Suboptimal performance sees the Ladies 4s remain in relegation zone

suboptimal
sʌbˈɒptɪm(ə)l/
adjective: sub-optimal
1. of less than the highest standard or quality.

The last time Lewes encountered South Downs they were without many of their regular players and suffered a 4-0 defeat. This time, with a pressing need to subtract themselves from the relegation zone, they needed to improve on that performance.

However, although Lewes’ game was strung together correctly, it lacked a certain je ne sais quoi and fell short of what was required. That’s not to say that they played badly, they just didn’t play well enough to win.

An incident of insubordination during the first half nearly resulted in the sending off of twice-whacked Cloddy ‘Sub/Dom’ Love.

The goal, when it came, in the second half was a sublime effort by South Downs who intercepted a sloppy Lewes pass and scored on the break.

Lewes’ efforts were further hampered with Captain Mould sustained a knee injury. Super sub Sue Storey was the elected Centre Mid replacement but the ladies ran out of time (did someone say 4 minutes?) to gain the equaliser.

Lewes were finally beaten into submission and conceded that this had been a sub standard performance. However, they now know that hockey is a game of 2 halves. Even if one half is shorter than the other.

Zoe Richards (Sub Editor).