Riser Girls U10s turned their focus to the cup this weekend with a home game against Anchorians Halos, albeit with a depleted squad. On a wind-and-rain swept pitch, it was Anchorians who started strong with an early chance at goal within the first minute. Risers struggled to get into the game under a spell of sustained pressure until a well-cleared ball by Amy found Eloise running into the box to beat the keeper and slot into an open net to make it 1-0, against the run of play. Anchorians responded immediately, making it 1-1 by the break.

Supporters anticipated a tough second half, which proved to be the case as Anchorians capitalised on their sustained pressure, scoring 4 goals without reply. The 5-1 scoreline didn't tell the story of the cup match though, as Risers to a girl played some nice football, with Lilian on the right and Bea on the left making some great runs and delivering good through-balls. Natasha was strong in the tackle and Amy had good spells in goal, with long kicks down the field.

In their toughest game of the season so far, Risers showed a lot of character and never looked defeated until the final whistle. Well done girls.

- Rick Farrell, Team Coordinator