The ladies returned to competitive action this evening with their first fixture in the Women’s Floodlit Division, facing Lane Head, a fast and well-organised side known for their intensity and attacking threat.
With no pre-season matches under their belt, our squad understandably started a little rusty. Lane Head applied early pressure, and despite some solid defensive efforts, we conceded an unfortunate goal. A loose ball bobbled unpredictably through a crowded box, evading multiple players before catching our keeper Chez off guard and rolling into the net.
Undeterred, the team began to settle and grow into the game, gradually finding rhythm and confidence. Our equaliser came from a moment of brilliance – a perfectly weighted through ball released G into space, who showed great composure to slot the ball low into the corner and level the score at 1–1.
At the break, we regrouped and reflected on our first-half performance. While the long-ball approach had yielded some chances, it lacked structure and style. We made tactical adjustments to tighten our shape and nullify Lane Head’s attacking options based on their patterns of play. The changes paid off quickly. Molly found herself in a dangerous position and, with a clever assist from G, fired us into a 2–1 lead.
We continued to create chances and eventually extended our advantage. Molly launched a superb throw-in to Summer, who controlled the ball with poise before unleashing a powerful strike. The shot was mishandled by the Lane Head keeper and rolled into the net, giving us a deserved 3–1 cushion.
The final five minutes were a test of resilience. Lane Head threw everything forward in search of a comeback, and fatigue began to show across our back line. But thanks to a heroic defensive effort, particularly from Brooke and Chez, we held firm. Chez pulled off several crucial saves, earning a well-deserved Player of the Match accolade.
It wasn’t our most polished performance, but it was gritty, determined and ultimately effective. The three points see us climb to third in the table with two games in hand and everything to play for.
Well done to all the players for their effort and adaptability, and a special shoutout to Chez for her outstanding display between the sticks.
