Sunday 8 th January 2023
Sponsor: FORD Bros building & Electrical and Life Investments Estate Agency
Squad: Agga, Alice, Beth, El, Elisa, Emmi, Katie, Lena, Lola, Macy, Maddie, Matilda, Poppy, Ruby
Rugby Town u13s Lionesses travelled to Syston, in a top of the table clash. Rugby won a close 1 nil in the previous meeting, and were hoping to continue their good form, despite a long break over the Christmas period .
The game started brightly, with both teams trying to put pressure on the other . Both teams looked evenly matched, and the defensive players of Maddie, Lena, Alice and Ruby who all did well to contain the Syston attacks, and worked well in front on Emmi in goal who was commanding her area well
A midfield of Katie, El, Poppy, Elisa and Macy rotated during the game and were involved in some strong play and had to battle throughout the game. Lola also returning from a long period of injury, had her first game and got some important match fitness and linked up well. Matilda paired up with Beth and Aga during the game and were keen to make chances. This was an enforced change and the girls did really well to adapt.
The game was tight throughout, as both teams knew how important this result was for the top spot in the league. However Syston did manage to take a 1 nil lead with a great strike which was no fault of the Rugby defence or keeper. Rugby kept up their efforts, but with 5 minutes left in the half. Emmi was involved in a clash of legs with the Syston striker and had to come off injured. Beth stepped into goal to see the half out. In the second half Aga as captain bravely accepted the responsibility of going in goal for the second half, and made a couple of great saves.
Both teams did not take their foot off the gas, and the game finished 1-0 to Syston. Syston motivated by the result of the last meeting did have the edge during the game, but with a enforced change in attack and goal, the Rugby Town girls can take pride in their performance. This was Rugby’s first taste of defeat this season, but were determined to not let it effect them.
Final score 1-0
Parents player: Aga for a strong performance up front, and for a great display in goal.
Managers player: Lena for a strong performance in defence.
Thank you to Pete for assisting and running the line, and thanks to the parents for their fantastic support of the girls