A fresh looking Rugby Town team welcomed a number of new signings to the squad as they faced a tough test at home to familiar rivals Whetstone. It was a hugely competitive affair with little to separate the two teams, and the girls had to dig deep if they wanted to take anything from the game.
In the absence of regular goalkeeper Layla, Ria volunteered to go between the sticks and looked assured throughout, she distributed the ball well and made a vital save in the second half with an outstretched toe to keep Whetstone at bay. Izzy showed great maturity in central defence, communicating brilliantly to keep all of the girls organized and focused, whilst still being first to react to the danger.
Alongside her Lena was brave in her tackles and made some vital interceptions and big clearances to ensure the home goal never came under too much pressure. Rugby had the better of the first half, creating a host of chances but unable to convert them. Ronniee was instrumental in central midfield on her debut, breaking up play well and always looking to find a teammate in space when she had the ball (this is our focus atm and my favourite thing to see!)
Sophia H slotted effortlessly into defence on her debut, she more than matched the older girls’ using her strength and tenacity to her advantage, and never put the team at risk. Ella came on to lead the Rugby attack and later battled tirelessly in midfield as she showed her versatility and determination.
Isobel was dominant in the centre of midfield, creating problems going forward as she passed players with ease and created a number of scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. Aurora was also unlucky not to end up on the scoresheet as she tested the opposition goalkeeper from every angle and could feel harshly treated at times by a rather “enthusiastic” linesman!
Sophie looked lively on the Rugby wing in another confident debut; she showed great energy getting up and down the left flank to support the team going forward whilst also chasing back to support the defence. Whetstone were unlucky not to take the lead with a fantastic free kick from distance which (thankfully) ricocheted off the Rugby bar.
The match was eventually decided by an outrageous long-distance effort from debutant Esme who gave the keeper no chance with a cleanly struck strike – Esme looked dangerous going forward and it was fantastic to see her efforts rewarded. Sophia led the Rugby attack and battled throughout against the tallest defence we’re likely to see in this age group; nonetheless she was always a yard ahead and quickest to react as her experience shined through.
All in all a fantastic result which was well deserved and a positive performance from all of the girls, particularly since many of them were playing together for the first time. Exciting times ahead for this great group and I’m sure they’ll have a wonderful season.
Player of the Match was awarded to Isobel who was hugely influential in a position she’s not used to; she showed great energy driving forward with pace and creating opportunities. Well done Isobel.
Apologies for my lack of photography skills and thank you to Dean for assisting and running the line, Dave for refereeing and all of our parents for their positive support.