The u10s travelled to Asfordby for the second time this season for a rearranged cup match in the February sunshine in what proved to be an entertaining competitive fixture. The opposition, referee and the Rugby girls all entered into the game in the right spirit and it was a pleasure to see some exciting attacking football from both teams and positive support throughout.
It was an even, cagey start with both teams having chances but neither team giving anything away. Asfordby’s speedy front line were constantly a threat, putting pressure on Captain Hev and Darcey in the Rugby defence – both had to be alert and get their tackles in early to keep them at bay. Asfordby had the better of the early affairs but another confident performance and a string of fine, brave saves from goalkeeper Frankie provided a solid last line of defence.
The rotating midfield of Hav and Beth didn’t stop running, put in some brave tackles in the middle of the park to stop the ball getting through to the Asfordby attack and covered the whole pitch from end to end. Isobel slotted into defence and showed great movement to thwart the opposition from every angle with some crunching tackles and a cool head, always playing it safe.
Rugby looked dangerous going forward when they had their chances – the forward three of Lexie, Poppy and Sofia linking up well and fighting for every ball. It was pleasing to see the girls moving into space when off the ball and they tried everything to find the killer pass past the Asfordby defence, all of whom were at least a foot taller than them!
First half spoils appeared to have been shared until just before the end when a fine passing move from Asfordby saw the first goal. Rugby reacted immediately, attacking at pace and with enthusiasm, playing some good football along the way. A HUGE goal kick from Frankie saw a long ball over the top and the chase was on – Lexie somehow managed to catch the ball before it went out of play and slot it home with an incredible first-time finish from an impossible angle.
With only a minute left on the clock it appeared we were back to all square, but not for long! Asfordby flew straight back at the Rugby defence and took advantage within thirty seconds of the kick off to make it three goals in as many minutes just before the half-time whistle. Changes within the Rugby team saw Hav and Hev demonstrate their flexibility by playing in a number of positions and both girls played their hearts out wherever they were called upon.
Beth was unlucky not to score at one end whilst also making some vital blocks at the other, showing her determination and commitment to the team from one end of the pitch to the other. Poppy’s fine footwork on the wing was always a threat whilst Sofia and Lexy never stopped trying to find that final pass to put the other through on goal – it didn’t help that they always started half a yard behind due to the opposition’s longer legs!
Despite a fine fingertip save from Frankie and an unfortunate bounce Rugby were unlucky to concede a third before the end to put the match out of reach. The Rugby girls didn’t stop trying until the final whistle and were unlucky not to emerge with more form the game – the final score didn’t reflect the largely even contest and all players should be proud of their determination and fighting spirit. Another fine performance from the very talented Under 10’s who were unlucky not to progress to the next round. Well done girls!
Parents Player of the Match: Lexie was always a threat going forward and scored with an exceptional finish from an impossible angle; we’re still not quite sure how she managed it – a superb goal!
Coaches Player of the Match: Isobel was solid and dependable in defence as usual, always playing it safe to eliminate the danger and making some great tackles.
