It is customary to begin each match report with an observation about the weather. On Sunday 16th August, such an observation is not only traditional but fully warranted. Basically, we are truly hardcore. In the past we may have played in rain, mud and sleet but never before have we played in snow. Such was our dedication that the opposing team had even called the local paper in case they wanted to get a picture of the stoic women of Division 4 facing off against each other at Te Whaea early Sunday evening. As it happened, even the paparazzi were too wussy to show up... unlike our faithful (and usually only) supporter.

Anyhoo, enough about the weather. A team of 12 faced off against the more experienced Div 4 Petone team and Daniel was kind enough to perform reffing duties (which would have been warmer than watching from the sidelines at least). There was talk of playing 2 x 30 min halves but it was decided that we would at least play a 45-min half and then see how we go for the second half.

The first half was extremely testing as not only did we endure snow followed by heavy sleet but, as Petone had won the toss, we also were playing into the wind. Some of our players had donned rubbish bags to protect against the elements so the flap of plastic rang in their ears as they were defended against an attacking Petone. Once again, Daniel forecast that it was a 2-goal wind so we were pretty pleased that at half-time Petone was only one up. After what seemed like a barrage of very good corners taken by Petone, they managed to get a good shot on goal at close range. With lightning quick reactions Toni got two hands to it but it went up and behind her - Anita was there ready to clear it but all did not go as planned and the ball bounced cruelly into our goal.

Never mind. We were counting on the 2-goal wind helping us in the second half. It was not the wind but Petone themselves who kindly assisted us with our goal. Meg got hold of the ball right in front of goal and did a perfect little pass to Jess who smashed it towards goal. It was probably going in anyway but a Petone player gave it a definite helping foot and we drew even.

We were far more attacking in the second half with our own share of corners, unfortunately none of which resulted in a goal. But Petone played a good passing game and also managed to make the odd break. Towards the end of the second half there were quite a few such breaks and Toni pulled off some heroic saves which was impressive given she probably couldn't feel her hands. Unfortunately, one such attack proved too much for us and Petone managed to tap a sneaky goal into the net in the last 10 minutes. At half time Daniel had said we should definitely play the full 45 minutes in the second half because "put it this way, do we want them to have the wind for 45 minutes and us for only 30 minutes?" In hindsight, the answer might have been "yes".

Player of the day was Liz who really was a force to be reckoned with in mid-field managing to intercept many of Petone's passes. Everyone had a great game, especially given that many played the full 90 minutes. Special mention to poor Toni for making it through without succumbing to hypothermia (as far as I know).

Ah well, at least it shouldn't be snowing this Sunday when we play the Wellington United Rubys again. Last time we won 4-0 against them but we did have the benefit of Helen and Niki from the other team. But we're so tough I have no doubt we can get a similar result again - after all, we played in friggin' snow!

Naomi Wallwork