Sunday 5th October
🏆 U12 League Cup – First Round
SQUAD: Libby, Sienna M, Sienna W, Lillie, Emilia, Izzy, Gracie, Emy-Mae, Isla, Arielle, Esme, Nora
SPONSORS: Hamilton Medical and Lightning Tools
North Leicester was the venue for Rugby Town’s second clash of the season against East Goscote, this time in the opening round of the U12 Cup. Windy and overcast conditions greeted both teams for the morning kick-off.
âš˝ First Half
Rugby Town started slowly, struggling to find rhythm on a bumpy and unforgiving pitch. East Goscote capitalised early, scoring a well-taken goal to go 1–0 up. That strike sparked Town into life, with Arielle showing great determination to win the ball and make a confident solo run — finishing coolly to score her first club goal and level the match at 1–1.
Momentum shifted as both Siennas, Esme, and Lillie launched wave after wave of attacks. The East Goscote keeper was in inspired form, pulling off a string of saves. Even when beaten, the woodwork denied Sienna M twice with shots off the post. Libby made an impact after coming on midway through, creating two good chances but was unlucky not to score.
Just before the break, Sienna W broke down the wing and unleashed a powerful shot that was brilliantly saved. The rebound fell to Sienna M, who reacted quickly to fire into the roof of the net and give Town a 2–1 lead at half-time.
🔥 Second Half
Captain Emy led by example with tireless midfield work, battling end-to-end and showing immense effort for her teammates. In goal, Nora continues to grow in confidence and ability — her awareness and shot-stopping improving with every match.
Lillie, playing in an attacking midfield role, delivered another energetic and skilful performance. Her link-up play with Emy, Isla, Arielle, and Libby helped maintain the tempo and pressure, though Town couldn’t convert their chances early in the half.
East Goscote remained dangerous on the counter, but Town’s defence stood firm. Izzy, Gracie, and Emilia formed a solid back line, with both wingbacks showing composure and vision under pressure. Emilia and Izzy pushed forward with confidence, delivering excellent through balls. Gracie, at the heart of defence, was a standout — her positioning, strength, and leadership earning praise from watching parents.
With the game still finely poised, Emy struck the bar twice before a breakthrough came. A superb through ball found Sienna M, who sprinted from halfway and slotted a precise shot into the bottom corner to make it 3–1.
Both Siennas continued to combine well up front, supported by Esme’s dazzling footwork on the left wing and Isla’s hardworking contributions. As the final whistle neared, Sienna W popped up at the back post to calmly tap in from close range, sealing a 4–1 victory and sending Town through to the next round.
🌟 Final Thoughts
A spirited cup played in tough conditions, with both teams showing heart and determination. Rugby Town’s teamwork, confidence, and desire to play passing football were clear throughout — especially from new players Arielle, Libby, Isla, Gracie, and Lillie, who continue to impress.
Well done to East Goscote for a competitive and enjoyable match.
🏅 Player Highlights
- Parents’ Player of the Match: Gracie – for her commanding defensive display and composure.
- Coach’s Player: Sienna M – for her attacking impact and two crucial goals.