This was without doubt Essex Opens best performance of the season. On this occasion they were rewarded with their first victory.
It was a game in which Essex went 3-0 up early on and they held their lead for the whole game.
Essex started well and soon found themselves in the lead early on. However, both sides were very impressive in the attacking circle and matched each other goal for goal. From 6 all during the first quarter both teams matched each other with the centre pass and there was only ever a single goal in the game. With Leah Hayzelden and Maddie Oshodi shooting well, when the whistle went to the end of the first quarter Essex had a slender 18-17 lead.
The second quarter was where Essex won the game. They continued to create chances with Nicole Alves , Sara Biss and Rebecca Wilks dominating the centre court. The shooting circle of Hazelton and Oshodi continued to impressive. Defensively Essex tightened up in the second quarter Jo Odeogberin and Johanne Linehan making difficult for The Downs shooters. From 23-21 up Essex took the initiative in the rest of the quarter and when half-time arrived had a comfortable 34-26 lead.
Looking to win their first game of the season it was important that Essex started the third quarter well. On this occasion they did totally dominated the first part of it scoring a further 6 goals without response to effectively seal the points.
They continued this dominance for the rest of the quarter and when the whistle went Essex led 49-33.
Essex started the last quarter well and consequently they were able to make a number of changes. Olivia Edwards came on for her regional debut and did very well. Rebecca Meade and Sophie Sefton also came on to good effect. Towards the end inevitably Essex took their foot of the paddle and allowed The Downs back into the game. indeed they actually edged the last quarter but when the final whistle went Essex were comfortable winners and enjoyed their first victory of the season.

Odeogberin, Linhan, Alves, Biss, R Wilks, Hayzelden, Oshodi, Edwards, Mead, Braiden Sefton and N Wilks