Sunday January 15th 2023 KO 10:30
Squad: Phoebe, Sienna M., Emilia, Emy-Mae, Alexis, Roisin, Izzy, Esme
This was Rugby Towns U9’s second game and home match in 2023 against Anstey Nomads U9’s Wildcats. The coaching team had a squad of 8 players to rotate throughout the match. The game played over 2 x 20 minute periods.
The girls started in a positive manner but in a similar fashion to the week before were put under significant pressure by the opposition in the opening minutes by some good play by Anstey. However. Rugby soon stepped up a gear and entered their stride with a sustained period of pressure, possession, and positive play. The output was numerous waves of Rugby forward fast runs, Rugby did eventually capitalise on winning possession from the Anstey defence, however, Anstey didn’t waste time and continued their strong attack up until the half whistle.
The second period of 20 minutes started well again, with several moments of strong attacking football and good teamwork. Anstey built confidence in the last 10 mins and they counter attacked in a style that made it difficult for Rugby to defend against.
In the final minutes, Rugby U9s produced a moment of magic with an excellent zig zag movement from deep within the Rugby Town half, linked to some excellent one touch football and to lift the girl’s spirits in the final minutes. This also demonstrated how well they can play as a team with such a free flowing end to end fast paced and effective style. The whole team worked hard and again proved how entertaining as a team they are to watch. They kept going until the final whistle and as a team they never gave up and kept smiling.
POM: Emy-Mae, for excellent judgement and interceptions, followed by immediate swift counter attacking.
PPOM: Emilia and Sienna M., for hardworking and industrious display throughout the game.