Another win sees Phoenix ladies keep pressure on the leaders

Essex Women’s League division one

Phoenix Hockey Club's ladies continued their winning streak against a determined and well-organised Havering side to keep the pressure on the Essex Women's League division one's leaders.

The hosts looked strong from the outset and keeper Chloe Bull had a relaxed first half with Havering unable to get through the Phoenix defence.

Phoenix had several opportunities but the finishing was wayward, which has been a frustrating feature of the season to date.

Rather than in open play, the breakthrough came with a well-rehearsed short corner routine, with a deft slip pass by Emma Fulcher laying on a chance for Joella Sandstra-Bennett, who slotted the ball into the net.

Phoenix came out following the break recognising the danger of a slender lead, so pressed for opportunities with renewed vigour.

To their credit Havering were tough in defence and it was the penalty corners that came to the rescue again.

Midway through the second half a Havering defender was unlucky to get her foot out the way and kicked the ball off.

The resulting penalty flick was put away by captain Hannah Philp.

It was just in time too, as Havering countered and managed to get one back following a goal-line scuffle.

Facing an edgy last phase, Philp stepped up again and saw her side home by sealing the match with her second and Phoenix’s third with a clinical finish when it mattered.