CAC Games Qualifier: Illness-Hit Bermuda Fall to Mexico
IslandStats.com
Bermuda's women's field hockey team faced a challenging encounter in their second match of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games Qualifying Tournament, succumbing to a 5-0 defeat at the hands of host nation Mexico. Despite a determined effort, the Bermuda side, with several players reportedly battling illness, found themselves outmatched by a clinical Mexican outfit.
Mexico 5 Bermuda 0
Mexico Starting Line-Up: - Mariana Agraz, Brenda Moreno, Ximena Noria, America Sosa, Maria Rodriguez, Fernanda Guzman, Gala Plata, Maria Ramirez, Sofia Perez, Dariana Cardiel, Naomi Cardiel - Substitutes: - Cristina Ortiz, Miriam De Los Rios, Dana Jasso, Valeria Espinoza, Melanie Cruz, Nancy Castillo, Melanie Torres - Bermuda Starting Line-Up: - Christina Stephens-Weser, Alyssa DeSilva, Georgia Harris, Elizabeth Stewart, Grace Lighttowler, Jessica Hollis, Chrysda Smith, Megan Troake, Abigail Brewer, Jennifer Chisnall, Amber McHugh - Substitutes: - Mackenzie Heaney, Robin Stempel, Heather Sinclair, Elizabeth Davidson, Zaynab Brown
The opening quarter remained scoreless, offering a glimmer of hope for the Bermudian squad. However, the complexion of the game shifted after the break. Mexico introduced substitute Melanie Torres, who promptly broke the deadlock. The momentum swung further in the hosts' favour when another substitute, Melanie Cruz, doubled their advantage, leaving Bermuda trailing 2-0 at the half-time whistle.
Mexico continued their offensive pressure in the third period. Ximena Noria added a third goal to the tally, further denting Bermuda's hopes of a comeback. The Mexican substitutes continued to make their mark, with Cristina Ortiz becoming the third from the bench to find the back of the net, extending the lead to 4-0. America Sosa then added a fifth, leaving Bermuda with a mountain to climb in the final quarter.
Despite the scoreline, the final period saw a resilient defensive effort from Bermuda. They managed to hold Mexico at bay, preventing any further damage and providing a platform to regroup ahead of their next crucial fixture. While the result will be disappointing, the final quarter will offer a small measure of encouragement as they look to shake off the effects of illness and refocus their efforts in the tournament.
