12th December 2021
Squad: Esme, Emilia, Emy-Mae, Ellie, Alexis
Sponsor: Lightning Tools
Rugby Town travelled to East Goscote for a 10:00 kick-off, in much more mild weather than we experienced the previous week. The pitch was grass, and a bit muddy, so keeping a clean kit was definitely not in the cards today. This was especially true for Esme, who happily took the role of goalie in Phoebe’s absence, and with confidence to spare. No subs for Rugby this time, which saw Emilia in defense, Emy-Mae and Ellie on each wing, and Alexis playing up top.
East Goscote kicked off, and Rugby didn’t hesitate to immediately chase the ball down, quickly turning over possession. The girls were fantastic in holding positions, as well as linking up play to present Rugby with many opportunities for success. Goscote’s defense and goalie were strong, and getting past either proved challenging. However, Rugby held possession for the majority of the first half. The improvement in each girl when it came to controlling the ball, picking their heads up and looking for another player to make the pass, and moving into space to receive the ball, was even better than we’ve seen before. These aspects of the game are really starting to sink in, as the girls demonstrated with finesse.
The second half began with both teams still wanting their first celebration. With some excellent passing and dribbling around the opposition, Alexis managed to breach Goscote’s defenses to Rugby’s benefit. Many of our previous matches followed a similar pace, with the second half being when both teams really got into the back and forth of strong possession followed by celebration. Both Ellie and Emy-Mae exhibited quick attacking to also give Rugby a reason to cheer.
While not having as much action in the first half, Esme really shined in the second half, with some brilliant saves and coming out of the goal to take possession of the ball. Emilia, playing in her comfortable position as sweeper, even managed to get a few solo runs with a couple near successes. By the final whistle, the girls had given 100% without any rest from substitutions, and can be super proud of their performance today.
Player of the Match: Ellie for demonstrating strength in controlling the ball, and her determination to get to the ball first at every opportunity.
Parents’ Players: Esme and Emilia – Esme showed confidence in goal with many great saves, though not her usual position. Emilia for her quick tackling and defensive strength, while also taking the opportunity to press forward when an occasion presented itself.