Well done to all who played this Sunday. QPR were always going to be a tough team to take on, but we proved we have NOTHING to be scared of!
Playing a new tactic, with a revised formation, you raised your game and took them on.
OK.. So we conceded two soppy goals in the first half, but they were accidents. The scoreline at half time DID NOT reflect the game we were playing. Indeed, their managers were overheard saying how good we were, with Kathryn getting specific praise for her hard work and 'presence' in the box.
Our strength at the back cut out nearly all of QPRs pressure, making our opponents really work to threaten us! Control in mid field, and speed up front, gave us several opportunities to score, with some narrow misses, even hitting the wood work at one point.
It wasn't easy though... by any means.
No subs left us tired, and QPR took advantage of this. But only just.
They eventually scored 5 (although QPR filed a result of 3-1. Presumably what they thought would have been a more realistic result..). 2 from set pieces with great volleys.. difficult to keep out in anyones book, and one from a devastating run from their strongest player, with a deadly left foot.
We talked after the game about what to do next, and hopefully you all understand what we need to work on these coming months, but what we have to take from this game is that we are a great squad, and can comfortably take on anyone in our league. Your hard work in training is clearly paying off, and Christelle and I would like to thank each and every one of you for your on going commitment this season.
A few things to think about moving forward...
:Pace - The tougher opponents so far have out done us on pace/speed. Lets work on this.
:1st touch - Quicker passes, to well placed players who are finding space to offer support, will reduce the amount of running we do. Less running = stronger for longer
:Playing back - One of QPR's strengths was calm support at the back when we pushed forward. They were not afraid to pass backwards to quick thinking mid fielders who were dropping to help out. This bought them time to re organise, get back in to their positions and keep possession.
:Up Front - Apply the pressure! Very few goalies are as good as our Kathryn. Pile on the pressure in the box.. Overwhelm them. Follow your shots in for poor keeping or rebounds. Don't be afraid to shoot! (at the 'open' bit of the goal.. not straight at the keeper ;)
I hope you're all looking forward to the weekend. The sleep over at Lola's gran's house is all arranged, then its off to Wembley on the Sunday.
I'd just like to congratulate Sharna on her 100% record so far. 2 games.. 2 goals. Keep it up
Jennifer, our latest squad member who has been at training for the last few weeks, is now fully registered and will make her debut on the 30th. I trust you will all make her very welcome.
T... E... DOUBLE D... I.N.G.T... O. N
