DUE to a break in the Staffordshire League programme for a second week, Stafford LHC firsts played host to a friendly fixture against last season’s county champions Uttoxeter on Saturday.
After an even start, with chances created by both sides, the opening goal fell to Stafford when Rachel Humpage got a decisive touch after a scramble in the circle.
Uttoxeter levelled the score not long afterwards but Stafford continued to attack and were rewarded with two further goals before the break both from penalty corners.
The first was deflected into the roof of the net by Amy Sharman, the second being a direct strike from Becky Blakey.
Although Stafford had a two-goal advantage the balance of play throughout the second half was still quite even.
Uttoxeter took advantage of their pace upfront to create several scoring opportunities, even hitting the post twice within a few seconds but an outstanding display in the Stafford goal by Sam Ferguson kept them at bay.
The final Stafford goal was finished off by Kelly Brown after a superb passing move saw Stafford work the ball out of defence, through the midfield and into the circle at pace splitting the Uttoxeter defence.
It was great preparation for Stafford, who resume their league fixtures at home to fourth place Leek seconds this Saturday.
