North Devon Ladies too strong for the Culm Valley Hornets

North Devon Hockey Club Ladies’ 2nds welcomed Culm Valley Hornets on a beautiful sunny Saturday, setting the stage for an energetic and confident performance from the home side.

From the very first whistle, North established control of the game, applying pressure high up the pitch and demonstrating excellent use of the short, quick passing style they had been working on in training.

This approach allowed them to maintain possession effectively and dictate the tempo throughout the first half.

Their early dominance paid off with a superb opening goal from Caroline Williams, whose strike not only broke the deadlock but also lifted the team’s confidence noticeably. With momentum building, North continued to push forward, creating space and opportunities through intelligent movement.

Beccy Addison capitalised on this, expertly losing her defender before making a well-timed run and calmly finishing to double the lead. The first half ended with North Devon firmly in control at 2–0.

Culm Valley responded positively after the break, coming out with renewed determination and putting North Devon under increased pressure. They created several promising attacking runs and earned a number of short corners.

However, North’s defence remained resolute throughout, stepping up when it mattered most and working cohesively to deny the visitors any clear chances on goal.

As the second half progressed, North Devon regained their composure and control. Strong link-up play and continued attacking intent saw them create further opportunities. Beccy added her second goal of the game with another well-taken finish and Kathryn Mitchell also got on the scoresheet, rounding off an impressive attacking display.

The match was a testament to North Devon’s all-around team performance, combining disciplined defending with sharp, effective attacking play. Despite facing sustained pressure, particularly through what felt like a relentless series of short corners, the team held firm and maintained their clean sheet.

In the end, North Devon secured a well-deserved 4–0 victory, reflecting their hard work, teamwork, and growing confidence on the pitch.

Elsewhere, the Men’s 1s drew at home with Ashmoor 2s, the Ladies’ 1s beat Bridgwater 0-1 on the road and the Men’s 2s lost away to Exeter 2s in a 7-1 defeat.