Sponsored by Intelligent Financial Advisory Ltd
On a bright windy morning at Kilsby Lane the under 11’s squad played their first round cup match this year against an unknown opponent Kibworth Town.
Both teams started well, playing some good passing football and it looked like Rugby were going to be thoroughly tested. After several minutes of each side trying to break through resolute defences Rugby showed signs of increased intensity when a mazy run from Jasmine resulted in a corner, the first of many.
This was closely followed by an excellent pass and move combination between Marley and Holly and subsequently a Jasmine shot just missing to the right. Another passing combination saw Marley through on goal only for her to hit it straight at the Kibworth keeper who held firm.
A corner resulting from a strong run down the wing by Madi fell to Jasmine in the box and swiftly converted for Rugby to take the lead 1-0.
There then followed a series of Rugby attacks resulting in efforts from Melissa just over the bar, Madi at the keeper, Lila and Holly both going close.
A smart combination pass and move resulted in yet another corner. The result of which fell to Lila who controlled and shot too quickly for the defence and keeper to react and Rugby doubled their lead 2-0.
On a rare occasion that Kibworth penetrated into the Rugby half, Rosie’s positioning was superb and she made a vital interception. Katie also covered at the back well.
Yet more passing moves by Rugby resulted in corners or shots on goal which were saved.
Towards the end of the first half Kibworth penetrated the Rugby defence only to see a very brave save by Jenna at the feet of the opponent. As half time approached Jasmine latched onto a keeper’s ball out and struck a fierce shot only for it to strike the crossbar, 10mm lower and it would have been a certain goal. Half time and Rugby were well in the ascendency.
Rugby started the second half brightly with Holly finding and making good use of space to support an attacking move resulting in a corner. Further attacks saw good shots from Marley and then Holly but the Kibworth keeper stood firm.
A good move from Kibworth was again broken down by Rosie’s interception.
Rugby increased the pressure and a Jasmine pass found Marley who took a touch and then shot just wide.
Melissa was enjoying some freedom making her trade mark mazy runs causing the opposition real problems. A loose ball then fell to Jasmine who went on another strong run and notched up her second goal 3-0.
Just after the restart Lila made a solid interception and a superb passing move with Madi resulted with Lila’s left foot effort just off target.
Kibworth attacks were now very sporadic however whilst breaking into the rugby goal area they found Jenna in great form making a double stop from an awkward bouncing ball.
A long ball from Jenna found Jasmine who was having a strong game today, she crossed and gave Madi a simple tap-in to make it 4-0.
From the kick off Lila picked up a loose ball and passed to Melissa who shot and it’s another good goal 5-0.
A little later an amusing moment occurred when Madi spun to cross a ball close to the dead ball line and oops did the splits!
Lila showed her strength, tracking back and winning the ball to then set Melissa on a run, she passed into the box where Lila was waiting to pounce 6-0, the conversion resulted in Kibworth’s third change of keeper.
Several more Rugby forays result in a near miss for Holly and following a superb run, a good effort by Marley going close.
A final Kibworth attack and corner fizzled out and the full time whistle blew. Rugby progress to the next round of the cup. An excellent all round team display.
Rugby Town Girls u11s 6-0 Kibworth Town Girls u11s
Parents Player – Jasmine
Opposing Coaches Player – Marley
Thanks to Paul for refereeing the game and to the great support shown by both sets of supporters.