Loch Lomond Hockey Club's first team were unlucky to lose by the only goal against Clydesdale's fifth XI in their latest league fixture.

Loch Lomond’s squad knew they were in for a hard match from start to finish away to a young, skilful and energetic Clydesdale team, against whom working in pairs, moving the ball about and opening up play were going to be crucial.

And throughout the game Loch Lomond achieved those aims very well, but despite creating several chances in front of goal during an evenly-matched first half, the visitors were unable to make the breakthrough thanks to a combination of strong defending and good goalkeeping.

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Loch Lomond came out a very different team in the second half after a constructive team talk from captain Vanesa Sabala and supporter Dave; the visitors worked hard for each other and continued to press forward, with some great passes and linking play, starting from the defenders all the way to the strikers, but Clydesdale’s stalwart defending made it hard and prevented the strikers from scoring.

Loch Lomond’s defence played some beautiful hockey, passing the ball from right to left, opening up the play and allowing the midfield to make some lovely runs forward.

But against the run of play Clydesdale made the breakthrough thanks to an unlucky moment for goalkeeper Heather Smith, who looked to have a shot covered only to slip at the last minute, allowing Clydesdale’s Zoe Monaghan to slot home the opening goal.

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Loch Lomond picked themselves up and pressed forward with some great linking play, working relentlessly as a team and showing some great skills and tenacity, but despite dominating much of the second period and keeping Clydesdale pinned back in their own half for long spells, the visitors were unable to find an equaliser.

Despite the result Loch Lomond couldn’t be faulted for their team spirit and their encouragement for every player, but there are plenty of things to work on at training and, hopefully, to take into the next game.

Kirsty Richardson received the player of the match award, with Evie Harkins runner-up, while Clydesdale chose captain Vanesa Sabala as their player of the match.

Many thanks to John Friel for umpiring.