BUDE Ladies faced undefeated Plymouth Marjons on Saturday. Having discovered that two teams will gain promotion into Premier One this year, Bude needed to secure at least one point if they were to hang onto their second place spot and be in with a chance of promotion.

However, despite some good defending from Pam Johns, Caroline Hobbs and Miranda Pomeroy, it was the university side who opened the scoring in the first half.

As Bude's nerves started to slip away they began to play some good hockey. Naomi Hatcher, Sam Horn and Di Old took control of the wings while Emily Horn and Robyn Pengilly managed the middle.

Leanne Stanbury picked up some great balls in the middle before sending them on to Briony Varcoe, Tammy Snowsill and Perdi Sobey up front. It was Briony who levelled the scores for the home side.

A short corner was awarded not long after from which Tammy Snowsill took Bude into the lead. Her lifted shot flew into the net over the 'keeper's head.

With only a couple minutes to go before the half time break, Marjons were awarded a number of short corners, one of which they converted.

The visitors came out fast and furious in the second half. As a green card had already been given to Bude, Caroline Hobbs' foul meant she was shown a yellow and had to leave the pitch.

During a short corner, Marjons' lifted shot put them back in the lead. With only ten players, Bude showed great commitment and control denying the visitors chances to capitalise on their lead.

Caroline returned to the pitch and rejoined Kirsty Heslop and player of the match Miranda Pomeroy in defence. Miranda had a fantastic game blocking shots and clearing many off the line. Jo Timmins in goal also put in some fine saves to keep the scores at 3-2.

Although a disappointing result, strong umpiring resulted in an enjoyable and equally matched game of hockey. This week Bude are away to Taunton and will need to come away with all three points.

Bude:  Perdi Sobey, Briony Varcoe, Tammy Snowsill, Leanne Stanbury, Sam Horn, Di Old, Naomi Hatcher, Emily Horn, Robyn Pengilly, Miranda Pomeroy, Kirsty Heslop, Caroline Hobbs, Pam Johns and Jo Timmins.