Vs North Shields

The Phoenix won with the only goal of the game, two minutes from time. Whilst the team dominated both territory and possession, it was a game the team struggled to attain any real rhythm. The game started in the vain as it would continue with Phoenix on the attack. However, in the main this saw the team attacking largely through the central attacking channel. The lack of width, or any penetrating runs without the ball into the wide areas, meant North Shields were largely able to nullify our attacks. Point of Note: there were several times a midfielder was driving through the middle and the attackers’ run was also a straight run. In these situations, the attacker needs to make an arched run wide so that they are in a position where they can a) see their team mate running forward, b) they are facing the goal and c) makes it more difficult for the opposition to stop both players.

The second half continued in a similar vein, noticeably we had two situations where we had 2 v2 situations. The player with the ball did great in attracting both defenders to the ball, but then decided to continue towards goal when the best option was to pass to their team-mate who now was unmarked. Little things to work on in training.

Whilst we were unable to develop any momentum, we were rarely tested at the back. Ruby M, as in the previous week, was rarely called into action. On the rare occasion North Shields threatened, Alice invariably stuffed out any danger.

Credit to the girls’ in that they kept persevering throughout the second half and their work rate and commitment was great. Their reward would come two minutes from time when a penalty was given for hand ball. Whilst Jess’ initial spot kick was saved, she dispatched the rebound to give the girls a victory their endeavour deserved.
Player of the Match: Lucy marked her debut with the award, well done. She has slotted into the squad great and really bonding with squad.