22nd March 2009
Arnold Town YFC (Yellow) 3 - 10 Radcliffe Olympic

Arriving at Eagle valley, it was much windier than we thought. There were also several games going on.   An excellent setup and credit to Arnold for their new facilities.   All the girls are there on time and ready to go, except one who has forgotten her boots... no names...

After a hard working warm up we have the girls ready to go... Several parents ask the same question "Are they up for it today?" Well... I have worked with these girls for 2 years now and I really haven't got a clue when they're up for it and not. Indeed I have been spectacularly wrong in my predictions so now I just say "Let's wait and see..." What a cop out.. should be a politician!

It is a small pitch and the fear is that this will curtail our football ideal. But Shannon wins the toss and we're off. This Arnold team beat Linby recently and cannot be underestimated.   A tough opening then sees a great ball by Torres behind the fullback, pounced on by Asha and a cool finish see the Blues with the early advantage.   Then Groundhog Day takes over, replace Torres with Hannah and Asha comes up with the same result 2- 0 to the Blues.   Then a piece of magic from Ellie A, Hannah crosses and Ellie controls turns, twists and shoots... goal. Superb. 3-0 Blues. Close your eyes... imagine... Crouch at speed, keeper saves... Hannah finishes... 4-0 to the Blues.  

Brilliant from the Blues so far against a very good Arnold team. Then, Arnold hit back and make it 4-1. Well done... Just before half time Hannah chips in from the edge of the box and is immediately substituted... Thanks coach... 5- 1 to the Blues.   Half time whistle.

Half time team talk...  what to say? Superb display... more of the same... into the wind so the ball will hold up for our forwards... keep playing it through.

Second half starts and the highlight is a hat trick from Crouch... Asha scores another to complete her hat trick also... Quality girls... Well done but we can't afford one match ball each!! Ellie Aucott holds her position to sneak a second goal for her and double figures for the Blues. She has been the outstanding player today. Why couldn't we do this in the previous two games? Anyway, today is a good day and sees the Blues back on course.

A late consolation goal from Arnold is well deserved and they have enough quality players to cause any team a problem. Today was the Blues day when we were at our clinical best (I don't say that very often!)

Well done both teams and a big hand to Arnold for keeping going when things were rough. You were a credit to your team girls and we know how you feel. Well done to the Blues. A great performance in difficult conditions and against dangerous opponents.

Team: Shannon (C), Beth, Lily W, Amy M, Lily M, Asha, Lampard, Hannah, Keals, Torres, Crouch

Subs (all used): Sugs, Sharmy

Player of the match: Ellie A (chosen by Neil)