Squad: Norah, Ellie, Olivia, Molly, Bella, Millie, Sophie
Sponsor: Lightning Tools
This week saw the U8s Lionesses host the local derby between Rugby Town and Rugby Borough. Last time we played RB it was the girls first ever league match for both sides, so this time it was nice to see the clear improvement from both sides to make a nice even game.
With knowledge before the game of a very talented RB player we came up with soke tactics with how to slow her down, this saw some of the girls have some tricky instructions which they executed well. RB set up with 1 defender and 3 midfielders which we had never seen before which made for bunching in the middle of the pitch. With RT still working on their shots and big kicks out of defence it meant we were on the attack quite a bit.
On the odd chance RB broke through Molly’s strong tackles in defence and Norah was on hand in goal for the first half who made some fantastic saves whilst working on her diving. Millie and Olivia working hard constantly in midfield made some good chances for Ellie up front. Plenty of changes were made within the first half seeing Bella come on in midfield and Sophie coming on up front, with the added energy we were really pushing on RB only defender and sub goalkeeper. Following a series of corners and throw ins Millie came with a nice long throw into the box which helped RT become successful for the first time in the match.
The second half saw Sophie pull on her goalie gloves for her chance in goal, Norah moved forwards into defence so stop any RB players in their tracks. With more hard work from midfield and Ellie making some great runs up the line we were once again applying the pressure on another substitute goalkeeper for RB. The RT girls did not stop running and clearing the ball and began to tire. A scramble in the RT box saw Sophie pull off 3 amazing saves including saving one with her face, subsequently this scramble helped RB to be successful. Sophie being in some discomfort with her face Norah put the goalkeeper shirt back on and went in goal for the rest of the match pulling off some more great saves.
Once again, the game was even with the ball staying In the middle of the pitch for quite a while. Bella’s none stop work in midfield was giving her mire confidence to make some great tackles and to put pressure on the RB attacking players. After a great run down the right wing from Olivia and a great ball into the box there was a well positioned Bella with help from the inside post we were celebrating once again. It was now into the last 10 minutes and RT girls had given everything they’d got to the match and switched off for a second which RB took full advantage of once again making the match level.
All in all it was a great game and lovely to see the score line wasn’t drastic either way.
Parents player – Norah for a great performance in goal and defence. Its been a great week for Norah this week as she was awarded player of the week on Friday for showing great determination.
Managers player – Bella for following instructions given by the coaches and worked really hard for the whole game.
Thank you to the parents for always bringing the girls and being great cheerleaders and thanks to Jason for reffing.
