Date: 2 May 2021 / Venue: Kimberley Leisure Centre 

Arnold Eagles Hawks u11s vs Priory Celtic u11s 

Today’s starting line-up was:

Ava (GK), Bethany, Heidi, Izzy, Jess, Millie & Thea. The subs were Clarissa, Lucy & Peyton.

The first 15 minutes saw the Hawks dominating possession and continuously looking dangerous with some excellent passing throughout the team. The first goal came soon after, with Jess receiving the ball outside the opposition box. A pass was on, but Jess dropped her shoulder, took it past the last defender and smashed it in the bottom corner. Two more chances came quickly after that, but unfortunately, both shots were dragged wide. Heidi caused problems down the right wing, getting some great crosses into the box. Izzy and Thea were having a great game at the back, clearing the ball away several times to our midfield, with Millie like a terrier in the centre. 

After making our substitutions, Priory came more into the game. Another Hawk’s corner was taken and cleared, but only to Lucy who controlled the bouncing ball, chipping the ball back into the box; catching the keeper by surprise! (and most of the onlooking spectators!) 

So at half time the girls came in for a well-earned drink, with Dean and Tara talking about the positives – great passing, movement and determination by all of them. Thea and Peyton were creating some good chances with their fluent attacking play.The main message for the second half being, not to lose focus and to maintain the pressureA change of keeper was made for the second half, with Jess replacing Ava in goal after having not seen much action, but doing the simple things well; including great distribution. Then it was back for the second half.

We started brightly again, immediately putting pressure on the Priory defence. The girls seemed to be as determined, continuing to try really hard. Following some great attacking play by Bethany on the right and Heidi on the left more chances came. Ava was also doing a great job of supporting Millie in midfield. Bethany and Heidi were also combining well, causing plenty of problems for the Priory defence.We had the better of the play overall, but following a good passage of play by Priory; in particular their numbers 8 and 13. Priory got their reward with a goal which wasn’t cleared by Arnold and found its way into the goal through a crowd of players, giving Jess little chance of keeping it out. The Hawks didn’t let this setback affect them. They seized back control, dominating the final stages of the game! Clarissa played her part in the latter goals, with steely determination, winning some great tackles for her team. The rotation of defenders in the second half helped to keep things balanced, with Izzy working alongsidePeytontight at the back,  giving Thea a well-earned rest!

At full time, plenty of red faces and tired players and plenty of smiles! A great performance following what has been a difficult time for all. Dean summarised by saying that this was probably the best performance by the girls for a long time; with everyone playing their part in a very dominant performance. Priory Celtic girls ; having worked very hard throughout, and in a very sporting manner gave the Hawks three cheers! The Hawks responded with three cheers back to Priory.

Player of the Match for a brilliant performance and first Hawks goal went to Lucy. Well done!