The U12 girls returned to League action today against a strong Cosby team who they had beaten in the Cup semi-final last year; with a new look lineup and limited preparation it would be a tough challenge with lots of adjustments as they moved to a bigger pitch, bigger goals, 9 a side and the introduction of the offside rule!
It was fantastic to have everyone back from injury and holidays and the girls started brightly, if looking a bit rusty! They were rewarded early on with a goal direct from a corner which may have taken a touch on the way through but nobody knows from who! That helped the game settle and the home team were well on top for the majority of the first half.
Ria put in a solid performance at the heart of the Rugby defence, often first to react and not afraid to use both feet and her head to keep the opposition at bay. Lena made a spirited debut alongside her and wasn’t afraid to get stuck in, making some important tackles and interceptions. It wasn’t the free-flowing football we are used to Rugby still looked dangerous going forward and were rarely troubled at the back in the opening 20 minutes.
Aurora displayed her customary energy on the Rugby wing, barreling forwards and using her pace and determination to good effect. Izzy switched sides in defence to arguably face the toughest task of the day against a talented Cosby winger and showed that she was more than up to the challenge with another dogged display. Sofia was hugely effective up front, linking up play well and pressing high up the pitch to never allow Cosby time on the ball.
A late first half communication breakdown gave Cosby their first clear cut chance and they took it well to come in at half-time with the honours even. Rugby knew they had been on top for the most part but needed to make their possession count and take their chances when they came in the second half, without putting themselves in danger at the back.
Isobel was lively on the other Rugby wing; chasing back effectively to protect the defence whilst finding herself in some fantastic positions going forward, and was unlucky not to end up on the scoresheet. Another debutant Ella came on at the back she put in a determined performance in her first ever match, always playing it safe and not putting the team at risk.
Christabel was instrumental in the centre of midfield, linking up play well and always looking to put the girls on the front foot; she used her strength to her advantage and was always comfortable with the ball at her feet and making herself available to her teammates. Following a well-worked team move early in the second half Aurora kept her nerve and slotted home a calm finish to give Rugby the advantage once again.
This rejuvenated Cosby who enjoyed a positive spell going forwards as they sought a way back into the game. The home defence had to be on their toes and they were supported by a fearsome performance from goalkeeper Layla – she made some fantastic saves from long range, particularly from set pieces, and showed great handling skills and strong hands throughout.
With ten minutes to go the pace of the game fizzled out and Rugby did well to keep their composure, retain possession and run the clock down to ensure a well-deserved victory. It wasn’t the most polished performance but the result never really looked in doubt and, after so long away and against one of the strongest teams in the League, the girls should be enormously proud of themselves.
Player of the Match went to Ria who looked assured and confident in central defence; calm and unflappable, she made some fantastic tackles and cleared the danger well. Huge thanks to Tony D for refereeing and to Will for running the line.