Mud, wet and cheers for Fox Valley Strikers from the USA
So it may officially be British Summer Time but there was nothing summery about the weather for Wednesday’s annual grassroots international.
With the heavens having been open for most of the day, the team from Fox Valley Strikers / Celtics could have been forgiven for arriving at Kilsby Lane by ark rather than by coach. As their coach made it through the rising waters, they were greeted by the sight of the U15s coaching team and parents frantically poking and prodding the pitch in a vain attempt at dispersing the flood waters that had started pooling on the pitch. Declaring they had played on much worse, the Americans teasingly declared us “spoilt” (had they really seen the pitch?!) and the game went ahead, albeit a little later than planned.
As the handshake took place across the pond that had once been the centre circle, smiles and laughs were exchanged that exemplified the spirit of the game. Rugby even cheekily attempted to start with 12 players on the pitch!
The players slowly grew accustomed to the bog underfoot as the ball continuously stuck fast and refused to travel. As the girls slipped and slid, it soon became apparent that if it hadn’t been for ‘risk to life’ of the ball, cross country spikes may have proved more useful than studs. Whilst both teams carved out chances, it was the Americans who managed to convert opportunities into goals, securing an early 2 nil lead.
With a league cup semi-final just around the corner, injuries were a worry for the U15s. After Kerri collided with the post, Kacie pulled her hip and with Megan just back from a shoulder injury, this international friendly was not a time to take risks. With some players subsequently playing out of their usual positions the Rugby formation suffered a little.
The Strikers had clearly prepared for the pool-like conditions with a substitution routine that wouldn’t have looked out of place at the Synchronised Swim World Championships. Four on, four off with precision timing; so slick no-one was quite sure if the ref even noticed!
The second half was a mirror image of the first. Another two goals to the US team, and a couple of missed attempts by the Rugby U15s. Rugby weren’t without ideas, their play continued to improve and come together throughout the half despite the deteriorating conditions. But as full time drew near, the pitch began to resemble a wallow in places, and with many of the U15s having played in a schools tournament throughout the day, mud laden boots quickly zapped any remaining energy from their legs. Here, the Americans won out. As a team that plays and trains significantly more, their fitness carried them through the whole match to secure a 4 nil win.
With the light fading, temperatures dropping and appetites growing, the teams headed inside for a warming sausage and chip supper. This was what the game had really been about; making friendships and connections. With gifts exchanged it was time to send the Strikers / Celtics on their way with our thanks, apologies for the Great weather, and three cheers.