Sunday 1st September
Adobe Womens FA Cup – 1st Preliminary Round
Squad: Katie (Captain) Leah, Amber, Kelsey, Robyn, Ava, Ellie, Laura C, Amy, Millie, Loren, Max, Bon,
Sponsor: Melbros, Jamesway Travel, Keller, ASG Precision, Gripper Differentials, LH Services Ltd
The opening game of the 2024/25 season for our Women saw them complete in the Adobe Womens FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round. A somewhat light squad travelled to Bugbrooke on what turned out to be a very hot September afternoon.
The opening 20 mins were all Bugbrooke as they pressed Rugby hard with waves of attack. Rugby defended well and kept their composure and managed some tricky on field decisions well.
The first half continued pretty even, with Rugby seeing some decent periods of play and an amazing number of contested dropped balls? Both teams were finding the weather a formidable opponent, so a drinks break was much appreciated. Both teams had few opportunities for on target shots and the first half finished 0-0.
The second half was similar to the first, with a few chances going begging for both sides. Rugby developed some nice periods of play but were just missing the final link up at the end to convert.
Limited subs meant the Rugby team needed to play smart to ensure they could maintain their performance throughout the game and all the players gave a very good account of themselves in a challenging environment.
Although Rugby were pushing well at the end, they simply ran out of time and the full time score remained 0-0. In this round of the FA cup, there is no extra time, so the game was to be decided by penalties – which regular follows of the team will know is not Rugby’s favoured outcome.
And maybe somewhat prophetically, Bugbrooke did what they needed to do and despite penalties scored by Milly and Ellie, the opposition won 3-2 on penalties, despatching Rugby from the FA Cup and leaving them ruefully reflecting on another cup exit and the hands of the penalty shootout.
However, onwards for Rugby who now turn their attention to the league, having moved into the West Midlands Regional Womens League Division North for this season. With new teams to face, their league campaign starts next Sunday with an away trip to Eccleshall Women.
Many thanks to our supporters who travelled today.