U12A v Denstone College Won 3-2

This match was a definite turning point for us, a new positive attitude and focus, after a team talk before the match.

Denstone, warmed up, came out fighting from the start and scored almost immediately. We were not put off though and kept battling. Olivia C, Fran F and Emma S working hard at the back. Chloe R-S worked tirelessly and displayed some fabulous skill, setting up the ball for Emma H to score a great goal in the 12th minute. Denstone responded by scoring again a few minutes later. 2-1 we had everything to play for and despite great efforts from Lily S, Nancy S and Gabby T, the scored remained until half time.

The second half was incredibly exciting, Emma S had to take a few minutes to rest, so Olivia C stepped in as a kicking back, thankfully her skills were not needed as the team kept the ball in our half, Nancy S equalised in the first 5 minutes. Denstone were awarded a short corner seconds after Emma S came back on, she made a great save, good timing too! It was end to end play for the majority of the half, both sides having opportunities to score. We were awarded a short corner on the stroke of full time, which the rules state has to be played. Chloe R-S wisely decided to have a shot herself, from a spectators point of view, a heart-stopping moment then the realisation she has done it! OH YES! Fantastic stuff - we had won! What a game, what a team - very well done girls! Chloe was awarded Player of the Match for her fine performance, which was commented on by Denstone supporters.

It was a privilege to have Mr B umpiring so competently, giving me a chance to bark at the girls from the sideline - many thanks to our supporters too.

NLW