After their recent run of good form, Chelmsford were disappointed with both the scoreline and their performance against a Sutton side which up to Saturday's match had failed to win a single league point this season.

It was not the greatest game of hockey. Sutton looked the more eager of the two teams, with Chelmsford appearing rather jaded and lethargic, growing ever more frustrated with missed chances and a string of puzzling umpiring decisions.

The visitors certainly looked to have a spring in their step despite their lowly league position.

Olympian Jane Sixsmith looked comfortable in possession and was often at the heart of Sutton's better moments although it was 'player of the match' Kate Thomas who really caught the eye in the centre of midfield for the Midlanders.

However, it was Chelmsford who took the lead with the first clear cut chance of the game midway through the first half.

Captain Jo Green capitalised on a defensive error and drove into the circle drawing the last defender before slipping the ball to Lynn Bollington who kept her composure to sweep the ball past the keeper to put the home side ahead.

Neither side really created anything clear cut after this and the score remained the same until half-time.

After the break Chelmsford continued to struggle to find their form. Their passing was erratic and they lacked any real drive.

Despite this and the fact that Sutton grabbed an equaliser, they still created several good chances which could have won them the game.

Sutton's equaliser came first and Chelmsford were disappointed with the way it was conceded.

It was a scrappy goal which was forced in following a goal mouth melee.

After this Chelmsford created three golden opportunities to reclaim the lead.

Bollington, twice, and Kirsty Smith were the culprits and between them they should have taken one of the chances to secure a win.

Despite some good possession, Sutton could not fashion many goal attempts with Chelmsford goalkeeper Katie Roberts only called in to serious action on two occasions.

The home side who nearly stole it right at the end but Green's lifted shot from a penalty corner was saved and the chance had gone.

A share of the points was probably greeted with more satisfaction in the Sutton camp than in the Chelmsford one.

Chelmsford Coach Karen Brown could not hide her disappointment, saying, "That's probably the worst we've played all season. Hopefully it's just a hiccup because we've done well so far. We will certainly have to do better next time out."

Chelmsford will have to improve this weekend as they make the trip to table topping Ipswich.

It will be a tough local derby and Chelmsford will have to be at their best to get anything out of the game.

They will be hoping that influential striker Tracy Willmore will be able to return to the side, although she is doubtful after missing the Sutton Coldfield game with a dislocated shoulder.

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