29th January 2023
Sponsored by Big Wave Campers, Kelsey Living, Ados Group Ltd, Oxygen Graphics, Eclipse Clean and Life Investments Estate Agents
Immie – GK
Annabelle – DF
Amelia – DF
Ruby – CM
Erin – CAM
Sophia – ST
This weeks match was scheduled to be away, but was relocated to the playing field at Whinfield Rec instead due to a match cancellation. Not every member of the Rugby Town squad was able to attend the rearranged fixture given the very late notice given by the opposition.
In what turned out to be a very one sided fixture (literally…) Rugby completely dominated the match with a total of 25 penalties, 9 free kicks and only 2 corners. Following an excellent free kick from Erin, the team adopted a somewhat controversial policy of having 3 goalkeepers at once. This was of particular frustration for Ruby who is normally so accurate with her set pieces.
With so many penalties being taken, Immie demonstrated a series of fine saves to deny Sophia, Annabelle, Erin and Ruby. Amelia showed her composure in finishing cooly from the spot and then having the decency to go and collect the ball from the shrubbery.
Annabelle and Sophia demonstrated their increased understanding with some neat passing moves and close range finishes from Ruby and Amelia was able to show her energy and tackling skill by challenging every other player. In the closing moments, Sophia had a corner kick that was unlucky to hit the crossbar. From the resulting clearance, a free kick was given on the edge of the area and in an unusual move, the substitute substitute linesman came on to make a guest appearance and take the kick. Think David Beckham against Greece… except in this case the goalkeeper made a fine save to deny the ball going into the top corner with a cry of “…saved it Dad..!!” and secure bragging rights in the Green household.
With the temperature dropping and the parents getting cold, full time was called with Erin having completed the entire match without falling over, Immie managing to get every single item of her clothing dirty and apparently Annabelle winning Wembley Singles that none of the supporters saw take place.
The manager will have been pleased with Rugby Town having 100% possession and no injuries.