In an edge-of-the-seat final that went to the wire, Blandford & Sturminster Ladies faced Southampton University Ladies 3s in the Hampshire Senior Ladies Vase.
Nerves were evident on both sides, culminating in a tense, evenly-matched first half. Blandford earned four short corners, each denied by a commanding performance from Southampton’s keeper. The opposition responded with two of their own, both confidently saved by Zena Parry.
But the momentum shifted in the second half. Southampton failed to register a single shot on goal, while Blandford found their rhythm. Southampton’s growing frustration culminated in a green card for a foul on Justine Turnbull – though Justine herself, eager to maintain momentum, also received a green card shortly after.
Blandford continued to press. Jenny Smith had a goal disallowed when a whistle blew for a stick tackle just milliseconds before the ball crossed the line. Soon after, Justine took a free hit from the edge of the D, drove left and passed to Susan Bovensizer, who executed the signature “Bovensizer Classic” – a sweeping reverse hit that thudded into the backboard. But again, the goal was disallowed: the umpire ruled Justine hadn’t travelled the required five metres before passing into the D – a decision hotly contested by the crowd.
In the final minutes, Blandford dominated. Shots flew at the Southampton goal – Maddie Cowley’s sweep went agonisingly wide, Laura Robinson’s effort skimmed past the post, and Jenny struck the post itself.
Full time: 0-0. Penalty shuffles loomed.
In this format – a player runs from the 22-line and must score within eight seconds – the pressure is immense. Susan Bovensizer stepped up first, but the imposing presence of the Southampton keeper forced her shot wide. Southampton converted their opening attempt. 1-0.
But Jenny Smith responded with her trademark composure and a confident reverse hit to bring it level. Zena Parry then delivered a sensational save, sprawling across the goal to deny Southampton’s second. Caroline Smith followed her sister, beating the keeper for pace and slotting home. 2-1 to Blandford.
Zena was unstoppable. She forced the next Southampton player wide, holding her off just long enough – the ball went in, but outside the eight-second limit. Georgia Turnbull was next, dragging the keeper wide before rifling the ball into the goal. 3-1.
Southampton had to score – and did, just clinging to hope. But Laura Robinson stepped up with the chance to seal it. The satisfying thud of the ball striking the backboard ended it all.
Cheers, screams and tears of joy followed as the Blandford Ladies sprinted to embrace Laura and Zena – a fitting end to a dream season. A Vase, a league title, and promotion: the ultimate treble.
