MATCH REPORT : Sunday 20th October. Woking Cougars (H) 5-1

When the alarm went off at 8am the sky was inky black and there was squally rain. But arriving in Bushy Park, we were met by sunshine and we had the perfect weather for a game of football.

The start was tense. Teddington conceded a couple of corners and the ball cut through our penalty box with no one clearing properly. (!!! NOTE FOR COACHES!!!) Thankfully the opposition also failed to connect and the girls survived. Soon after, nerves were calmed as Hannah Reiter broke down the right wing, cut inside, and slammed it past the keeper into the left hand-side of the goal. Power Play. 1-0.

More corners followed with Woking coming close from an excellent header – but Kathryn held and caught the ball well (your blogger fills with pride and much relief). (Brilliant reaction save Katherine!! EJ & CP)

Soon after, following some good pressure from Teddington, Lola broke through the middle and showed commitment and composure to knock it past the goalie. 2-0.

Woking struck back when the ball broke past our defensive line and their striker kicked past the on-rushing Kathryn. 2-1. That was the score at half time which, considering the number of chances Woking had created, was perhaps flattering.

The second half was very different. Our defence was much stronger, and the whole team showed greater commitment and physicality. The first goal of the half came from Charlotje who controlled the ball in the penalty box, then turned to shoot into the left-hand side of the goal. 3-1.

Elin was next on the score sheet, striking past the goalkeeper after Lola had deftly slotted the ball through the line of defenders. 4-1. Then another strong shot from Charlotje from the edge of the box took the score to 5-1. Woking could not match Teddington’s skill and power, and after two of their players had limped off the pitch, their manager abandoned the game with ten minutes still to play. Final score, a well-deserved 5-1.

How did the Boss feel about today’s performance?

‘Pride. Joy. There was a good response to the half-time team talk.’

And the girls?

‘Yay!’ – Alice; ‘Amazing Play’ – Ruby.

And the view from the touch line?

‘The heavens opened to greet the girls’ victory with blue sky and sunshine’ (Carlos the poet).

‘The opposition had very nice socks’ (Anonymous).

Player of the match: Lola. ‘Because, apart from her goal and excellent passing, she kept the ball under control before playing forward’ (Assistant Coach).

Well done everyone!

(Dan)

Scorers: Lotty (2), Hannah Reiter, Lola, Elin