24th November 2024 KO: 13:00
Squad: Norah, Eve, Holly, Sienna W, Amy, Poppy, Bella, Izzy O, Esme, Hetty, Izzy C, Emy-Mae
Sponsors: Hamilton Medical and Life Investments Estate Agency
As we all looked out the window on Sunday morning we were welcomed to storm Bert, bringing with it heavy rain and gusty winds! Luckily the protected Astro pitch at Butlin Road allowed this fixture to still go ahead as we faced Thurmaston Magpies U12’s. Which on paper was going to be an interesting and close fixture with both teams currently holding a higher and close league position.
As the match kicked off early warnings signalled, like Storm Bert. With wave after wave of excellent early attacking football from the away team and without some good goal keeping, strong defending and a little bit of luck from the woodwork we might have been a couple of goals down in the early opening period. Despite this early pressure, Rugby soon build up its own momentum and free flowing football.
Using the width of the pitch well with some fast paced and skilful wing play, the Rugby girls opened up the Thurmaston defence several times, resulting in some good chances and finishing, enabling Rugby to end the half 2-0.
As the second half kicked off, Rugby built on its advantage with more positive attacking football, taking the game to the away team. Passing was again good, whilst keeping the pressure on the Thurmaston defensive players. Rugby Town from this increased its advantage by an extra 2 well taken clinical goals again without reply. This seemed to inspire Thurmaston during the end period of the second half, attacking the Rugby defensive half and an inspired goal keeping display which ensured a clean sheet for the home team. Despite this Rugby still threatened with attacks and near the end a good opportunity was nearly seized but not this time.
As the final whistle blew, the Rugby U12 girls should be very pleased with the match display. With increased passing, positional awareness, strong play, bags of enthusiasm and drive which all resulted in a highly entertaining game which was a complement to both teams who played so well despite the tricky stormy and wet conditions.
FT 4-0
POM: Izzy C for strong defensive play, controlling the left side and attacking with supportive play.
PPOM: Sienna W for supporting play on the wing, utilising the width, and well timed crosses increasing scoring opportunities.
Eve ⚽️⚽️⚽️
Sienna W ⚽️
Well done team!