Girls' 1st XI v Worksop, W5-2

Date: Saturday 3rd October

Venue:
Away, depart 12.20 pm

Team:
A.Church, M.Byas, S.Hawkins, A.Krone, L.McIntosh, R.Siebert, S.McCallin, J.Leigh, L.Smith, R.Rogers, W.Mumby, R.Brown, E.Green (Capt.), E.Gray (14)

Result:
Worksop 2-5 Repton

Joanna Leigh (F, F, F) Rebecca Brown (F, F)
Match Report:


Without doubt the tempo set for the opening exchanges in this game was predominantly due to Worksop's energy both on the ball and off it and times Repton couldn't establish their preferred patterns of play. Worksop had a good chance in the second minute, and even with good possession in attacking areas, Repton were not able to convert this into chances. Worksop were first on the score sheet when they exposed Repton at the back through their greater numbers in midfield, and the opportunity was well finished. At this stage if the game, Worksop were more than full value for their lead as we were simply too eager to get the ball into attacking areas, conceding too many turnovers in the process.


As the first half developed, Repton had a chance cleared by a defender from the goal line after the keeper was beaten before Jo Leigh finished one of Repton's better first half plays from the left of the circle with a well struck shot. This highlighted that when we were able to hold possession for longer, and move the compact Worksop defence around the field first, then opportunities would develop. This was the case twice more before half time as Jo Leigh added her second and Bex Brown finished a tidy attacking play around the circle.


With some improved individual defending in the second half, we made it harder for Worksop to gain territory but they maintained a great pace in their game, defending from the front with great energy. Repton added two more well finshed goals. Jo Leigh made it three for the afternoon and Bex Brown two after some fine individual work form Shona McCallin. One goal was conceded from the only defensive corner of the afternoon - a very well taken goal from Worksop's german midfield player, who was highly impressive all afternoon.


Although not the most polished performance of the season so far, this team will benefit from the different challenges this game brought in terms of playing surface, tempo and conditions. At times you need to ensure that possession and continuity are the primary considerations when you are on the ball as without either of these, scoring is almost impossible. A sign of a good team though is one that can grind out results when needed without getting everything right and this was achieved today. I think we can almost guarantee we will see this Worksop team again in the Midlands stages of the schools competition later this term.