Women's 1st XI vs Sevenoaks W5

Words:           Kat O’Hara

Oppo:             Sevenoaks 5, Away

Final Score:    L 0-1

Goalscorers:  -

This week, we narrowly avoided a 5-0 walkover and managed to field a team for our incredibly appealing game away at Sevenoaks.

With a strong word from their captain, the girls started strong, exhibiting great patience and discipline with their half court press. This led to a quick turn over and a fantastic shot on goal by Kryssi which painfully rebounded off the post! The team reverted back to their strong defensive set and held Sevenoaks off until a quick succession up the pitch left us 1-0 down.

This little hiccup didn’t stop us. The team kept their heads up and positivity was roaring amongst the team. Shortly after, another great break up the pitch between Maddie and Leanne was powerful but not quite enough to penetrate the attacking D.

Kat led the charge, holding the team’s defensive stance whilst Vicki and Hannah exhibited exceptional positioning, keeping our options for attack available. The half time whistle blew: 1- 0.

After a positive half time talk, the girls returned to the pitch with heads held high. Sevenoaks were held at bay by the strong defensive set of Sally, Bella, Olga, Ineta, and Cheryl who were determined to not allow another ball through. However, soon came our first defensive short corner which was fended off by the team.

Despite brilliant fight from Maddie to hold the ball as she progressed up the pitch and extreme pressure put upon Sevenoaks, it wasn’t long before their second short corner. Another great defence. Nothing was getting past Ville this time. Keeper, Emmelia, was soon shaking her head at her captain whose feet had apparently become prime target for the ball, leading to three more consecutive short corners for Sevenoaks. Yet, these attacks were thwarted yet again by the defence and our determined keeper.

Despite brilliant attacks, commitment and determination, the final score line was 1-0 to Sevenoaks but we walked away happy to have played and proud of the commitment of the team. Not too shabby for a game which was nearly conceded!

Player of the Match: Emmelia (for a series of outstanding saves)

Donkey of the Day: Harriet (for going to the rugby instead)

SQUAD:

Kat O’Hara (Capt), Hannah Ballard, Emmelia Bates, Vicki Bates, Olga Borovyk, Krystina Cumberbirch, Cheryl Macer, Sally Maiden-Tilsen, Leanne McKeverne, Maddie Morgan, Bella Sabin-Dawson, Ineta Undzyte.