Sunday 27th March 2022
Squad: Ellie, Tasha, Kelsey, Ella, Cara, Evie, Lucy, Hannah, Priya (Captain), Robyn, Elle, Ava, Zoe, Sophia W, Sophia K, Liv
Sponsor – Lisa Collins Hair Design
The U15s played their first-round league cup game at home at Butlin Road on Sunday afternoon.
Allexton beat Rugby comfortably in a league game a few weeks ago so although the Rugby team were a little nervy, there was also a quiet confidence that teamwork would triumph this week!
Again, match instructions were simple, deliver on your individual responsibilities on the pitch to contribute to the team effort.
First Half
Early presses from Rugby set the scene for a competitive game. Allexton were not getting the space and time on the ball that they were expecting.
The Rugby defence were showing much better game management with excellent teamwork and communication and any Allexton activity in the final third was swiftly thwarted by the Rugby team. Allexton won 3 corners in a row which caused no worry for the home side.
A physical game for both teams, with some crunching tackles and lively protestations. Kelsey and Priya worked an overlap well, forcing the Allexton keeper into action. Rugby continued the to hold the game and continue the press. A fantastic ball over to Elle J on the left wing saw her beat the Allexton defence and slot a lovely ball to the left of the keeper for Rugby’s opening goal.
Rugby were awarded a free kick for a wayward tackle, taken by Sophia K, finding its way to Kelsey who shot just over the crossbar.
A free kick to Allexton found an Allexton forward well, who fired the ball into the side net of the Rugby goal and out of danger.
A very well controlled 40 mins of football from the home side. The defence of Cara, Ellie, Robyn and Ella had a very strong half which much better management of the opposition forwards. Lucy subbed on for Ella towards the end of the half and gelled well with the back 4.
Sophia K magnificent in defensive midfield showing off some great on ball skills providing taking her on 1 on 1 is only for the brave. Elle J, Ava, Priya, and Kelsey were commanding the midfield and playing some exciting football. Ava and Priya in particular were bosses, huge energy and movement. All 4 midfielders were committed to defending from the front, supporting both the Rugby press and dropping and helping the defensive 5 if needed. Hannah and Tash were alternating as the lone striker up front, both working well with the Rugby midfield.
2nd Half
During the second half, Kelsey (RW) continued to frustrate the Allexton back line with some nice ball tricks and quick runs, often leaving the opposition trailing.
Allexton were awarded a free kick courtesy of Ava who was clearly getting annoyed with some of their tactics and decided a little reciprocation was in order. Allexton were now finding a bit of momentum, and Sophia W was now called into action to make some decisions in goal. A strong Allexton strike was very well saved by Sophia who was having a great game of football.
Rugby were off again with a quick break, with Kelsey once again the playmaker, skipping past the opposition defence and forcing the keeper to clear for a corner. Rugby delivered the ball into the box, well caught by their keeper.
Further chances by both teams saw Allexton sky the ball over the crossbar and Kelsey hit the side net of the Allexton goal.
Zoe came on in the second half and played in a couple of defensive positions. Her tenacity and strength a welcome bonus. Liv also provided some strong resistance against the Allexton attackers and worked hard to stay stuck like glue to the opposition to prevent them having clear opportunities on gaol.
Evie also joined for the second half an provided her usual quiet, no nonsense but determined performance. Not a lot gets past Evie if she doesn’t want it to.
Action in the final minutes saw a beautiful save by Sophia who had to produce a massive dive to the left to keep out and Allexton shot.
Summary
A strong and determined performance from the whole team, executing the game plan and staying calm and controlled under pressure for a very well-deserved win and progression to the next round of the league cup on 3rd April at Butlin Road where we host Desford.
Rugby Town 1 – 0 Allexton and New Parks
Scorer: Elle J
POM: Sophia W – for a knockout performance, showing confidence, great decision making and skill.
Captain’s POM: Elle J – for a great individual effort for Rugby’s winning goal and Elle’s first goal upon her return to the club.
Thanks to Manesh for running the line, Jason for refereeing and parents for your support.