poke check which for once went in her favour. The Sheffield keeper was equally tested but both held their nerve to the final buzzed with each team only taking one point. Spirit of the game for both sides was Number 3. Shots on Sheffield were 23 and Shots on Kingston were 38. The next Diamonds game will be at home to Whitley Squaws on Saturday 12th December at 7:30 pm.