Perhaps it was due to the change of the clocks and the girls losing an hour’s sleep, but Rugby had a somewhat tentative start away at Oadby Owls this morning.
Despite the advantage of a downward slope, it was the 19th minute before a scrap in the box led to Rugby’s first goal from Lauren.
Two substitutions 25 minutes in allowed for a shuffle of positions which seem to reinvigorate the team. Holly struck home from 20 yards to give the 15s a 2 – 0 lead before swiftly taking the ball on a run, to score her second just two minutes later. With Oadby slightly stunned at the sudden change in tempo, Lauren promptly found the back of the net too. 3 goals in three minutes saw Rugby 4 – 0.
Oadby weren’t without their chances, getting through the Rugby defence on a number of occasions. Some brave decisions from Rugby’s sub goalie Emily, and a disallowed goal (offside) in the 34th minute, meant a frustrated Oadby weren’t on the scoresheet at half time. A more confident Rugby were sat high atop their 4 – 0 cushion.
With some injury concerns at half time Kacie and Megan left the pitch and another player reshuffle ensued. Both teams upped their games for the second half. Oadby were determined to fight back. Rugby were equally determined to hold them off and extend their lead. With Rugby playing on the uphill they were tasked with making Oadby’s defence turn and run.
Given the opportunity to play in central midfield, Cait took to the challenge and sent home a cross from Holly in the 52nd minute. For Oadby it seemed it was the story of their season; chances made and chances missed. For 20 minutes the game continued end to end with both teams creating opportunities. Oadby were quick on the downhill run and the uphill had clearly tired the orange clad legs a little. On the 75th minute Oadby finally broke through on target but any hope of a late comeback was quickly stamped out.
A cross from Cait into the box duly found Chloe who sent in Rugby’s sixth with just 2 minutes to go. A quick restart and Lauren had gained her hat-trick before the minute-hand had chance to move on.
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