After Millmoor kicked off, it seemed as if Charnock were determined to recreate the early part of the friendly match between the two sides with us being on the back foot and needing a series of excellent saves by first half keeper, Myla, to keep us in the game. Our defence had a lot of work to do, but having been a bit slow out of the blocks they warmed to the task and, along with Myla’s excellent clearances, managed to repel the seemingly constant attacks on our goal. Forays into the Millmoor penalty area were few and far between, though a long throw on the right hand side led to a great chance for Gracie which went just wide, and Lillia also shot past the post.

The start of the second half saw an immediate improvement by the girls from an attacking perspective. Amelia shot wide after being through on the Millmoor keeper and the whole team looked brighter but we were still at risk after a good shot from the edge of the box by our opposition left us seemingly facing a mountain to climb.

However, the girls then showed their fighting spirit, having spells of pressure for the first time in the match. Amelia powered through again, only to have her shot saved, while Neveah was becoming a real threat down the left wing cutting inside and having a couple of attempts on goal. With the clock running down, it was a far more even game, and, although second-half keeper Maisie also excelled on occasions between the sticks, the girls were really fighting hard with plenty to play for within the game.

Lilla was starting to dominate the midfield with terrific runs and shots from the edge of the box and Layla’s predatory instincts were great to see.

The girls’ tails were up and Millmoor’s defence was struggling as Charnock continued to press into the final stages of the game with the final whistle coming just as we were getting into full flow.

All in all, a promising start to the season with the girls showing real character and not letting their heads drop. The Millmoor manager said as much, telling our coaches that if we keep that spirit this season, we will fly!

Great stuff girls.