Sunday 10th November 2024
Team Sponsors: ADOS LTD, Oxygen Graphics, Big Wave Campers, Eclipse Clean, Kelsy Living, Life Investments Estate Agency
In a highly anticipated clash, Whetstone faced off against Rugby Town in what turned out to be a thrilling and bruising encounter, particularly for some of the Rugby Town players, more on that later. After observing a minute’s silence for Remembrance Sunday the game kicked off just after 14:00, Rugby in their new kit kindly provided by Ados. From the outset, Rugby Town displayed their attacking and determined prowess, shouty Dave had given his Keegan inspired pre-match team talk and the girls had all listened intently and began to execute the plan. Kicking uphill in the first half didn’t seem to cause Rugby too many problems as Ioana had a good shot at the start of the game. Whetstone were a strong side and soon got into the game, after a corner resulted in a save by Jasmine. Amelia was keeping Whetstone at bay with a number of good tackles in defence before Ioana then went on a mazy run through Whetstone’s defence to net the first goal, beating the goalkeeper with a well timed shot into the corner.
**Score Update:** Whetstone 0 – 1 Rugby Town
However, the lead was short-lived. A missed tackle allowed Whetstone to break through, and they seized the opportunity, levelling the score just before halftime. A good finish from the Whetstone striker with just Jasmine to beat.
**Half-time:** Whetstone 1 – 1 Rugby Town
The second half began with Rugby Town attacking downhill. Megan struck a beautiful shot from outside the box after the ball came out to her, putting Rugby Town ahead once again. Leila came agonisingly close to increasing the lead, hitting both the post and the bar in quick succession. Poppy had much success down the right wing regularly beating her player to get the ball across the box.
**Score Update:** Whetstone 1 – 2 Rugby Town
Yet, Whetstone refused to back down. They managed to equalise once more with a lofted ball that slipped over Jasmine in goal.
**Full-time:** Whetstone 2 – 2 Rugby Town
Whetstone’s physical style of play. The uneven, sloping pitch further added to the challenges faced by both teams. Rugby Town’s Poppy stood out with her long throws, while the entire team showcased commendable battling spirit throughout the game and certainly got into the business of the Whetstone players. Caitlin also had to go off after taking a ball to the face with some brave defending, get well soon Caitlin. Delia making her debut in defence also did well in her first game with some good clearances.
Despite the draw, Rugby Town’s performance was much improved and it was pleasing to see what had been worked on in training being translated into the Sunday match. The girls all battled so hard and were so unlucky not to win the match.
Coaches player Ioana
Stepped up today to play as a striker alongside Leila, worked tirelessly for the team in an unfamiliar position and was rewarded with a well taken goal.
Thanks to quiet Dave who’s role now includes keeper of the jewellery and shouty Dave who is chief “get in their business” motivator. Thanks to Whetstone for hosting, thanks to the referee and to the linesman, especially Dean who was excellent and got all his throw-ins correct.