LAUNCESTON were unlucky not to gain at least a point from this fixture in a highly competitive hard fought match, writes Vicki Banks.

Once again Launceston were without a goalkeeper so the responsibility fell to captain for the match Tanya Gribble to stand in at short notice. Lack of a full-time 'keeper seems to have been Launceston's downfall this season as each week we are having to sacrifice an out-field player and asking them to don the helmet and kickers and attempt to play in a position that don't feel at all comfortable.

Launceston's resident 'keeper, Becky Clifford, has improved greatly throughout the season and it's unfortunate for the team that she often has work commitments on Saturdays. It's clear to see the improvement in the team when Becky is playing as we have the confidence to push forward knowing we have a strong 'keeper behind us. If anyone is interested in playing in goal for the hockey club even if it's just the occasional Saturday please feel free to come along to training on Wednesday evenings at the Launceston MUGA 7pm.

So back to Saturday's game, Launceston started extremely well and were controlling the game with some great passing through the midfield. Launceston kept pushing forward and looked the likely team to open the scoring. However, it was Marjons that found the back of the net when they broke up the right hand side of the pitch and crossed the ball into the D which somehow managed to get past several defenders and was slotted into the corner.

Launceston had the majority of the possession and didn't let this affect their game and they really pushed for the equaliser. Michelle Roberts had to come off injured after 20 minutes after a ball struck her foot; so on came Louise Dawe who forced a short corner after just a moment on the pitch. Launceston were unable to convert the opportunity but kept pressing forward.

Sharon Trewin had an excellent game in the middle and was a constant threat to Marjons. Launceston's defence remind solid throughout the rest of the game in particular Jo Maynard who made some great tackles and ensured Tanya in goal had little to do.

Launceston were really unfortunate not to equalise and did deserve something from this game as this was by far one of their best team performances for a long time.

Team: Tanya Gribble, Nes El'cock, Jane Gardner, Jo Maynard, Faith Chevannes, Di Stanbury, Jan Grahame, Janine Pethick, Vicki Banks, Michelle Roberts, Louise Dawe and Sharon Trewin.