The Lightning Squad had their first 9v9 match on Sunday with the offside rule in play! Although the score wasn’t in our favour, it was a great and promising start to the season for them!

The sun was shining, and the girls had a good start to the game putting all the things they’ve learned over the past few months in to play. They’ve learned a new formation for the new 9v9 challenge and held it well throughout. The girls are finding their voices and communicating a lot more to each other already, which boosted their confidence and for the first 20 minutes, we controlled the play. Unfortunately, Priory broke through our defence on the transition and managed to hit the target…. But back to the start to reset and we still worked hard for each other. Our defence were tested for the rest of the half but had some crunching tackles, great pressing and clearing the ball out. Chloe showed great team work by supporting throughout the defensive end and making some brilliant passes up the field. Our keeper took a knock to the knee whilst making a brilliant save but did carry on after a short break!

Our midfield pairing of Evie and Scarlett covered a lot of ground over the first 15 minutes and the heat made it harder to keep up the work rate, a quick substitution and Edie moved up in to midfield to give some fresh legs. A lovely paring to watch play together, they give great strength and commitment to winning the ball and creating opportunities. Edie is a real tactical thinker and reads the game beautifully, causing some trouble for the opposition. 

Some great play from a new pairing up front with Molly and Crystal, working hard off the ball and waiting to pounce on the ball when it was slotted through the Priory Defence. Molly’s close ball skills are improving, and she showed us some amazing turns with the ball. Crystal was on form, hassling for anything that came near her and winning the ball to set herself running down the wing before cutting in and heading for goal. Both players are showing a lot of promise for this season.

Half time score 1-0 Priory.

The second half saw changes so all the girls got time on the pitch. The defence were tested straight from the off but Sienna ran her socks off to deny the opposition numerous times, her tackles were amazing and she moved the ball out to release Keeley, who literally runs like lightning, down the wing showing great control as she flew and waiting for the right time to release the ball to the new pairing up front. Sharay and Mia were waiting. Once Sharay got the ball, she used her speed and strength to slalom past players and go for goal, she’s not afraid to go for it and this lifted the team!

Once again, Priory broke through and scored their second goal with 10 minutes to go. We carried on fighting for the ball and creating chances but couldn’t get in the back o the net. I’m really pleased with the entire team’s effort, commitment and drive. They’re learning every week and I’ve no doubt that they will come back next week with the same attitude!

Final score 2-0 to Priory Celtic.

GOTG went to Edie for her fantastic determination, support, direction and vision throughout the game.