Badgers keep league victory dreams alive on Doomsday

Halloween spirits were out in force on Saturday 31 December as Welwyn Garden City
arrived at the Badger Field to take on the mighty Broxbourne Ladies 2s. Memories of last
year’s bitter defeat hung in the air, even in the absence of 2019’s antagonist Ali Deol, who
may or may not have been lurking in Hoddeston area seeking revenge on Welwyn’s
aggressive centre forward.

The coldest, wettest day of the year and the looming spectre of lockdown didn’t stop the
crowds gathering at the newly named Tara Haddock Grandstand. Even 11-week old Willow
made her first public appearance to join the doggies of Badger Field. Rumours that owner
Helen Cheal was forced to fend off concerned RSPCA officials have been vigorously denied
by all involved.

And Broxbourne Ladies 2s did not disappoint the hordes of socially distanced fans, who –
even amid confusion about Boris’ 546 th U-turn – refused to break Covid restrictions and
huddle for warmth. Jugs of San Miguel which, in accordance with the government’s latest
booze regulation, had not been ‘taken away’ just moved to a different location, provided
the necessary heating.

Overcoming a first five-minute display, which was described by coach Mark Pannell
(channelling his inner Jose Mourinho) as “the worst hockey he has ever seen”, the Badgers
managed to gain the upper hand, stringing together lovely passes through the defence and
midfield and winning several short corners.

The first goal came from the stick of the joint winner of the Fosters Player of the Match, Vic
Boulton – a neat slot into the bottom left corner. Ever reliable defence from Poppy Brewer,
who joined Vic at the player of the match medal ceremony, and Helen’s stunning charge
down of Welwyn’s Usain Bolt left the Badgers 1-0 up at half time.

A half time pep talk from Mr Mourinho and an immune-boosting dose of sweets increased
the Badgers’ confidence. Megan Boxall managed to put away a second goal to give
Broxbourne some breathing space.

Welwyn’s increasing desperation for a goal of their own, which included a blatant attempt
to get centre midfield Lauren Fixter sent off did not unhinge the Badgers game. Broxbourne
ended the wettest game of hockey in history with a 2-0 victory – goalkeeper Kim Hellery’s
second clean sheet of the day. The Badgers sit in second place in the league – just two
points shy of Bedford and with a massive goal difference of 22 – as the UK goes into a
month of lockdown. See you in December!