February.....it is still February right?! With the sun beating down and the car heating systems set equally between the blue and the red the ever-keen Rising Stars U11G team headed to Gillingham to face a much admired Anchorian Hearts team.
The team and it’s growing following were feeling a little anxious when it transpired that Ella D was unwell and that we would be without our usual marshal in the final third against a very strong team. Coach Neil acted swiftly to rearrange the team to counter the threat of our opponents and briefed Lizzie on her new, albeit temporary role in defence.
The team were superb throughout and continued applying their learning of “1-2s” but coupled this with the heading drills that they had mastered on Friday evening.
The flowing football was a joy to watch and the pace of our team really took Anchorians by surprise.
Our team converted almost every opportunity in front of goal and three of our players; Ella M, Lexi and Nancy all registered on the scoresheet.
It was clear from the sidelines that the expectations of Coach Neil are growing as the weeks progress. His passionate instructions could be heard across the park and he clearly knows the capabilities, strengths and abilities of his players. His rotation of the squad was tactical and continual giving clear instructions to each player as they were reintroduced to the unfolding drama.
The support from the sidelines was intense. It was clear that the encouragement, to both teams, for the spectacle in front of us, was appreciated by all involved and is testament to the core values that this level of association football stands for.
Our opposition were unanimous in voting Lizzie our player of the match and this was no surprise to any of us! She was tireless, tenacious and good natured throughout! Our own dynamo who really deserved recognition.
Well done to Coach Neil and the team for another superb performance.
Next week we welcome Maidstone Utd to Swalecliffe and hope that we can continue this impressive run of performances.
- Carl
Match Report: U11 Girls v Anchorian Hearts
