Sunday, 2nd November 2025
Sponsors: Hamilton Medical and Lightning Tools
Squad: Nora, Emy, Emilia, Lillie, Libby, Esme, Sienna W, Arielle, Gracie, Sienna M, Izzy
After a tight encounter against Burbage on 12th October—where chances were limited and Lillie scored our only goal thanks to some excellent Rugby Town defending and goalkeeping—we moved into the next chapter: a second round league cup clash against Harborough Town at home.
First Half
Rugby Town began brightly, taking early control with confident, flowing football. Early corners gave Sienna W an opportunity to place her lovely arcing crosses into an eager Rugby Town attacking lineup ready to finish. Lillie got us off to the perfect start, scoring two well-taken goals and showcasing some brilliant close-control footwork in midfield.
Harborough remained dangerous on the counter and pulled one back to make it 2–1, but Rugby responded superbly. Lillie turned provider, threading a perfectly weighted pass through to Sienna M., who surged past her marker from just inside the halfway line and finished emphatically for 3–1.
Harborough refused to back down and closed the gap again with a sharp finish to make it 3–2. Rugby answered once more: Emy fired a fantastic long-range effort over the keeper and into the roof of the net for 4–2. Arielle, building on her improving form, battled brilliantly to secure the fifth goal.
Moments later, Emilia delivered a superb cross from left wing, picking out Sienna W., whose turning half-volley was one of the standout goals of the match. Harborough grabbed a late goal before the break.
ending a breathless first half at 6–3.
Second Half
Rugby started the second half strongly. Ten minutes in, impressive team play opened the door for Sienna M. to score her second of the game, extending the lead to 7–3.
Town continued to press and pass well but were unable to convert further chances. In total, Rugby recorded 27 shots with roughly a 30% conversion rate.
Although the match report naturally highlights the goals, the collective effort across the pitch deserves equal praise.
• In midfield, Emy worked tirelessly alongside Arielle and Libby.
• Izzy delivered a composed, mature performance at right-back.
• Esme, Gracie, and Emilia formed a resilient defensive unit, battling against a confident, fast counter-attacking Harborough side.
• Special recognition goes to Nora, who made numerous brave saves and smart decisions in goal—particularly vital as Harborough mounted a late surge.
That late push from the visitors saw the score tighten dramatically from 7–3 to 7–6, shifting momentum and making for an incredibly tense finish. Rugby held firm, though, securing a dramatic and exhilarating cup victory.
Coach’s Player: Izzy
Parents’ Player: Nora