A TIGHT affair saw Loch Lomond Hockey Club held at home to Ayr II in a 1-1 draw on Saturday, November 12.

The West District Division 4 tie has historically been a tough fixture and this game was no exception. The home side got off to a good start and managed to pin Ayr in their own half, putting pressure on their defence and playing the high press.

They could not make the pressure pay until 10 minutes into the first quarter. Loch Lomond were awarded a penalty corner.

Despite pressure from the oncoming Ayr defenders, striker Gillian Finch stayed composed and slammed the ball low into the left-hand corner of the goal.

Ayr did manage to break through a few times but the Loch Lomond defence were able to clear their lines and prevent any shots at goal.

Midway through the third quarter, against the run of play, the visitors flooded the Loch Lomond D and the Loch Lomond defence found themselves outnumbered.

The extra player paid dividends and Ayr slotted home an equaliser. Ayr were ready to fight for every ball looking to grind out a win, but Loch Lomond were equally up for the fight.

With both sides competing ferociously, the game did get a bit heated. However good umpiring kept the lid on anything getting out of hand.

Loch Lomond had most of the possession but were unable to capitalise. They did drop their game slightly and had to hold off a short period of Ayr pressure but defender Fiona Thompson seemed to be everywhere picking up the ball and clearing it.

Late into the game Ayr did have a clear-cut chance in front of goal to win the match but keeper Anne McGregor somehow managed to get her foot to the ball and was able to deflect it round the post.

Despite winning numerous penalty corners throughout the match, Loch Lomond could not find the winning goal.

The Loch Lomond midfielders battled well for every ball and tried to feed the forwards who managed to work the keeper but the Ayr defence held out well.

Lots of positives to take from this match; 100 per cent effort from all players and great team spirit.

Opposition player of the match was given to Helle Cordner. Player of the match was jointly awarded to both Fiona Thompson and Chloe Scherius, with Eliza Ritchie getting runner-up.