26th November 2023 – KO 10:30
Sponsors: Hamilton Medical and Life Investments Estate Agency
SQUAD: Esme, Alexis, Sienna M., Sienna W., Eve, Emy-Mae, Izzy, Annalise, Dotty
With what felt like sub-zero temperatures greeting the girls to yet another away fixture, this was our fifth consecutive and 8th overall away game this season. Pre-match thanks also to the parents for helping the team warm up in the cold with a bit of passing and shooting practice pre kick off. As prepared to face FC Burbage Reds U10 on a heavy going pitch with equal amounts of mud and grass.
From the kick-off whistle the girls seemed to struggle to get going, maybe a bit down to the cold weather. This gave the home team the initial opening advantage as they effectively pressed Rugby. This moment seemed to spark the Rugby girls into a response and build up a flow of momentum. This pressure seemed to force the Burbage team to play deeper with numbers behind the ball to counter the free flowing Rugby attacking football. As the first half progressed Rugby Town pressure eventually flipped the advantage to the away team. Highlight from the half was the strong midfield running and excellent wide and striker play linked to overall team understanding.
As the second half kicked off, Rugby built quickly on its first half gains and maintained pressure and opportunities. Throughout this period the defence were strong and controlled as we built our attacking play from the back and effectively moved the ball forward to create numerous chances until the final whistle was heard.
A special mention needs to be made to both Rugby Town goalkeepers who played in extremely cold conditions whilst still keeping alert to any inbound threats to goal. This was another game that again demonstrated the teams fantastic ability to play as a well organised unit with good understanding, highlighting the value of team play with some excellent passing and finishing. With a real strength in battling for the 50/50 ball throughout the entire game. This was set against the backdrop of a hardworking home team who also fought hard for ever ball. In summary another highly enjoyable and entertaining game, thank you Rugby girls U10’s.
POM: Annalise, for excellent positional play and ball control under pressure.
PPOM: Emy-Mae. Great return and e2e display whilst covering every blade of grass and mud with the aim to bring in others to ensure a great team performance.
