League Shield Match
Sunday 3rd April
Squad: Sophia, Jasmine, Olivia, Ruby, Anya, Esme, Ava, Chloe, Erin
Sponsor: Ados Group Ltd
After the disappointment of the cup exit the previous week on penalties, Rugby had an opportunity to redeem themselves in the shield (Europa League rather than Champions League this time round) at Butlin Road.
Rugby started the game with purpose and intent, an early cross from Ruby and then a good shot from Erin that was well saved by the Anstey goalkeeper. It wasn’t long before Rugby had a successful attack with Chloe finishing well. Jasmine in goal was being protected from the Anstey attacks by Anya in midfield and Olivia in defence. Jasmine did have to clear smartly from one attack and came off her line quickly to clear the danger.
Ruby then had another shot that just went wide followed by a shot from Erin and another shot from Anya. It was clear that Rugby had got over the previous game in the way that they started this one.
After a great move involving three Rugby players Sophia finished well. It was now time for Tristan and Simon to bring on their subs with Esme and Ava coming on. Rugby continued to attack with Ruby shooting just wide and a shot rebounding off Ava which the Anstey goalkeeper did well to save.
The sun was now out and Rugby were enjoying the game as much as the parents were enjoying the sun being out. Chloe had a shot that went wide and another shot was well held by the Anstey goalkeeper.
Into the second half and Olivia, who had been excellent in defence in the first half, took over in goal with Jasmine going up front for the second half. It didn’ take long for Rugby to be successful in attack again with Chloe with a good finish.
Rugby were now enjoying themselves and playing some very entertaining football. Anya had another shot that went over and then in quick succession Jasmine and Chloe both hit the post.
Sophia was then successful again with a good finish from close range, Soon after Chloe had a shot saved and Jasmine had another shot saved. Anstey continued to attack in the second half but Esme was immense in defence and was able to clear when required but also distribute out the ball to start Rugby on the attack again.
Rugby attacked again and the ball came out to Anya on the edge of the area, after controlling the ball a great shot found the back of the net. Anstey did not give up and continued to go forward but Olivia was able to save well.
Rugby had not finished and were going forward in waves, Sophia successful again with a shot that went in off the post. Ruby was still full of energy and was driving Rugby forward at every opportunity, each time getting to the line and putting in great crosses for the Rugby strikers. Jasmine then hit the post again with a smart shot before Ruby had a shot go just wide.
A great effort from Rugby this week after last week, with some good finishes, some great link up play and great energy from the team for the entire game.
Coaches player of the match – Esme
Parents player of the match – Ruby
Thanks to Tristan & Simon (with a special mention for managing to open the first aid kit) for coaching the team during the game, to Anstey for a great game, to Tony for refereeing and to all the parents for their ongoing support.