Over a fortnight of sub-zero temperatures finally released their clutches on the pitches at Friedberg Avenue, the thaw sufficiently progressed to mean a return to football for the girls on a bright mid-December morning. POSH were our visitors and were raring to go according to their manager a few days before the game. The clawing conditions of the thawing pitch even in the warm-up suggested this was to be a difficult and physically demanding challenge.
Bishops Stortford started brightly and playing up the hill, spent the first few minutes pressing in on the Peterborough box, Scarlett, Simi and Inka were feeding the ball to Ellie-Mae on the right who was pressurising the POSH left back constantly in the opening minutes. Scarlett had an early shot saved and Simi put Inka through for an attempt that was thwarted by POSH's re-shirted keeper. The pressure continued, Ellie-Mae putting in a great cross into the box that no-one managed to meet before POSH finally escaped, Louise thankfully on hand to extinguish the potential danger as she challenged and put the ball behind. The resulting corner couldn't be cleared immediately but Skye pulled off a fine save to push the ball round the post. The second corner was dealt with with reduced dramatics and Louise and Abby combined with nice passing to bring the ball away.
Passing however was proving difficult, the ball sticking and bobbling in the clinging mud, quick feet shackled. The midfield became the match's battleground as possession switched from side to side, firm tackle following firm tackle. Moves were difficult to build and chances few and far between as the game unfolded, though Inka was unfortunate to be called offside on one occasion and Tia on another, both referee whistles denying them good scoring chances. A foul on Tia produced a free kick opportunity for Emily midway through the half. Her clean and powerful strike was tipped over and the resulting corner saved, the POSH keeper continuing to perform well between the posts.
Taking into account the balance of play it was a surprise then when POSH took the lead, a rare break by their quick forwards sent them bearing down on Skye's goal, the ball trickling home in slow-motion following a last minute challenge that put the visitors into the lead. A little stunned, Stortford were slow to respond and now looked to be struggling with the conditions and short of an idea to find a way of breaking back. Their task doubled in size a few minutes later as POSH scored a second when the ball wasn't cleared effectively in a moment of poor team defending.
Ellie-Mae made an early attempt to reduce the deficit with a surging run down the wing, but the keeper again denied the light blues. Emily retired early for the half after a knock, Abigail slipping into midfield with Ellie-Mae dropping back into defence, the whistle for the break following a minute or two later.
Changes at half-time, Emily returned to the defence with Abigail, Tyler and Faye coming on for Abby, Simi and Tia, and a call to all to up the intensity. The response was quick, Abigail finding Inka after robust work from Scarlett in midfield. Inka stroked the ball home to make it 1-2 and the game was on, Bishops Stortford now with a spring in their step and the bit between their teeth. Ellie-Mae moved the ball beautifully past the Peterborough midfield on one run, only for Faye to be flagged offside as the ball came through to her. Needing a rest, Lauren now replaced Ellie-Mae on the right and defended her flank strongly for the rest of the game.
Belief in the come back coursing through their veins, the Stortford girls set up attack after attack, working hard to win challenges and find an opportunity. Abigail put Faye through, who rounded a defender before shooting to win a corner. Faye had another attempt saved, Lauren too went close, Faye another two shots blocked, the pressure was mounting on the long travelling visitors before the equaliser finally came. Faye turned provider now, passing to Inka who calmly found the net and the score-line leveler. Having run herself into the ground Inka took a rest, Ellie-Mae replacing her in midfield and quickly made an impact when she picked out Abigail with a lovely pass, whose run could only produce a corner. A series of corners followed but the scoring touch just evaded Stortford, who were saved by Tyler with a decisive tackle when POSH broke upfield.
With a draw not good enough to keep the pressure on Cambridge at the top of the table, a formation change was made from the touchline with a switch now to 2-4-2, Louise retiring to make way for Tia to go upfront. Ellie-Mae nearly found the winner herself with another great run before Inka returned to replace Faye and join Tia in leading the attacking line. Shots rained in on the Peterborough goal - Tia, Abigail, Scarlett all had shots and all were defended. Seconds, then minutes slipped by, the game ticking to its close and still the light blues wouldn't settle for the draw. Inka intercepted a goal kick and then was inexplicably penalised when she won a tackle and found the net, some thinking the whistle was for a penalty. Stortford won a corner and then another, the referee checking his watch as the ball was set up for the corner kick. Emily sent it in, the ball dropped in the six yard area and Tia flicked the ball home high into the net, the tension released in a crescendo of cheers.
Defences were shawed for the final seconds, the whistle bringing ecstasy to Stortford and heartbreak to POSH whose great spirit and defensive commitment had kept the home team at bay almost to the close. A highly commendable performance from them.
This had been the team's greatest comeback victory and showed wonderful character from everyone in never giving it up. This was also the toughest of games in terms of the tiring conditions. Everyone and especially Scarlett, is to be congratulated for the hard yards they put in on the energy sapping surface. And special mention too for her inspirational support in the die-ing seconds from Jackie which brought the best out of Tia at the crucial moment and for Jason's call to the referee for the corner when he looked indecisive. Without both of you, perhaps the final goal might never have come!
Result: Won 3-2 (HT 0-2)
Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Louise, Scarlett, Inka, Abby, Ellie-Mae, Tia
Subs: Faye, Tyler, Abigail, Lauren
Scorers: Inka (2), Tia
Saturday 11 December 2010
Saturday 20 November 2010
U13s v Hormead Hares, League (away) - 20.11.10
The U13s were at their sublime best when they demolished Hormead Hares with a performance of great quality on the banks of the Quin in Hare Street. Large parts of the game saw them in total control of the ball, passing around the pitch and leaving the Hares chasing shadows and only occasionally getting a foot in. On five minutes the first goal came, Abigail firing home after picking up the rebound after Inka had hit the crossbar.
Ellie-Mae, playing up front to devastating effect and constantly a threat all morning, scored the second after being picked out with a lob pass from Emily and scampered passed 3 defenders before slotting home. Faye replaced Inka shortly afterwards, the midfielder retiring for a break after taking the ball in the face. The goals kept coming though, the next when Tyler sent a great pass through to Abby whose cross was met by Abigail for her second goal of the match. 3-0 to the visitors.
Skye and the wonderful defensive trio of Louise, Tyler and Emily dealt with minor skirmishes comfortably as the half proceeded, only occasionally called into serious action yet providing a base and outlet for Stortford's high quality passing. Their support play, always providing an option and seeing release passes for others were key to the control that the team maintained on the game. The girls all continued to pull the play around the field and probe for a point of weakness, retaining possession and growing in confidence with every pass. Inka and Scarlett owned the middle of the park that allowed others to play off them. Tia now replaced Ellie-Mae up front and it wasn't long before the silk footed striker found the net, finishing off a final pass received from Scarlett.
Half-time jelly babies and a couple of changes. Abby and Abigail taking to the bench, Ellie-Mae and Inka slotting into the midfield. Immediate pressure on the Hormead goal came in the form of two early corners, a strike on that hit the post before Faye moved the ball to Inka who carved the ball home. The team's sixth came from an unfortunate error from Anastasia in the Hares goal when she was unable to hold onto a searing low cross shot from Ellie-Mae after her scything run along the right hand touchline. A few minutes of half-chances came and went before Ellie-Mae again streaked down the right and sent in an even better ball into the box and path of the arriving strikers and defenders. Indeed it was a defender that found the net, unable to do anything but send the ball into her own net. 7-0.
Abigail came on for Tyler in the back line in another change to the blues formation. Three minutes later and another own goal was on the score sheet - same source as the first, Ellie-Mae sending the ball into a melee in the penalty area. A defender getting the last touch before the ball nestled again in the net.
Perhaps surprisingly Hormead were the next to score, their left winger Ami streaking down the right only to see her shot hit the post. The ball rebounded out and another shot this time found the visitors goal. 8-1.
Ellie-Mae completed her hat-trick with a run and shot from Abigail's throw-in, capping an exemplary attacking display that would have caused problems to the finest of opponents. Tyler replaced Scarlett for a run out in midfield and looked comfortable there for the rest of the game, going close to opening her season's account in the last quarter of the game. It was however Scarlett who scored the team's final goal once she had returned to replace Emily for the last minutes at the centre of defence. It was an outstanding solo effort - taking the ball after picking it up at the back on a never ending maze of a run through the defence, beating defender after defender, before rolling the ball home from inside the six yard box.
David Ginola observed on Wednesday that England did not seem to have the ability to string six passes together and were therefore never going to progress against the top footballing sides of the international game. The U13s have no such worries; their play at times was almost poetic, their vision wide ranging and their team-work untiring. They have potent weapons in many forms and are developing a variety of ways to play which will set them in good stead as the season progresses. A new benchmark has been set. Well done girls.
Result: Won 1-10 (HT 0-4)
Team: Skye, Tyler, Emily (c), Louise, Abigail, Scarlett, Inka, Abby, Ellie-Mae
Subs: Faye, Tia
Scorers: Ellie-Mae (3), Abigail (2), Tia, Scarlett, Inka, OG (2)
Ellie-Mae, playing up front to devastating effect and constantly a threat all morning, scored the second after being picked out with a lob pass from Emily and scampered passed 3 defenders before slotting home. Faye replaced Inka shortly afterwards, the midfielder retiring for a break after taking the ball in the face. The goals kept coming though, the next when Tyler sent a great pass through to Abby whose cross was met by Abigail for her second goal of the match. 3-0 to the visitors.
Skye and the wonderful defensive trio of Louise, Tyler and Emily dealt with minor skirmishes comfortably as the half proceeded, only occasionally called into serious action yet providing a base and outlet for Stortford's high quality passing. Their support play, always providing an option and seeing release passes for others were key to the control that the team maintained on the game. The girls all continued to pull the play around the field and probe for a point of weakness, retaining possession and growing in confidence with every pass. Inka and Scarlett owned the middle of the park that allowed others to play off them. Tia now replaced Ellie-Mae up front and it wasn't long before the silk footed striker found the net, finishing off a final pass received from Scarlett.
Half-time jelly babies and a couple of changes. Abby and Abigail taking to the bench, Ellie-Mae and Inka slotting into the midfield. Immediate pressure on the Hormead goal came in the form of two early corners, a strike on that hit the post before Faye moved the ball to Inka who carved the ball home. The team's sixth came from an unfortunate error from Anastasia in the Hares goal when she was unable to hold onto a searing low cross shot from Ellie-Mae after her scything run along the right hand touchline. A few minutes of half-chances came and went before Ellie-Mae again streaked down the right and sent in an even better ball into the box and path of the arriving strikers and defenders. Indeed it was a defender that found the net, unable to do anything but send the ball into her own net. 7-0.
Abigail came on for Tyler in the back line in another change to the blues formation. Three minutes later and another own goal was on the score sheet - same source as the first, Ellie-Mae sending the ball into a melee in the penalty area. A defender getting the last touch before the ball nestled again in the net.
Perhaps surprisingly Hormead were the next to score, their left winger Ami streaking down the right only to see her shot hit the post. The ball rebounded out and another shot this time found the visitors goal. 8-1.
Ellie-Mae completed her hat-trick with a run and shot from Abigail's throw-in, capping an exemplary attacking display that would have caused problems to the finest of opponents. Tyler replaced Scarlett for a run out in midfield and looked comfortable there for the rest of the game, going close to opening her season's account in the last quarter of the game. It was however Scarlett who scored the team's final goal once she had returned to replace Emily for the last minutes at the centre of defence. It was an outstanding solo effort - taking the ball after picking it up at the back on a never ending maze of a run through the defence, beating defender after defender, before rolling the ball home from inside the six yard box.
David Ginola observed on Wednesday that England did not seem to have the ability to string six passes together and were therefore never going to progress against the top footballing sides of the international game. The U13s have no such worries; their play at times was almost poetic, their vision wide ranging and their team-work untiring. They have potent weapons in many forms and are developing a variety of ways to play which will set them in good stead as the season progresses. A new benchmark has been set. Well done girls.
Result: Won 1-10 (HT 0-4)
Team: Skye, Tyler, Emily (c), Louise, Abigail, Scarlett, Inka, Abby, Ellie-Mae
Subs: Faye, Tia
Scorers: Ellie-Mae (3), Abigail (2), Tia, Scarlett, Inka, OG (2)
Sunday 14 November 2010
U13s v Sawtry, League Cup (home) - 13.11.10
A high workrate was maintained into the meat of the half and the girls finally found the net through a nice move when Tia and Ellie-Mae interchanged passes before Tia moved the ball onto Abigail who fired home only to be flagged offside. A chancey but sustained defensive effort from Sawtry looked to have secured first half parity until in the dieing minutes Stortford struck twice. Ellie-Mae and Louise combined down the flank to earn a throw-in which Inka sent through to Abigail. The hot shot forward took control and found the net for the game's opener. Persistence was rewarded no more than a minute later when Louise pressed forward and followed in to tap home after her first attempt was only parried.
Tia and Louise took a rest at the break, replaced by Lauren and Elly who joined the team in continuing to apply great pressure on the Sawtry goal. Ellie-Mae and Elly both went close before Sawtry had a resurgence, shooting wide with one shot and pulling a save from Skye with another. Their next attempt did produce a result when failure to clear the lines allowed them to poke home to half their trailing defecit. Stortford never looked in danger of conceding again and continued to rain shots in on Sawtry's goal, each one though finding the keeper. The two goal lead was restored though when Inka finally managed to avoid the keeper and found the net to make it 3-1. Tia produced a champagne moment right at the end, fully meeting a corner with a powerful header that just skimmed the crossbar. A nice victory and a good game. A home semi-final against Cambridge City in the spring the reward.
Result: Won 3-1
Team: Skye, Tyler, Emily (c), Louise, Abigail, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Abby, Tia
Subs: Lauren, Abby, Elly
Scorers: Abigail, Louise, Inka
Saturday 6 November 2010
U13s v Histon Hornets, League (home) - 6.11.10
Histon Hornets visited Freidberg Avenue at the beginning of November and the girls showed no leniency as they dished out a 7-0 drubbing to the girls in black and red. Stortford started brightly, a through ball to Simi was passed on to Ellie-Mae who saw her attempt go narrowly wide of the goal. Abby had a smart run down the wing and unleashed another attempt, saved well by the Histon keeper. A little later Histon earned themselves a corner and this proved their undoing as the Stortford girls defended then broke quickly through Abby who found Scarlett in a dangerous position. Scarlett shimmied past one, two then a third defender and virtually walked the ball over the line for the opening goal.
A nice passing move that saw the ball move from Abby to Scarlett who picked out the hard working Simi for goal number two. Simi continued her good work, linking with the ever dependable Louise to set up a nice break but goal three came when Scarlett picked out Tia who clinically finished in her own inimitable style.
The fourth score was another cracker, the unstoppable Ellie-Mae picking the ball up deep and then surging through Histon, a thunder-strike from her right boot sending the ball to nestle in the back of the net. Tia picked up her second shortly afterwards to make it 5-0, with Scarlett nearly making it six when a shot just before the break hit the post and rebounded out.
Into the second half and Elly was now patrolling the left flank. She hit gold within five minutes when a lovely move that started with Louise saw Faye surge down the right, pick out a pass to Tia in the box who slipped it onto Elly to find the net.
Ten minutes on and scoring was concluded for the day, this time when Scarlett went in a corner that Elly passed to Faye who slipped the ball goalwards and saw it find its mark just inside the post. With Lauren taking up the gloves in the second half, Skye went close with a couple of attempts but nothing more troubled the scorers and 7-0 it remained until the final whistle.
Result: Won 7-0
A nice passing move that saw the ball move from Abby to Scarlett who picked out the hard working Simi for goal number two. Simi continued her good work, linking with the ever dependable Louise to set up a nice break but goal three came when Scarlett picked out Tia who clinically finished in her own inimitable style.
The fourth score was another cracker, the unstoppable Ellie-Mae picking the ball up deep and then surging through Histon, a thunder-strike from her right boot sending the ball to nestle in the back of the net. Tia picked up her second shortly afterwards to make it 5-0, with Scarlett nearly making it six when a shot just before the break hit the post and rebounded out.
Into the second half and Elly was now patrolling the left flank. She hit gold within five minutes when a lovely move that started with Louise saw Faye surge down the right, pick out a pass to Tia in the box who slipped it onto Elly to find the net.
Ten minutes on and scoring was concluded for the day, this time when Scarlett went in a corner that Elly passed to Faye who slipped the ball goalwards and saw it find its mark just inside the post. With Lauren taking up the gloves in the second half, Skye went close with a couple of attempts but nothing more troubled the scorers and 7-0 it remained until the final whistle.
Result: Won 7-0
Team: Skye, Lauren, Emily (c), Louise, Scarlett, Inka, Abby, Ellie-Mae, Faye
Subs: Elly, Tia
Scorers: Scarlett, Simi, Ellie-Mae, Tia (2), Elly, Faye
Subs: Elly, Tia
Scorers: Scarlett, Simi, Ellie-Mae, Tia (2), Elly, Faye
Sunday 31 October 2010
U13s v Stevenage Borough, Herts County Cup (away) - 31.10.10
Moist air and eyes surrounded the team as they assembled in Stevenage for the next round of the Herts County Cup and a minute of silence before kick-off was observed in tribute to dear Malcolm, who will long be missed from our touchline.
Eleven a side was the format on a pitch that was a little undersized for the number of players, making for a compacted game in slippy conditions. However it clearly suited the girls, who all contributed to an excellent team performance. A strong opening from the visitors and the first goal came after five minutes, Inka firing home from a pass from Scarlett. Stevenage battled back but the four player backline of Louise, Tyler, Emily and Lauren were equal to everything, putting in fine tackles, Skye only occasionally called into action to make a save.
Midway through the half and Elly and Faye replaced Simi and Abigail, just in time to be part of the team's next score, Scarlett shooting home from the edge of the area. Abby was providing width on the right and good passing was stretching the play as much as possible, allowing the fleet footed winger to send in a series of good crosses. Goal three though came from a set piece, Emily's corner finding Tia who passed to Scarlett who picked up her second of the game.
Half time and Simi now came back on for Abby on the wing making some threatening runs throughout the half. After further chances fell to the blues, Skye pulled off a great save to deny Stevenage who were not completely stifled from the game, their occasional breaks keeping things competitive. Lauren and Tia were replaced by Abby and Abigail as the game went into the final quarter and time for a peach from Inka, cutting in from the wing and picking her spot in the corner. Stevenage didn't give up and earned a corner shortly after, then sent in a strike that though Skye got a hand to, couldn't keep out. 4-1 to the visitors.
Into the closing minutes and Scarlett looked to complete her hat-trick after a great midfield display. She hit the post with one attempt but finally got her third and the team's fifth with a classy finish from a pass from Abby, following Inka's corner.
Result: Won 1-5
Team: Skye, Louise, Tyler, Emily, Lauren, Simi, Abigail, Scarlett, Inka, Abby, Tia
Subs: Faye, Elly
Scorers: Inka (2), Scarlett (3)
Eleven a side was the format on a pitch that was a little undersized for the number of players, making for a compacted game in slippy conditions. However it clearly suited the girls, who all contributed to an excellent team performance. A strong opening from the visitors and the first goal came after five minutes, Inka firing home from a pass from Scarlett. Stevenage battled back but the four player backline of Louise, Tyler, Emily and Lauren were equal to everything, putting in fine tackles, Skye only occasionally called into action to make a save.
Midway through the half and Elly and Faye replaced Simi and Abigail, just in time to be part of the team's next score, Scarlett shooting home from the edge of the area. Abby was providing width on the right and good passing was stretching the play as much as possible, allowing the fleet footed winger to send in a series of good crosses. Goal three though came from a set piece, Emily's corner finding Tia who passed to Scarlett who picked up her second of the game.
Half time and Simi now came back on for Abby on the wing making some threatening runs throughout the half. After further chances fell to the blues, Skye pulled off a great save to deny Stevenage who were not completely stifled from the game, their occasional breaks keeping things competitive. Lauren and Tia were replaced by Abby and Abigail as the game went into the final quarter and time for a peach from Inka, cutting in from the wing and picking her spot in the corner. Stevenage didn't give up and earned a corner shortly after, then sent in a strike that though Skye got a hand to, couldn't keep out. 4-1 to the visitors.
Into the closing minutes and Scarlett looked to complete her hat-trick after a great midfield display. She hit the post with one attempt but finally got her third and the team's fifth with a classy finish from a pass from Abby, following Inka's corner.
Result: Won 1-5
Team: Skye, Louise, Tyler, Emily, Lauren, Simi, Abigail, Scarlett, Inka, Abby, Tia
Subs: Faye, Elly
Scorers: Inka (2), Scarlett (3)
Sunday 24 October 2010
U13s v S & T Academy - Friendly (home) 23.10.10
The beginning of half-term and new friends from Barking visited Grange Paddocks, providing great preparation for the Herts County Cup quarter-final the following week.
A frenetic opening ten minutes signalled what was to come - a thrilling and high quality encounter between two good footballing sides. End to end stuff from the start, S&T found the net after 5 minutes, their striker flying towards goal and finding a fine finish. Two minutes later and a free kick offered Emily the chance to reply, her outlandishly optimistic attempt sailing with pace over the fingertips of Barking's keeper and dipping under the bar - a remarkable strike, and not the first time she has done it. 1-1
The balanced score was unfortunately only temporary when Barking's striker again showed tremendous pace and power, the unlucky Lauren in goal unable unable to keep it out. Stortford were making their own opportunities though, Scarlett found the keeper with her strike, Ellie-Mae just failing to meet a corner and Simi doing some great work behind her.
Abby and Tia came on for Tyler and Simi, immediately into the action and there to see at close hand some brave goalkeeping from Lauren. S&T found a third goal before the break though, sneaking one past Lauren in unfortunate circumstances. 1-3.
Into the second period and Faye replaced Ellie-Mae on the wing, immediately linking up in a nice move with Inka and Tia. The intensity remained high, Barking dangerous on the break, Stortford tackling hard and looking to pass their way to success. It was the visitors who were next to score when their striker ran into the box and poked home clinically, but Stortford responded quickly when Faye found Tia who slipped the ball home . 2-4.
Time for a reshuffle as the game entered its final quarter - Simi and Tyler on for Abigail and Louise, all the girls getting a good taste of this high quality game. Two further goals in quick succession from Barking put a bit of a gloss on the scoreline from their perspective, but the team pressed on and took a great deal from the game, performing extremely well in the challenge presented them.
Team: Lauren, Emily (c), Scarlett, Simi, Tyler, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Louise, Abigail
Subs: Faye, Tia, Abby
Scorers: Emily, Tia
A frenetic opening ten minutes signalled what was to come - a thrilling and high quality encounter between two good footballing sides. End to end stuff from the start, S&T found the net after 5 minutes, their striker flying towards goal and finding a fine finish. Two minutes later and a free kick offered Emily the chance to reply, her outlandishly optimistic attempt sailing with pace over the fingertips of Barking's keeper and dipping under the bar - a remarkable strike, and not the first time she has done it. 1-1
The balanced score was unfortunately only temporary when Barking's striker again showed tremendous pace and power, the unlucky Lauren in goal unable unable to keep it out. Stortford were making their own opportunities though, Scarlett found the keeper with her strike, Ellie-Mae just failing to meet a corner and Simi doing some great work behind her.
Abby and Tia came on for Tyler and Simi, immediately into the action and there to see at close hand some brave goalkeeping from Lauren. S&T found a third goal before the break though, sneaking one past Lauren in unfortunate circumstances. 1-3.
Into the second period and Faye replaced Ellie-Mae on the wing, immediately linking up in a nice move with Inka and Tia. The intensity remained high, Barking dangerous on the break, Stortford tackling hard and looking to pass their way to success. It was the visitors who were next to score when their striker ran into the box and poked home clinically, but Stortford responded quickly when Faye found Tia who slipped the ball home . 2-4.
Time for a reshuffle as the game entered its final quarter - Simi and Tyler on for Abigail and Louise, all the girls getting a good taste of this high quality game. Two further goals in quick succession from Barking put a bit of a gloss on the scoreline from their perspective, but the team pressed on and took a great deal from the game, performing extremely well in the challenge presented them.
Team: Lauren, Emily (c), Scarlett, Simi, Tyler, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Louise, Abigail
Subs: Faye, Tia, Abby
Scorers: Emily, Tia
Saturday 23 October 2010
U13s v Comberton Crusaders - League (away) 16.10.10
Back again to Haslingfield, this time without our skipper who was sampling the delights of Manchester's finest at Old Trafford with her dad. That she returned still loyal to "the 'ammers" was a great relief to her mum, but I digress.
Squally showers scudded across the pitch, sharp contrast to our last visit but Stortford opened the game in spritely fashion, Inka finding Tia who forced a mistake from the keeper and just failed to reclaim the spill. More pressure, Scarlett thundering a shot from midfield over the keeper and onto the crossbar, Tia again just failing to find the net. Inka went close from distance, Ellie-Mae picked out Abby who earned a corner, the light blue machine was in full flow.
Comberton made occasional in-roads, but Skye and the defence looked comfortable, a long goal kick out to Tia bringing the next the chance to the visitors. Next Tia was flagged for off-side, a border line decision at best and after a few more minutes of Stortford dominance scored from a lovely ball from Scarlett, the home team linesman again flagging her off-side when she was clearly on - decisions for which were apologised for afterwards. The lack of reward for the efforts was worrying the manager though. Was this to be 'one of those days'?
The good play continued, Lauren and Simi sitting either side of the defensive flanks, Scarlett and Ellie-Mae holding the middle and Inka the midfield with Abby and Faye on the wings supporting Tia up front, but still no goal. Time for something new and Abigail replaced Tia up front. Abby meanwhile was having a stormer of a game on the right. A shot into the side netting preceded a moment of magic, her quick feet beating her marker and freeing her to fly down the line and pop a ball in to the waiting Abigail to finish sharply and finally put Bishops Stortford into the lead.
Half-time and two more changes, Elly on for Faye and Tyler replacing Simi. The good football continued, Inka doubling the lead when she received the ball and dribbled past the goalie to score. Louise now replaced her at the centre of midfield and for the rest of the game orchestrated the game from there, seamlessly continuing the work of her predecessor with some great passing and defending. More quality moments from the team; Ellie-Mae putting a chance from a corner over, a great ball from Lauren up the wing, one touch passing from Louise and Abigail, great crosses from Abby, a shot from Scarlett. The returning Tia received the reward for her first half effort, picking up another great ball from Louise and carving the ball home to take the score to 3-0.
Lauren now took over the gloves and was called into action dealing with what was thrown at her but it was Stortford that continued to present the more attacking threat. Final minutes and Inka took over from Scarlett who had worked hard all morning in defence, Skye also coming on for a short on-pitch run-out replacing Abby who received rousing applause for a great performance on the wing. The final combination produced one last goal, Inka and Skye combining to put Tia through, her classy finish bringing the final score to 4-0.
Team: Skye (c), Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Lauren, Simi, Inka, Faye
Subs: Abigail, Elly, Tyler, Louise
Scorers: Abigail, Inka, Tia (2)
Squally showers scudded across the pitch, sharp contrast to our last visit but Stortford opened the game in spritely fashion, Inka finding Tia who forced a mistake from the keeper and just failed to reclaim the spill. More pressure, Scarlett thundering a shot from midfield over the keeper and onto the crossbar, Tia again just failing to find the net. Inka went close from distance, Ellie-Mae picked out Abby who earned a corner, the light blue machine was in full flow.
Comberton made occasional in-roads, but Skye and the defence looked comfortable, a long goal kick out to Tia bringing the next the chance to the visitors. Next Tia was flagged for off-side, a border line decision at best and after a few more minutes of Stortford dominance scored from a lovely ball from Scarlett, the home team linesman again flagging her off-side when she was clearly on - decisions for which were apologised for afterwards. The lack of reward for the efforts was worrying the manager though. Was this to be 'one of those days'?
The good play continued, Lauren and Simi sitting either side of the defensive flanks, Scarlett and Ellie-Mae holding the middle and Inka the midfield with Abby and Faye on the wings supporting Tia up front, but still no goal. Time for something new and Abigail replaced Tia up front. Abby meanwhile was having a stormer of a game on the right. A shot into the side netting preceded a moment of magic, her quick feet beating her marker and freeing her to fly down the line and pop a ball in to the waiting Abigail to finish sharply and finally put Bishops Stortford into the lead.
Half-time and two more changes, Elly on for Faye and Tyler replacing Simi. The good football continued, Inka doubling the lead when she received the ball and dribbled past the goalie to score. Louise now replaced her at the centre of midfield and for the rest of the game orchestrated the game from there, seamlessly continuing the work of her predecessor with some great passing and defending. More quality moments from the team; Ellie-Mae putting a chance from a corner over, a great ball from Lauren up the wing, one touch passing from Louise and Abigail, great crosses from Abby, a shot from Scarlett. The returning Tia received the reward for her first half effort, picking up another great ball from Louise and carving the ball home to take the score to 3-0.
Lauren now took over the gloves and was called into action dealing with what was thrown at her but it was Stortford that continued to present the more attacking threat. Final minutes and Inka took over from Scarlett who had worked hard all morning in defence, Skye also coming on for a short on-pitch run-out replacing Abby who received rousing applause for a great performance on the wing. The final combination produced one last goal, Inka and Skye combining to put Tia through, her classy finish bringing the final score to 4-0.
Team: Skye (c), Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Lauren, Simi, Inka, Faye
Subs: Abigail, Elly, Tyler, Louise
Scorers: Abigail, Inka, Tia (2)
Sunday 10 October 2010
U13s v Cambridge City - League (home) 9.10.10
In any sporting competition it is inevitable that when the best come together, excitement and anticipation bubble and rise in the pre-game build up and when Bishop's Stortford and Cambridge City meet it is no different. The touchline filled for the 10 o'clock kick-off, bringing players and supporters out early on a mild autumn morning at Friedberg, both teams eager in their warm-up, readying themselves for the challenge to come.
The home team played downhill in the first-half and after early exchanges progressed to a throw-in deep into the left-hand corner. Quick movement from players then Abigail threw the ball in to Inka just inside the area who took a shove in the back as she received the ball. A foul anywhere on the pitch, the referee pointed to the penalty spot, a good decision that a few may not have made, but one that set a tone of discipline in this potentially fiesty fixture. Inka took the spot kick and stroked the ball to the right of the goal, the keeper's left hand getting a touch but failing to keep it out. 1-0 to Bishop's Stortford.
A shock start then for Cambridge, but their determination didn't dip, matched equally by the desire and skill of Stortford, girded by their early advantage. In other games, both teams can command possession and set their own tempo to a game, working to make their openings. Against each other, each moment is wrapped in competition, each player closeted quickly, fast thinking, quick passing and total concentration pre-requisite. The visitors sought parity, Emily and Skye preventing an immediate response, Scarlett and Ellie-Mae combining to stifle a second, but the third attempt brought success, Lucy Holder smashing a powerful shot from distance that looped over Skye's head to put the white shirts of Cambridge back on level terms. Another attack was saved by Skye before the light blues started to impose themselves on Cambridge's defences, Scarlett having a shot defended for a corner and Louise seeing another saved.
A foul in midfield gave Emily the opportunity to test the Cambridge keeper from distance. She was equal to the task and watched another attempt shortly after from Abigail find the side-netting of her goal. Attempts by each team threatened, three shots from Cambridge well saved or wide, two from Scarlett and Ellie-Mae equally unable to make their mark.
A tactical switch from the home team now, attempting to ask different questions, Ellie-Mae now taking over from Tia in leading the line, Simi slotting into defence. Abigail and Ellie-Mae linked up immediately and built an attack, at first defended, then intercepted by Emily who found Inka in the box. A jink and a sliver from Inka was followed by a studied left foot shot that slid the ball home. 25 minutes in and the score now 2-1 to Stortford.
Again Cambridge responded, Skye called upon to produce her finest work, first she dealt with a looping shot from distance, then made a flying save to her right and finally before the break a tip round her left hand post to keep the lead intact.
Up the hill in the second-half but a bright opening from the Bishop's Stortford girls, Ellie-Mae surging forward, Scarlett linking with Inka and having a shot saved. Emily and Tyler were called into action, Simi too defending well, meeting her challenges and passing well to Abigail out of defence. A half moment of indecision cost dear though as a Cambridge throw-in presented problems and a shot found the net. Scores level and all to play for. Ellie-Mae again surged through from half-way but to no avail, Scarlett had another shot saved, Simi broke up another dangerous attack, this was end to end stuff. A change now, Abby adding fresh legs and whilst Abigail took a rest.
Gravity in their favour, Cambridge kept pressing, eager to put to rest memories of their last visit to Freidberg. Emily cleared off the line in some desperate defending, but another chance fell to the visitors and they took the lead for the first time, fifteen minutes still on the match clock. Lauren took over from Simi and then Faye for Tyler, the team re-assembled into 3-3-2 to try and find an equaliser. Cambridge took advantage of the lesser defensive numbers, fine tackles from Lauren and Ellie-Mae and a save from Skye equal to the challenge. Ellie-Mae retired through injury, Abigail replacing her. Long balls out of defence now, Faye and Inka seeking that moment of inspiration to salvage the result, the die-ing minutes frantic and exciting. No moment came though, the final whistle bringing another thrilling match to a close, Cambridge rightly jubilant at the result, but thankfully no dark faces from Stortford as each should be justly proud of their performances and effort levels.
There is so little to choose between these teams - to my eye Bishop's Stortford just have the edge on skill and play the nicer football, clean passing and well worked opportunites their forte, Cambridge perhaps a slightly more physical and direct proposition, though these are generalisations, both teams sprinkled with talent and passion. Honours to Cambridge this time, but enough seen to know that our two other likely clashes with them in league and cup will produce more fantastic entertainment and every likelihood of different outcomes than this one.
Team: Skye, Louise, Emily (c), Ellie-Mae, Tyler, Scarlett, Inka, Abigail, Tia
Subs: Simi, Abby, Lauren, Faye
Scorers: Inka (2)
Monday 4 October 2010
Cambridgeshire League Cup 1st round - Comberton Crusaders v Bishops Stortford (away) - 2.10.10
After heavy rain on Friday it was a pleasant and uplifting surprise to arrive at Haslingfield to find it bathed in sunshine. Pre-match, with a helicopter circling overhead, Mike and Odi just about avoided being caught up in a police operation against hare coursing in a neighbouring field, clearly keen to get into the action following the team's own brand of Hare hunting the previous week. However it was a different team in orange that provided today's opposition and a significantly different game developed.
Comberton had come unstuck against us in a pre-season friendly and had started the season getting on the wrong side of some close matches. Back under the stewardship of their coach Cieran they worked hard from the start, harrying the light blues and trying to threaten our defence. The game ebbed and flowed, back and forth, end to end, exciting stuff. Inka had a shot saved, Comberton earned a corner. Tyler and Louise were defending well and Skye was called into action early. Emily intercepted another attack close to the visitors box, her clearance catching Tyler in the face who retired to let her nose-bleed dry up, Simi taking her place in the back three. At the other end Abigail found Inka with a looping ball whose reverse shot was saved by the Crusaders keeper. Stortford couldn't find the move to take the lead and were having to concentrate to keep Comberton at bay.
A change now, Tia and Abby replacing Faye and Ellie-Mae. There was almost an immediate impact as Scarlett put Tia through but again the attempt was rebuffed. The game was heading to half-time with the scores level.
No changes for the start of the second period, though Stortford were starting to get on top now. Ten minutes in and the deadlock was broken when Abigail picked out Scarlett from a throw who jinked beautifully into the box and shot home for the lead. Abigail and Louise took a rest, Lauren joining the returning Tyler. All the players from both teams were working hard with the result still in the balance, though the shot count was remaining in the light blues favour. Simi took a rest, Ellie-Mae now returning and Stortford were in the hunt for a second, a particularly nice move starting from a throw-in from Lauren, returned to her by Tia, Lauren then crossing to Inka who laid back to Scarlett, her shot well saved and behind for a corner. Inka sent the ball in, Comberton cleared to Ellie-Mae in space who surged forward and picked her spot with what is fast becoming a trademark powerful shot. A two goal lead now secured, a wave of relief spread along the touchline. Emily retired and Faye returned for a final few minutes that saw Abby hit the post before being pulled back for offside minutes. Stout defending was required as Comberton mounted a series of attacks, nearly rewarded with a goal when Skye almost had a Rob Green moment, a divot diverting a comfortable collection that thankfully slipped by the post.
A vastly different result than from the pre-season friendly, but hard work and dedication to the cause from the girls and two great goals from Scarlett and Ellie-Mae achieved a result that takes us through to the next round and a home draw against Sawtry in November.
Team: Skye, Tyler, Emily (c), Louise, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Scarlett, Abigail, Faye
Subs: Simi, Tia, Abby, Lauren
Scorers: Scarlett, Ellie-Mae
Comberton had come unstuck against us in a pre-season friendly and had started the season getting on the wrong side of some close matches. Back under the stewardship of their coach Cieran they worked hard from the start, harrying the light blues and trying to threaten our defence. The game ebbed and flowed, back and forth, end to end, exciting stuff. Inka had a shot saved, Comberton earned a corner. Tyler and Louise were defending well and Skye was called into action early. Emily intercepted another attack close to the visitors box, her clearance catching Tyler in the face who retired to let her nose-bleed dry up, Simi taking her place in the back three. At the other end Abigail found Inka with a looping ball whose reverse shot was saved by the Crusaders keeper. Stortford couldn't find the move to take the lead and were having to concentrate to keep Comberton at bay.
A change now, Tia and Abby replacing Faye and Ellie-Mae. There was almost an immediate impact as Scarlett put Tia through but again the attempt was rebuffed. The game was heading to half-time with the scores level.
No changes for the start of the second period, though Stortford were starting to get on top now. Ten minutes in and the deadlock was broken when Abigail picked out Scarlett from a throw who jinked beautifully into the box and shot home for the lead. Abigail and Louise took a rest, Lauren joining the returning Tyler. All the players from both teams were working hard with the result still in the balance, though the shot count was remaining in the light blues favour. Simi took a rest, Ellie-Mae now returning and Stortford were in the hunt for a second, a particularly nice move starting from a throw-in from Lauren, returned to her by Tia, Lauren then crossing to Inka who laid back to Scarlett, her shot well saved and behind for a corner. Inka sent the ball in, Comberton cleared to Ellie-Mae in space who surged forward and picked her spot with what is fast becoming a trademark powerful shot. A two goal lead now secured, a wave of relief spread along the touchline. Emily retired and Faye returned for a final few minutes that saw Abby hit the post before being pulled back for offside minutes. Stout defending was required as Comberton mounted a series of attacks, nearly rewarded with a goal when Skye almost had a Rob Green moment, a divot diverting a comfortable collection that thankfully slipped by the post.
A vastly different result than from the pre-season friendly, but hard work and dedication to the cause from the girls and two great goals from Scarlett and Ellie-Mae achieved a result that takes us through to the next round and a home draw against Sawtry in November.
Team: Skye, Tyler, Emily (c), Louise, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Scarlett, Abigail, Faye
Subs: Simi, Tia, Abby, Lauren
Scorers: Scarlett, Ellie-Mae
Sunday 26 September 2010
Three players reach goalscoring landmark
Abigail, Inka and now Tia have all reached the landmark of scoring 50 goals for the team in competitive matches. This is a fantastic achievement - many congratulations to all three.
It had been on my mind for a while to compile a scoring list from our four seasons as a team and this weekend provided the opportunity. Abigail is a founding member of the team and was league top scorer in 2008/09 with 37. Inka joined late in our first season, scored 30 in 2008/09 and another 26 last year. Both Inka and Abigail's figures also don't include goals scored for Fenton (you'll have to help me with these girls!). Tia is the latest to reach her half-century, clocking her total in just over two seasons with 20, 26 and already 6 this year. The all-time top five list appears below;
1 - Abigail (67)
2 - Inka (65)
3 - Tia (52)
4 - Eryn (31)
5 - Louise (21)
Herts County Cup 1st round - Hormead Hares v Bishops Stortford (away) - 25.9.10
The north-wind nipped down the shallow valley of the River Quinn at Hare Street as the blue clad ranks assembled for their Herts County Cup 1st round match away to Hormead Hares. Pre-match, two referees arrived to officiate (one from Herts and one from Cambridge), doubt was clarified as to whether this was a nine or eleven a-side competition (it was eleven), and agreement reached that we would play nine a-side due to Hormead's depleted numbers (much to the chagrin of our players - 'You're too fair' went up the cry when I told them).
Stortford took the lead after 9 minutes, Emily sending a free kick to Inka who held it up and then picked out Tia to slot home. Tia picked up her second 6 minutes later, a corner from Inka was headed down by Scarlett for Tia to tuck it in the net and make it 2-0 to the visitors.
Bishops Stortford were in full control now, playing nice triangles, talking, supporting, passing into space, the backline of Louise, Simi and Emily holding firm, the midfield four of Inka, Scarlett, Ellie-Mae and Abigail purring and Tia linking with the midfield and sniffing for opportunities up-front.
Faye replaced Tia now and Lauren slotted into defence for Simi who had made some tenacious tackles at wing back. Scarlett brought the score to 3-0, deserved reward for some lovely wing work on the right - a corner came after a double save from Hormead's keeper denied Scarlett then Inka, but the pair couldn't be denied further - Inka sent the ball across and Scarlett effortlessly found the net.
Faye replaced Tia now and Lauren slotted into defence for Simi who had made some tenacious tackles at wing back. Scarlett brought the score to 3-0, deserved reward for some lovely wing work on the right - a corner came after a double save from Hormead's keeper denied Scarlett then Inka, but the pair couldn't be denied further - Inka sent the ball across and Scarlett effortlessly found the net.
Half-time and a change of ends, the wind now in the blues favour. Inka took full advantage a minute in, making space for herself and then striking home into the top right corner of the uprights - a peach of a strike from just inside the area (4-0). The Hares managed to pull one back, a speculative but powerful shot taking a deflection and lobbing over Skye in goal. However after another 5 mins Stortford extinguished any thoughts of a comeback when a blues attack was cleared only to find Louise in space. She took a touch and then blasted home from distance (5-1 to Stortford). Hares heads dipped a little and Inka took the initiative again almost immediately when another long range strike couldn't be kept out by Anastasia, Hormead's goalie and guest at our Cambridge Festival appearances (6-1). Simi and Tia now returned, Abigail and Ellie-Mae taking a rest, then Inka completed her hat-trick with a shot through the defence from a deep position (7-1).
A few minutes later and Abigail and Ellie-Mae returned, replacing Scarlett and Emily who had both put in sterling work throughout the game. Lauren was unlucky from distance, her sweeping strike from wide on the right coming after some great interchange play with Abigail, as was Faye who battled hard up front, held the ball well, her shots today unable to beat the keeper. Skye showed her goal-keeping class late in the game, having had little to do for the majority of the match, diving to her right and saving with finger tips from a powerful shot from Hormead's tall striker. The closing minutes were all Stortford, Abigail the most unfortunate, seeing a dinked shot saved and then a nice finish disallowed for off-side from a cross from Tia.
A tremendous all-round performance that puts Bishops Stortford into the quarter final, our reward being another away tie against either Stevenage Borough or Hemel Hempstead. It was also the third game in a row that we have bagged a magnificent seven goals, three games in and already over half the squad have been on the scoresheet.
Final score: 1-7
Scorers: Tia 2, Scarlett, Inka 3, Louise
Team: Skye, Louise, Emily (c), Simi, Abigail, Ellie-Mae, Scarlett, Inka, Tia
Subs: Faye, Lauren
Subs: Faye, Lauren
Sunday 19 September 2010
U13s v Sawtry Colts - League (away) 18.09.10
Streets of cumulus clouds banded the huge autumn skies above as the girls went two league wins from two in a 7-1 away win against Sawtry. Scarlett found the net twice in the early exchanges, the first coming after some brave battling from Faye and the second from a fine pass from Inka.
Sawtry pulled a goal back midway through the first half, prompting a strong comeback that saw the blues find the net twice more before the break - Ellie-Mae's strong run and thunderbolt strike from the right securing the third before she turned provider to Tia who completed Stortford's first half scoring with an impish finish.
Sawtry pulled a goal back midway through the first half, prompting a strong comeback that saw the blues find the net twice more before the break - Ellie-Mae's strong run and thunderbolt strike from the right securing the third before she turned provider to Tia who completed Stortford's first half scoring with an impish finish.
Into the second and Tia now took the role of provider, finding Inka on the right of the area who calmly picked her spot inside the left-hand post to make it 5-1 to the visitors. Goal six came when Scarlett deftly slipped the ball through to Tia for her second of the game and Abigail latched onto a pass from the outstanding Louise to pick up the team's seventh, a goal tally achieved for the second week in a row.
Good performances again throughout the squad. The back-line of Simi, Emily and Louise worked tirelessly throughout the game. The midfield was both industrious and creative and though occasionally cramped today has the talent and fire-power take any opposition apart. Tia upfront ran some terrific lines and picked up another brace of goals as reward. Another strong performance but still more to come.
Next week the team's attentions turn to Hormead Hares in the first round of the Herts County Cup.
Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Ellie-Mae, Louise, Inka, Scarlett, Abigail, Faye
Bench: Tia, Abby, Elly
Scorers: Scarlett (2), Ellie-Mae, Tia (2), Inka, Abigail
U13s v Alconbury Colts - League (home) 11.09.10
The U13 league season opened, after some last minute pitch preparation that delayed the kick-off, with the girls taking on Alconbury Colts, visitors with experience of the 9 a side format, many of their team having played in this division last season.
Stortford played up the slight hill in the first half and whilst a little tentative in the opening, comfortably took command of their game in a 4-3-1 formation. The defensive line was an imposing sight - Emily and Ellie-Mae, a daunting centre-half pairing for any striker to deal with, flanked on one side by Tyler who had led the side with her tackling in the pre-season friendlies, and on the other by Louise, in at the deep end after a weekend a way, though after a few minutes you would never have known. This impregnable wall provided the platform for the midfield to work off, given licence in the opening to play down the middle. Inka on the right, Abigail on the left and Scarlett in the middle, the three bossing the game and looking to pass through the defence. Fizzing up front was Tia, chomping at the bit after her goalfest against the U14s but frustrated at missing out on the fun of the other friendlies.
Five minutes in and the first goal came. After an initial goalmouth scramble following Emily's corner, Abigail put Scarlett into space enough for a shot and the Stortford newcomer found the net with precision. Scarlett's opener put some confidence into the veins of all the team and the girls took it up a gear, Emily having a shot wide from distance, all of them pressing the ball and Louise making a classy interception to set up a home team attack. Scarlett had a shot saved before great work from Tyler to win the ball, pushed a pass through to Inka who laid it back to Emily near the half way line. Bold as brass, the skipper struck the ball hard, high and true and billowed the net from the net from 35 yards - the Alconbury keeper left helpless. Broad smiles all round and the girls shifted into top gear, now playing 3-4-1 with Ellie-Mae wide right, Abigail wide left and Scarlett and Inka pairing up in the middle. Our two midfield maestros engineered a great move shortly after the change, Scarlett slipping the ball to Inka who pinged in a cross that Tia met with commitment, only to see her effort climb over the bar. Scarlett had another shot saved and Emily frightened the cross bar before Ellie-Mae bagged the teams third, winning the ball in midfield on the right and then surging forward, her powerful shot from distance catching a defender on the way to finding the net.
The team's fourth goal came from the other flank a few minutes later, the classy Abigail slipping the ball through to Tia who slid the ball home to further dishearten the visitors. Ellie-Mae threatened down the wing and earned a corner as the dominance continued. Emily sent in the ball and a head lifted it into the air, Abigails snap just rising over the bar.
In a rare foray into Bishop's Stortfords half, Louise defended well and Skye touched the ball for the first time, before Alconbury earned themselves a free kick, though their strike made it no further than the wall, Inka blocking the shot - Tia having her under hit shot saved by the Colts keeper. Lauren replaced Abigail for the last few minutes of the half which saw Alconbury earn themselves a corner and Tia having a run on goal and shot saved before the whistle.
Half-time changes saw Scarlett retire for a rest and Abby take up station alongside Inka in the centre, the girls encouraged to keep the width across the middle into the second half. Early pressure earned a corner, Emily sending it to the back-post onto Lauren's brave head and so nearly a goal. No matter though as Lauren played a part in arguably the move of the game a couple of minutes later. Great passing play saw Inka find Louise who passed on to Lauren. Her pass picked out Abby who slid the ball through to a sprightly Tia who surged into the box, gave the keeper 'the eyes' and picked her spot with a trademark clinical finish. More great play followed, Louise spotting the opportunity to switch play from the back and picking out Lauren on the right who was unlucky not to score. Another opportunity followed but Lauren's scoring luck was in short supply in today. Abby's was, as she found the net from the edge of the area much to the touchline's and her pleasure to take the score to 6-0.
Ellie replaced Ellie-Mae on the right for the restart and Louise was quickly into defensive action on the other flank, Alconbury making another attack shortly after the brought the nearest thing to a save for the day for Skye, her clearance kick bounding deep into the Colts half. Inka put in some great work in midfield and shot just wide before Simi switched with Louise in defence and Faye replaced Lauren on the right as personnel changes came thick and fast - Stortford retaining their energy and putting in some hard work in all departments against a wilting Alconbury side. Abby had another shot saved before a double substitution - Scarlett for Inka in the middle and Abigail for Tia upfront. Time now for a crunching tackle from Tyler stifled an Alconbury attack. Scarlett went close with another attempt before Emily retired to be replaced by Ellie-Mae at the centre of defence and Abigail added the team's seventh goal of the game, a great solo finish seeing her break into the box and calmly beat the keeper. Lauren now donned keepers gloves, with Skye replacing Tyler at the back, the final minutes seeing the released keeper make a great tackle and pass, Ellie go so close to opening her seasons tally and Abigail unleash a shot that was pushed wide by the Colts keeper.
So a great 7-0 opening league win, some good points to work on and some time chalked up learning two new formations. I rarely mark our performances but I thought today was worth 7/10 - a mark that reflects a good performance but also the capability of the team to improve a good two or three levels up from today when they hit their full potential.
Team: Skye, Tyler, Emily (c), Ellie-Mae, Louise, Inka, Scarlett, Abigail, Tia
Bench: Lauren, Abby, Ellie, Simi, Faye
Scorers: Scarlett, Emily, Ellie-Mae, Tia (2), Abby, Abigail
Pre-season friendlies
Comberton Crusaders - 8-0 win
Bury Rangers - 1-1 draw
Looking back at our two pre-season friendlies, I couldn't be happier. We decimated Comberton with stylish and at times ruthless passing football and great finishing despite the long grass at Grange Paddocks. Not only will our goal scorers take confidence from finding the net so regularly but our defence was solid and looked comfortable both with the offside rules and in coping with the Crusaders strikers. Our midfield also worked tremendously hard and began the process of learning each others running lines, how to find space, support each other in the larger format etc.
Sunday's opposition were a completely different kettle of fish and an ideal follow up to the day before. BuryRangers were excellent. They matched us for large chunks of the game and had a lightning quick striker to trouble our defence. Going a goal down was arguably no bad thing in that it asked a big question of the team physically, psychologically and technically, to which by the second half we began to find the answer - great credit to the girls for digging deep and doing that.
Analysing the game afterwards as we move on from 7 aside, formations add a new dimension to the game and match tactics. Our 332 formation was matched initially with Bury playing 431 (and later 341). This stifled our attacking two and closed the space available to Faye and Inka as well as Abby and Simi on the flanks. Switching to 341 in the second half, with Inka dropping back alongside Scarlett was in retrospect a switch I might have made earlier and though Inka's equaliser was a finely finished interception, I thought having 4 across midfield increased our control and penetration as well as lessened the defensive burden on Scarlett who put in a phenomenal amount of work in both the games. I am also very proud of the way everyone responded to the physical demands of the game, after a slightly tentative first-half, led by Tyler and some great commitment from Emily. In correspondence today, Grant was very complimentary towards you all and ranked the game as one the two hardest they have ever had (along with their game against Garston Ladies). We have agreed to look towards having a further friendly later in the season to judge how both teams are progressing and are also looking into touring together at the end of the season - more on this later on.
So an ideal pre-season is now completed and the real stuff begins. We must use games when we find ourselves comfortably on top in the future to refine our tactics and shape, as over the coming few weeks we have important games in the Herts and League cups and the league to contend with.
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