Squad
Norah, Ellen (C), Kara, Poppy, Libbie, Izzy, Holly, Evie, Darcie, Harper, Isla
11 players took the trip over to Kibworth for our final game of this 1st block of 2026/27 games.
First Half
It is fair to say Rugby struggled in the first half. Generally, players stood off the ball and seem reluctant to closely engage with the opposition. Although there were glimmers of hope with some nice forward balls, overall, the players seemed a bit shellshocked and the half time score 5-0 to Kibworth
Second Half
After a discussion and position change at half time, with 1 simple instruction, win the ball, there was a noticeable improvement in the team who all displayed much more game awareness and positive play.
Norah was injured early into the second half, by attempting to save a powerful shot with her face. Ellen bravely stepped up into goal and Rugby had to play the remaining time with 10 players.
Therefore, only conceding 3 in the second half, emphasized a much better performance from the team, and one they should be pleased with.
Final score 8-0
Instead of a blow by blow of the game today, its more useful to focus on the players effort and willingness to listen and adapt in the second half.
Norah – before being injured, Norah worked much harder on collecting the balls in her hand instead of slapping or kicking away. They help by creating GK for the team and allowing more forward play.
Ellen – a super solid performance in CB, with crucial clearances. Followed by a stint between the stick. Having not played in goal for several season, a very confident performance indeed.
Evie – a great game over on the right wing. Evie really got stuck in during the second half, with some well time and determined tackles, good throw ins and overall, a very positive performance.
Harper – Harper played in 3 different positions today – but most notable was when she was asked to drop into LB to provide more support for the defense. Effort, movement and adaptability on point today.
Holly – another player in multiple positions, and another who was asked to drop into defense, this time CB. Holly always works hard and her willingness to do what is needed for the team is hugely appreciated.
Izzy – Izzy is our engine. She never stops running, never stops encouraging other players. Izzy was a workhorse today, and a royal pain in the opposition side. She is a player that anyone would be glad to have on their team.
Isla – Isla asked to play up front today, and we were happy to provide that opportunity. Although she didn’t see a lot of action, due to Rugby playing a very defensive game. Isla listed to what was asked of her, worked hard to get the ball and showed clear desire to move forward.
Kara – had another busy game. She came into her own when she was asked to play in the middle for the second half of the second half. The increased freedom suited her, and Kara delivered some really nice forward balls and displayed great energy. Another player showing great adaptability.
Libbie – was asked to mark a specific player in the second half, who was the main play creator for Kibworth. And wow! Did she mark her! There is no doubt that the work Libbie did in pinning the player back, reduced the attacking pace of Kibworth and limited opportunities on goal.
Poppy – another game when Poppy provided her legendary clearances. Poppy usually plays CB but was asked to move to RB in the second half to cut down the opportunities Kibworth were generating from the wing. A great performance.
Darcie – another game when Darcie gives everything on the pitch. A much more effective second half, positioning herself in midfield and defending from the front. Darcie’s football was much more controlled and she looked much more confident, taking on players and providing some nice dribbles forward.
Captains Player of the Match – Holly. Committed performance in both attack and defense, showing great adaptability.
Player of the Match – Ellen. Another super performance in CB and the stepped into GK when Norah was injured and provided a great performance between the sticks.
Thank you to Coach Ollie and the Kibworth players for hosting, Referee Ellie – who kindly stepped in when the opposition were struggling for a referee and assistant ref Jed plus parents for your support, it is much appreciated.