MARLOW cruised into the fourth round of the Hockey England National Vase Knock-Out with a 3-0 victory over Hampshire side, Petersfield, when they met at Bisham on Sunday.

The Bucks side were pushed onto the back foot for the first 15 minutes, as Petersfield's pacey forwards took Marlow's defence by surprise.

But Marlow rose to the occasion and were soon in the ascendancy with some excellent moves forcing a number of short corners.

The pressure told, and Ali Wheatley was able to coolly despatch a penalty flick to give Marlow the lead at half-time.

In the second period, Marlow took control of the game, with some excellent attacking forays by player of the match, defender Mel Burrows.

The Bucks side secured their victory with two well-taken goals from Caroline Goodman.

Further goals should have been forthcoming from Marlow and a late offensive by the visitors made for an exciting last ten minutes but Marlow held firm to keep a clean sheet and advance with confidence into the fourth round.

Marlow resume their Trysports League Division One activity on Saturday with a return fixture away to Abingdon.

The Oxfordshire side will be looking to reverse the 5-0 loss they suffered to the current league leaders at the start of the season.

January 21, 2003 10:00