Rugby Town Girls u10s entertained Kibworth Town at Kilsby Lane with the biggest squad we’ve ever had and all the girls were in good spirits after the Christmas break. This meant lots of changes with fresh legs helping Rugby compete with many girls still playing an age group above where they should be.
It was a competitive, hard fought start with both teams having chances but the opposition goalkeeper was definitely the busier of the two. Some great fighting spirit from Poppy and Hav down the left hand side saw a great move finished off by Bethany to give Rugby the early advantage. The first half was a tight affair and the defensive partnership of Lila and Isobel showed great determination and were strong in their tackles in front of Hev who looked assured in goal. Katie and Aurora didn’t stop running in midfield and battled for every ball up and down the pitch.
Rugby were rewarded for their hard work with a long range effort from Captain Lila extending their advantage. The first of many substitutions saw Connie and Ella slot effortlessly into defence and both girls showed great maturity dealing with the Kibworth attack, always playing it safe to keep the opposition away from the Rugby goal. Ria put in a battling effort in defence and midfield today, showing great energy to cover the whole pitch, but Kibworth found a way to halve Rugby’s advantage before half time.
The second half saw more changes with Hav deputising for her sister in goal and Hev putting in a tireless performance up front which saw her rewarded with a third for Rugby. Kibworth were able to draw level in the second half but all the girls showed great strength and determination, kept their positions well and moved into space to help their teammates. Poppy and Aurora were a constant danger down each wing and Rugby were exciting to watch going forward.
Katie and Bethany showed great support in the defensive midfield role, often thwarting the Kibworth attack in its early stages. If the game had gone on for another ten minutes Rugby were on the front foot and I’m sure their dominance would have shown. All the girls put in great individual performances today and it was wonderful to see the team play with coherence, determination and such a positive attitude. Their partnerships across the pitch continue to develop and every member of the squad should be proud of their performance.
Parent’s Player of the Match: Poppy showed great footwork and skill on the wing once again put in another great performance.
Manager’s Player of the Match: Aurora didn’t stop running, fought for every ball and showed great energy going forward and tracking back.
Thanks to Alice for refereeing the game.