East Premier League Sevenoaks II 0 Ipswich 4 Ipswich showed how much they have grown as a team by dispatching a good Sevenoaks side 4-0, writes Emma Millar.
The win was even more impressive as Ipswich coach Mariette Rix was not at the match due to work commitments at Woodbridge School.
Rix, however, had a ideal replacement, in the guise of last season’s co-captain Charlie Anderson and her handling of the team was crucial in Ipswich’s win.
The match started superbly for Ipswich, taking the lead within 5 minutes – a short corner converted by an inspired Chloe Williams.
Despite the setback the home team remained a threat but great tackling by Ellie Scott, Kristine Ayling and Kat Blake ensured any danger was neutralised.
The few times Sevenoaks did manage a sight of the Ipswich goal, keeper Ali Barham was in her usual top form to deny them.
Half-time saw the game finely balanced but Anderson pointed out a few areas that could be improved and Ipswich started the second half ready to do just that.
Within 10 minutes Ipswich had extended their lead, a great ball from Ayling found Micha Knowles and her turn and shot of the bouncing ball was straight from the training ground.
Ipswich were now flying and minutes later scored their third, player of the match Sophie Sexton with a sublime reverse stick shot from a tight angle.
The fourth and final goal came from Williams after a one-on-one with the goalkeeper.
With 15 minutes still to play Sevenoaks could have given up but they won a run of penalty corners.
The Ipswich defence were not in the mood for surrendering their clean sheet though and saw off the danger to finish the game at 4-0.
With the news that chasing teams had dropped points Ipswich are now four points clear at the top of the league, having played one more match.
The final game this weekend before the Christmas break is another tricky away test against Canterbury 2’s and Ipswich will have to be at their best once again to keep their run going.
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