Team: Rishi, Olivia, Bella, Millie, Poppy and Jesmin
With a starting formation of Olivia in Goal, Poppy/ Jesmin defence, Bella midfield and Millie forward. RT had the first chance with a run forward from Millie which saw a penalty appeal from the crowd denied. Another early chance went wide before the opposition began their push. Strong defensive stand from poppy and Jesmin against a very tall/ strong opposition (there must be something in the water in Market harborough). Olivia played a strong role with some solid pick ups before making some great decision making as she varied her passes out, including one central kick which given the right bounce could have made it into the opposition goal. A change saw Rishi come on in a central midfield position. Rishi improving week by week showed her strength on one on one tackles. Millie charging forward was tackled which resulted in a free kick. The kick hit the wall and the opposition gained possession.
Half time
Change of formation saw Olivia onto the pitch as striker, and Bella taking up the goal keeper jersey. Defensively Poppy and Jesmin continued with their battling, which saw a great early pass forward from Jesmin to Olivia which saw the first opportunity of the second half. The attack continued with a push forward from Jesmin, Rishi and Olivia all in the opposition penalty area. Bella in not her usual position showed determination and a no fear approach to goal keeping, rushing out to the edge of the penalty area. Reluctantly, Millie dropped her orange to return to the field. Millie pushed on with some clever footwork passing 2 and then passing forward to Olivia for a shot on goal. Millie then used her pace to pass four along the line before pulling in from the corner for a tight shot with success.
In summary it was a game of superior finishing, against dominance in midfield. RT can take great encouragement from a never give up attitude, strength in tackles and an ever improving squad.
Managers and parents player went to all of the girls this week for a determined performance playing on grass for only the 2nd time this season.
Thank you to Kate for the match report and to all the parents that braved the bitter weather to support your girls