BRETFORTON Ladies over 45s are just one step away from playing at Lee Valley Hockey Centre in London thanks to a resounding 7-1 victory over renowned western outfit Clifton Robinsons in the England Masters O45s National Shield.
Two years after the Pink Ladies’ over 35s reached the prestigious final in the capital, Bretforton’s over 45s are dreaming of glory at the Olympic Park after a brilliant last-eight win in which Andrea Cole scored four goals.
Wise words from coach Julie Stowe had Bretforton fired up and they surged into a 3-0 lead inside the opening quarter of an hour thanks to a hat-trick from Cole, including a brave and spectacular diving effort at the far post.
Bretforton’s players were thrilled for Cole, who has just returned from a long-term injury, and they were even more delighted when the ageless Deb Slatter, who set up most of Cole’s goals with sublime crosses, bagged a brace to make it 5-0.
A scrappy goal got Clifton on the scoresheet but Rosemary Logan made it 6-1 before Cole’s fourth goal of the game put the icing on the cake.
Bretforton now await their semi-final opposition, which will be one of the well known Southgate, Kingston-upon-Hull, St Albans or Letchworth.
Bretforton Ladies would like to thank all those who came to watch and support in freezing conditions, coach Stowe, the umpires and Jane and Sue for organising the day.
BRETFORTON Ladies 2nds were 10-0 home winners over Lansdown 4ths in West Clubs Women’s Hockey League Severn Division Three on Saturday.
The victory leaves Bretforton top of the pile – three points above second-placed Bourton & Sherborne 2nds who have a game in hand – ahead of the sides’ meeting at Bourton on Saturday.
Lucy Cole made an instant impact, scoring the first of her four goals in the first ten minutes.
Player of the match Amy Ball had an excellent game with some excellent runs on the right and a hat-trick of goals.
Captain Andrea Cole added another two and Isla Clayton took the total into double figures.
Bretforton’s first team were also victorious as they saw off visitors Cheltenham 3rds 4-3 in Severn Division One.
With four matches remaining – the first of which is Saturday’s match at lowly Lansdown 2nds – the Pink Ladies are a point clear at the top.