Our Under 11 Wildcats were back in action this morning against a new but talented Corby Town team in an entertaining friendly away from home. In glorious conditions it was great to see the girls back enjoying their football, playing as always in a competitive but fair way with smiles on their faces.
In the absence of a goalkeeper Captain Beth bravely volunteered to go between the sticks and did a fantastic job of collecting up any loose balls in the area whilst showing great distribution to put Rugby back on the attack from goal kicks. Rugby started on the front foot and had the best of the early chances, looking dangerous going forward.
Eleanor was resolute as ever at the heart of the Rugby defence, making some brave tackles and always playing it safe to prevent Corby getting into scoring positions. She was joined by Indie who demonstrated great energy and determination to break up the Corby attack whilst showing how her confidence on the ball is growing with some insightful passing.
Matilda was courageous on the Rugby wing, putting her body on the line for the team as she bombed forwards with great creativity and make several fantastic chances for herself and her teammates. As the game progressed Rugby asserted their dominance and turned chances into a lead with some clinical finishing.
Lola ran her socks off this morning, chasing down every loose ball with scintillating pace and she showed great determination to press Corby high up the pitch, never giving them time to play out from the back. Poppy was exciting to watch and a key part of most Rugby attacks, she showed great skill with the ball at her feet and gave Rugby a hat trick of advantages before half time.
The interval gave Rugby the chance to switch some positions and, after an exciting first half, the game was well set for a close finish. Poppy kindly volunteered to take over in goal and made some fantastic saves in the second half to maintain Rugby’s lead. Beth was determined and strong up front, holding the ball up well and both her and Lola were unlucky not to end up on the scoresheet after carving out some great chances.
Katie was strong and determined in the Rugby defence and Indie showed great pace and commitment in midfield in the second half to round off a great team performance. It was a fantastic, competitive game against talented opposition and great to see the girls back on the pitch. Corby were fantastic hosts and put excellent precautions in place to keep everyone safe – Rugby’s clinical finishing and determined defending proved to be the difference in an exciting match as they came away victorious.
Coaches Player of the Match: Lola showed great energy and determination throughout, creating chances and never stopped running – she’ll be tired this afternoon!
Huge well done to all the Rugby Town girls involved, it was an excellent team performance!