We were a little short on numbers today but everyone played their socks off and we couldn't be more prouder of everyone following the game.

This was our first meeting with Hillsborough Girls, and although it was their first season together, they were up for the game and so we could tell from the first whistle, it was going to be a great game of football.
From the off, Hillsborough were quickest out of the blocks and were not giving our girls long on the ball. Replicating this in training is always difficult in terms of players needing to make their own decisions and so it took them a little while to settle in to the game.
Hillsborough were certainly on top in the first half but Boden in goal was making some great saves and the dangers in defence were being dealt with by Laiya and Harla.
Half time didn't come quick enough as our girls had been working hard, chasing the ball and needed a 5 minute break to reset. At half time we talked about decision making and it was suggested that maybe we don't always have to go with the sensible pass, maybe try something a little more ambitious or if there is space to dribble the ball forward, give this a try instead.
2nd half, we certainly held our own more and played with some more freedom, running at defenders, passing longer up the pitch and scoring some great team goals.
Boden in goal was still very busy and also varied her distribution which helped us turn defensive into attack.

Scarlett worked hard in the centre of the pitch, getting crucial tackles in when required. Eryn ran at defenders, creating chances for the team to score, and Laiya worked so hard all game, up and down the pitch with a desire to win the ball at every opportunity.
Our players of the game this week were shared;
Boden in goal made some great saves and was clever with her goal kicks and was complimented by the opposition coaches.
Harla, ran the length of the field so many times, getting involved in defence, and driving the team forward at every opportunity.

The game had everything, crunching tackles, individual skills, team passing moves, the goal frames were struck many times by both teams and there were plenty of smiles at the full time whistle.....(part of this may have been because it was one of the opposition players birthday and she shared sweets with everyone)

It was a competitive game, enjoyed by all and we replay the fixture next weekend away at Hillsborough, a game which will hopefully be just as exciting as this one.