Sunday 28th September
Squad: Eve, Emy-Mae, Isla, Emilia, Esme, Lillie, Gracie, Nora, Sienna W, Sienna M, Libby, Izzy
Sponsors: Hamilton Medical and Lightning Tools
The journey down the A14 to Harborough Town wasn’t the brightest, with heavy rain and dark skies making for a gloomy start. Thankfully, as the players began their warmups, the sun broke through and revealed a well-prepared grass pitch, perfect for the early morning kick-off. Parents were also treated to the welcoming atmosphere and the smell of sizzling bacon and sausages from the excellent facilities.
First Half
Rugby Town came flying out of the blocks, setting up with an attacking intent from the very first whistle. The forward line of Esme and the two Siennas, supported by Lillie, produced wave after wave of skilful, fast-paced passing moves. At the back, the defence of Gracie, Libby, Izzy, and Emilia looked composed and assured, moving the ball out confidently at every opportunity.
The early pressure paid off as Lillie latched onto a clever through-ball from Sienna W and coolly finished to make it 0–1. Moments later, a defensive slip from Harborough was punished by Sienna M, who surged through the middle and tucked away a neat finish for 0–2. Rugby Town continued to dominate, with Lillie adding a fine solo goal and Eve bursting down the left to score another off an impressive technical display of strength.
Just before half-time, Lillie completed her first hat-trick for Rugby Town, finishing a pinpoint cross from Sienna M after excellent build-up play involving Emy and Sienna W.
Harborough, to their credit, didn’t let their heads drop and eventually pulled one back past Nora, who has been excellent in goal with brave decision-making and smart saves, showing continuous improvement each week.
The half ended 1–5 to Rugby, a scoreline reflecting a high-energy display, sharp passing, and some truly outstanding team play. Special mention goes to Emy, who controlled midfield superbly, linking defence and attack with calmness and vision.
Second Half
With a comfortable lead, Rugby rotated players and gave opportunities for different positions and development. Early in the half, Sienna W set up Eve, who produced a brilliant turn and fired home an unstoppable strike off the volley for 1–6.
Isla and Libby worked tirelessly, showing determination and bravery in their challenges as they further continued their development with a new team. However, the changes and perhaps some tired legs allowed Harborough back into the game. They pressed hard and scored a quick succession of goals to narrow the gap, eventually making it 4–6 by full-time.
The scoreline didn’t quite reflect Rugby’s dominance, especially in the first half, but it was still an excellent all-round performance. Esme’s strong play, Izzy’s ever-reliable defending alongside Gracie, and Emilia’s driving runs down the wings in the second half all stood out. Emilia in particular was unlucky not to get a goal in the final seconds off a left footed strike nearly missing the top left corner.
The match closed with Rugby once again demonstrating moments of free-flowing, confident football that left the supporters proud.
Awards
• Parent’s POM: Lillie – A battling display capped with a well-deserved hat-trick, showcasing the importance of teamwork.
• Manager’s POM: Izzy – Reliable, strong, and a key presence in defense.
Well done, team!