Sunday 26th February 2023
Sponsored by Big Wave Campers,Kelsey Living, Oxygen Graphics, Eclipse Clean, Ados Group Ltd, Life Investments Estate Agents
Immie – GK
Esme – DF
Elsie – DF
Annabelle – DF
Liv – CM
Sophia- RM
Ruby – CM
Emily – LM
Chloe – ST
Subs – Ava, Leila, Erin
A cold but sunny morning welcomed our friends from Rugby Borough to Butlin Road for the latest fixture of El Rugbico, where all the parents were able to get their steps in from the car park bringing with them the usual supporters kit of coat, chair, flask and binoculars.
This weekend was designated as the Silent Support Weekend as part of the FA’s RESPECT campaign, and the guidance of applause only from the sidelines with the aim being to allow youth players to explore their own game, find their voice and take control of the game. Details of this can be found at https://www.
As a cup match, there was an opportunity for some new tactics to be introduced and new positions to be experimented with.
Chloe, Leila and Liv played in rotation up front and created good space and movement off the ball. The midfield was an intense battle where passing was hard to get going, with Ruby working hard to release Emily and Sophia on the wings and Erin and Ava trying to make their usual attacking runs.
The defensive unit of Elsie, Annabelle and Esme were always going to be in for a challenge against their stronger counterparts and put in some tremendous work to tackle, press and cover. Immie showed her usual skill and strength and skill in goal and great communication with her teammates.
What followed was an 8 goal cup tie between two teams that have been evenly matched in all their previous matches this season, and there was even an opportunity for Immie to have a run out as a striker, with Sophia taking the gloves for a turn in goal. The team’s attention will focus back on the league next week.
Parents Player of the Match: Liv, for her goal scoring exploits
Coaches Player of the Match: Immie, for her resilience and determination
A couple of special mentions, firstly to Jasmine, our young referee, who has been taking a number of matches this season and it’s great to see her learning the role. Secondly to the League representatives who were in attendance at the match and were able to share their guidance and advice.