Coventry City Girls 1 - 1 Harborough Town
League 27/4/08

At home for the last time this season, against Harborough Town. A lovely warm spring like day, ideal for the beautiful game. Nice and early up to Floyds but not as early as Harborough who must have left at 6am.

Second place already secured for our girls which meant only pride to play for us but looking at Harborough they were certainly keen and it was obvious they had come to win. With this in mind the girls were made aware of what was expected of them, and we did not want an end of season who gives a monkeys attitude. They may look like monkeys and may play like monkeys on occasion but that’s another thing.

Anyway game on and off we go attacking the er Tanyard farm end. From early on it was obvious this was going to a tough contest they were clearly up for the game and it was a little feisty, good hard fair challenges going in lovely. We were the better side and pressing the most. Stuts, Lou and Woody all having good attempts only for the goalie to beat away. Some great corners coming in from Westy with Linz going close.

They were having a go back and also had a couple of chances but our defence today was a lot better. Lucy (get out of the area) King, Paige, Laura, Linz and Mchardnut were not afraid to put their foot in, with Lauren particularly enjoying the physical side of the game.

Captain Emily, Westy, AT and Woody were working well in the middle with Stuts and Loops leading the line well, we were doing okay but it was a hard game with both teams playing well. We finished the half the stronger side and perhaps should have been in front. 0-0 half time. Second started in similar vain but Harborough had upped it a bit and were more of a threat, although to be fair Lucy was never troubled. Today was the return of the mighty Zo from her illness and she was quick to impress with strong running and good ball play, Ash and Jade also came on and we were trying to force the issue. Harborough went ahead with about 15mins to go when a girl shot home from the edge of the area with Lucy well beaten, a blow it was as I did not want to lose the game. To our girl's credit up went the sleeves and back we went into it. strong running from midfield and we were back on top, plenty of goalmouth scrambles but it would not drop for us, but from another attack we got our deserved equaliser, the ball being crossed in and Stuts turned and fired in a shot which the keeper parried into the path of the mighty Zo who made no mistake. 1-1. now back on top we decided to go for the win taking defenders off and pushing forwards on, constant sky blue pressure but we could not force the winner.

Although we had most of the play and most of the chances you would have to say that a draw was just about a fair reflection on the day. Harborough played really well (their best display against us) and it was a tough old battle played a lot in the middle third of the pitch, plenty of tough but fair challenges from the girls but one from Paige was slightly mistimed but no malice was intended, lets remember it’s a contact sport and you should play hard but fair. We do try to this. I game we wanted to win but also a game we did not want to lose. So in that respect I was satisfied. Every girl from both sides gave it their all and I was particularly pleased that we never dropped our heads when we went a goal down.

Well done to Harborough, hope you all enjoy your summer break (that’s if we get a summer)

Thanks to our girls for all of your efforts today, defensively I thought you gave a very good display. One last push next week, let's just enjoy it.

Thanks again to all of our parents and trout's for their support and help once again.

PLAY UP SKY BLUES.

TS Sports 3 - 1 Coventry City Girls
League 20/4/08

We travelled up to Burton on Trent for our last encounter with the league winners TS Sports. Second spot still up for grabs for us so it's game on. Both teams seemed pretty revved up and a good game looked likely. A cagey start to the game with TS out of the blocks quick, they scored there first after about 10 mins when they scored a good headed goal from a corner, perhaps we should of got a better challenge in?

From the restart we had a go back and started to push TS back and making a game of it we started to take control of the game and were playing quite well. We got a deserved equaliser after 25 mins when after some pressure Lou despatched a shot into the net via a very slight deflection from a TS defender. We finished the half at 1-1 but slightly on top in an evenly poised good game of football.

The girls were told at half time that the team that makes the most mistakes would be the team that loses. Wise words as that is actually what happened. Not sure if I made the right choice of words in my half time team talk but Ronan at TS certainly did. They came out for the second half a lot stronger and took hold of the game Forcing the pace of the game and pinning us back. We did still get forward on occasions and could have scored again but Stuts, just put her shot wide. But credit where its due TS were now on top and putting us under pressure. They got the all important second goal midway through the half when we defended poorly from our own goalkick the TS girl totally unmarked with the ball falling to her straight feet where she advanced a couple of yards before finishing well in the bottom corner. Old volcano head syndrome then surfaced and I made the mistake of rollicking the two girls on the pitch who I felt were responsible for giving a silly goal away. I have since apologised and make my apology again, it was wrong of me to do say what I said on the pitch in front of everybody else. Anyway moving on we again managed to shoot ourselves in the foot by again giving away needless possession from our own throw midway in our own half, somebody tried to head the ball on from a throw but the ball was only at waist height!!, it beggared belief. Result we lose silly possession, a couple of passes and bang its 3-1 and game over. How maddening can this game be!!!. Calm tablets by the shed load were needed.

That was really that, final whistle and a deserved win for TS they produced a good second half display And did most of the forcing. Well done to them they are a good side and we have a lot of respect for them but we are not that far behind and I like to think that they know we can give them a game, but the result sheet does not lie and they are worthy champions who we wish well in their quest for a possible double. Good luck TS!

No complaints on effort and workrate, and we did play quite well especially in the first half. Perhaps I said the wrong things at half time? Well done girls we gave them a good game and you tried your best, no complaints from me………………………..

Thanks to all of our parents for their great support

Coventry City Girls 3 -2 Harborough Town
League 13/4/08

At home today with our Harborough town our visitors. A lot rested on today's game as Harborough needed to win to have a chance of finishing runners up, we to needed the points to keep us ahead of the chasing pack. An intriguing game unfolded with both sides battling to gain the upper hand. The game was pretty even with both sides cancelling each other out, we started to gain the upper hand and were looking to pass the ball through the middle of the park releasing the wide players and strikers, we were getting forward well and started to break through Stuts, Woody and Lou all had efforts saved or charged down and we were just about on top. We took the lead midway through the half with the strike of the season from……………Paige yes Paige. She collected the ball from midfield pushed up and launched it into the box with a cross cum shot which luckily for us caught a slight deflection and rolled in past the unfortunate keeper, they all count as they say and its 1-0 to the City! That’s my girl!!. settle down and push on I thought we did and were looking stronger but Harborough were also playing there part and were pushing forward with there girls not afraid to run at people and take them on. This proved to be a downfall about 8 mins later when from a Harborough free kick we dropped far to deep, were slow to get out and left there striker all alone to push into the box unmarked to easily finish past Lucy. Another very poor goal to concede with us falling asleep…………not a happy bunny. Anyway after a rant its away we go again. Lauren went on for Laura and settled into the game well. Forward we push looking to get our noses in front again. We got the all important second goal through a more common source when Stuts was released via a defence splitting pass from Paige yes Paige where does she get it from? Still lots to do from Stuts but she powered into the box and rifled the ball into the back of the net a fantastic finish. This seemed to settle us down a bit and we started to pass the ball better and the movement was good, Woody, Westy, AT, and Jade in the middle of the park were working well carrying and passing the ball well with great support play from the excellent Loops and Stuts. At the back, Ash, Lauren Mchardnut, Paige and Linz were more organised with Lucy also waking up things were better. Halt time 2-1. Girls were told well done but we thought that they could do better, it was a close keenly fought game and they were told that we needed to raise the bar to try and secure a win.

The second half was again tight but we started to take control and were pushing Harborough back with good solid play and some very good football the passing and movement was now more evident and we started to put them under the cosh. We hit the woodwork twice a few sizzled wide and the keeper saved a few. Harborough were still threatening on the break and it was obvious that the next goal was very important. We scored midway through the half again from good play with the ball swung out wide to Jade onto Stuts before being sent in to Loops feet, a quick look up hold it a lovely weighted pass putting sniffer Woody through on goal who finished Cooley past the keeper, that Wood girl just keeps on popping up from out of nowhere. A really well worked goal. We were on top and we kept pushing forward at every opportunity Laura back on, Mchardnut pushed out to fullback with the super Ash having a well earned breather. Still we pushed and still Harborough had a go back Trying to force their way back into it, our football was getting better and we had great efforts on goal from Westy, AT with even Lindsay getting in on the act. Emily came on for the unlucky Jade and immediately had an impact taking on players and making a real nuisance of herself, she delivered one ball into the box which was brilliant, Woody just failing to get onto the end of it. Harborough were not giving up and got a second goal right at the death when they scored direct from a corner, the ball somehow creeping between Paige and Lucy at the near post, it was another scandalous goal to give away. The whistle went straight from kick off and it was job done, a good 3 points and a deserved 3 points. It was another tough game Harborough are a good side and are not afraid to run at you and put you under pressure they kept going and going and made us work for everything, but in the second half the girls raised the bar as asked and played better, passing it better and creating chances.

This win was important to us and it was all about teamwork that got us the 3 points, well done girls another good display and you worked your socks off again be proud of your efforts……. I am.

Well done to Harborough in a well fought game played in the right sprit, see you in a fortnight.

Many thanks to our parents once again for their fantastic support, and thank you to all for their help with the nets, corner flags, running the line, and taxi pick ups! A great bunch of people.

Hinckley United 0 - 2 Coventry City Girls
League 30/3/08

A happy day today, we played an impressive Hinckley side and came away with a very good win. We started off with a 4-3-3 due to the narrowness of the pitch with the following side. Lucy, Paige, Ash, Linz, Laura – Jade. AT, Westy – Woody, Lou , Stuts. Subs were Emily and Deanna.

A strong opening from Hinckley resulted in them being on top with ourselves struggling a bit with the new formation. The game swung both ways but you would have to say that Hinckley were on top, they had the majority of possession and created a couple of good chances but Lucy was top drawer today and saved us on a couple of occasions this coupled with a couple of last ditch tackles kept us in it, this is not to say that we did not create our own chances as Stuts, Woody and Lou all had good efforts on goal with the Hinckley keeper saving well, Westy and AT also had good efforts either go wide or charged down. Ash filling in at fullback was acquitting herself well and Paige, Linz and Laura also doing their bit. The workrate of the team was very good and we were holding our own, but still struggling a bit with the 4-3-3. Deanna was introduced for Laura 5mins before half time with AT switching to centre half; we saw the half out at 0-0.

A tactical switch to a 4-4-2 in the second half leaving Lou and Stuts up front with Jade and Woody taking the wide midfield rolls. We started the second half well and were starting to dominate the game, the balance of the team was much better with Jade and Woody in particular looking more at home. The centre mid of Deanna and Westy were now in control and with AT solid at the back we started to press, chances were being created now we were passing the ball a lot better. It only seemed a matter of time before we got the all important first goal, but credit to the Hinckley keeper she was equal to everything, this coupled again with some great blocks from the Hinckley defence kept it at 0-0. Hinckley were having sporadic attacks and were not afraid to carry the ball on put us under pressure but Lucy’s handling was again excellent and we were defending well when we had to. The vital first goal came midway through the half, Stuts being put through again but this time making it count finishing well in the corner of the net whilst under pressure. We were really on top now and what pleased me most was that we kept pushing looking for a second and were looking to kill it off and did not go to deep. Emily came on for Woody and settled in to a right mid role well. Shots were raining in now and with constant pressure surely the second would come. Come it did again from Stuts, who prodded home after a goalmouth scramble from a corner, the ball trickling in at the far post about 8 mins to go now and a clean sheet was the order of the day. Laura came back on for AT, we really could have had another goal Lou with a great effort unluckily going wide, we had a header cleared of the line it was good stuff!! Hinckley to their credit kept going and one good effort flew across our six yard box and luckily for us went wide. The whistle went and the three hard earned points were ours.

This was a tough game and the girls came out of it with great credit, for me this was Hinckley’s best performance against us and if they had got the first goal then who knows how it would have ended up they did play some good football and were sporting at the end full credit to them.

But today was our day on another it may not have been, a great second half performance from every single girl swung it our way. A happy Sunday it turned out to be.

We had fantastic support today from a big group of travelling parents, they done their girls proud and their girls done them proud – a massive thanks to all.

Coventry City Girls 3 - 1 Asfordby Amateurs
League 16/3/08

At home again today with Asfordby our visitors. A cold wet and windy morning meant a little TLC was needed in the goalmouths after all of the overnight rain had left big puddles there. With the help of a certain Mr Fletcher (not Norman Stanley), some of the parents and a bag of sand goalmouths cleared and away we go. Keen for the 3 points the game kicked with us facing the strong wind.

Not off to a good start today with hot potato syndrome affecting most of our team. We were all to rushed and rather than take a touch and pass it we resorted to 'if the ball comes to me I am going to kick it!' the game was not the best but conditions were playing there part. We did have a couple of chances and plenty of possession and but so did Asfordby and it was a tight old affair. We went 1-0 down about 25 mins in when after given away needless possession we committed a foul about 20 – 25 yards from goal. The ball was begging to be hit as the wind was blowing, hit it Asfordby did and in it sailed. A well taken goal. The rest of the half carried on being scrappy the only bit of quality was Captain Colossal corners which were bang on. Half time 1-0.

Words exchanged at half time, simple really we wanted the 3 points and we needed to pass the ball to feet and pass it a lot better than we had done. Quite simply we had to do better. We got the desired effect earlier than I thought we would with only a couple of minutes gone we were level. Move down the left ball into the box there was Woody to finish after some hesitancy in the Asfordby defence. With the wind now in our favour I was confident of the win. We were still panicky on the ball and I was urging the girls to slow it down and play football we did this on occasion but not often enough. It was a closely fought game with Asfordby doing there share of attacking and threatening on a couple of occasions. It was a classic next goals the winner game, and it was us who got the second to take the lead. Stuts getting the all important goal finishing well after being put through. A bit of relief then and to round it off Woody got number 3 right at the death to finally kill the game. It was a better second half display with a bit more football played.

As in last weeks game a slightly unfair score, Asfordby gave a good display and on another day perhaps the score would have been different, but to our girls credit we kept going and on possession and chances just about deserved the win (that’s just my opinion, others might beg to differ) it was not our best display of the season and we have played better and lost this season so you take what you can when you can. As I say I have to give the girls credit for their effort, they all worked hard as always. That’s what got us the win. 3 points is 3 points and at the end of the day that’s what I wanted, and what the girls gave me. Well done girls, and thanks for your efforts.

Well done to Asfordby, see you all in May when hopefully it will be a bit warmer (Might even wear shorts).

Many thanks to DF and our Parents for your help with clearing the goalmouths and helping with the nets and your support of the girls again.

Coventry City Girls 2 - 1 Hinckley United
Cup 9/3/08

Passports out, off over to Beduff for our ¼ final cup match.

Todays team – Lucy, Paige, Lauren, Linz, Laura – Woody, Westy, AT, Ash – Jade, Stuts. Subs Emily Lou , Pezza.

Not going to write a massive amount today, we lost to a strong Bedworth Eagles side but came out of the game with our heads held high. We started the game on the back foot but edged our way into it and had chances, we went 1-0 down after about 15 mins when there striker got her head onto a corner ball and the ball trickling over the line after Lucy's attempt to save it. we came back into it straight away with a few efforts on goal and a couple of brave saves from the Bedworth keeper, we were doing okay and were matching Bedworth and in my opinion finished the half the better side, and were unlucky to be 1-0 down.

Second half was a different affair with Bedrock mainly on top and putting us under pressure, we still had a good opportunity to equalise but the keeper made a great save to deny us, if that had gone in it would have been a different game, Bedrock on top but not overly troubling us, they got the second and killer goal from a free kick (that never was) which smashed against the bar and they reacted quicker to force the ball home despite Lucy's brave attempt at saving it, the rest of the girls were playing tiddlywinks somewhere. Game over now to be honest and to rub salt in the wound they wrapped it up with a third a few minutes from time when they broke through and we failed to get a challenge in allowing her to finish.

Three mistakes three soft goals, these things happen, nobody ever means to make mistakes but we still make them, that’s a fact of life, so we just try to learn from them and not make the same mistakes again.

A tough game with tackles going in from both sides, one or two were a bit naughty and the ref should of dealt with these in a better fashion, the ref was poor throughout. All in all a deserved win for Buduff, but not a 3-0 win.

We matched them and my girls give me 100% I can't ask for any more than that. They never stopped working and never stopped trying, a credit to themselves the team, and the club.

Told the girls we were proud of their efforts and the way they kept at it and conducted themselves, a great set of people who on another day could of have had the victory.

Many thanks to all of the parents for their help and support once again, their nearly as nice as their daughters!

Coventry City Girls 2 - 1 Hinckley United
League 2/3/08

Today we entertained Hinckley, at a blustery Henley College.

Today's team – Lucy, Paige, Lindsay, Laura, Lauren – Woody, Westy, AT, Aisling, Loops, Stuts. Subs, Zo, Jade, Emily.

Pleased today, we had a difficult match against a decent Hinckley side. Off to a good start with us putting them under pressure from the first whistle, playing well and creating a couple of good chances that we snatched at but looking the more likely to score. The pressure paid off in the 16 minute when Woody in the right place at the right time once again, steering home from inside the box after a ball into the box from the left hand side from Stuts. It was no more than we deserved as we had been dominant for the most part. The defence of Paige, Linz, Laura and Lauren were proving strong and organised, centre mid (Westy and AT) getting hold of the ball in the middle, Woody and Ash using the flanks well, and Stuts and Lou holding it up and spreading it well up front, up to now a good display from all.

Hinckley were a threat coming forward and were getting good balls into the box but Lucy's handling was spot on and we were managing to get vital challenges in when it mattered, one from Laura was a stormer. We carried on creating chances and got our second just before half time when Stuts broke through into left hand side of the box and put one over the keeper into the roof of the net with a cross cum shot. A touch fortunate I suppose but you take it when you can, and 2-0 was a fair reflection in my opinion.

Second half much the same for 20 mins when we created plenty of chances and the game should have been over, but for some good goalkeeping and unlucky placement, it would have been. Emily, Zo and Jade came on and all acquitted themselves well, more chances more misses but as the game went on Hinckley started to come into it more and were putting us under pressure, they got one back 10 mins from time when we gave away sloppy possession and the girl finished well in the bottom corner leaving Lucy with no chance. Lets go into panic mode was now the order of the day, with Hinckley Pushing hard and us slashing at everything instead of keeping cool heads, they got a free kick with about 3 mins to go about 10 yards from goal after a sliced clearance was deemed as a backpass which Lucy picked up. oh dear here we go I thought, were going to blow this, when really it should have been done and dusted, but we managed to charge down the free kick and cleared, seen the game out from here with Hinckley in charge and threatening an equaliser we were, glad to hear the final whistle when it went.

Overall a good performance with us having a deserved victory but making hard work of it towards the end when it should have already been put to bed. Everybody's work rate was top of the pops and no complaints on that score.

Well played to Hinckley. Credit where credits due they stuck at it and never gave up on anything and played the game as it should be played in a hard but fair manner, passing the ball well and certainly made us work hard for our victory.

Well done to all of our girls, they all played well, showed great work rate and commitment and can be satisfied with a deserved win.

Thanks to all of our parents for their fantastic support and thanks also to everybody for their help with the nets etc.

Coventry City Girls 1 - 2 TS Sports
League 17/2/08
Tough At The Top

It's tough at the top they say. Quite true too. We hosted league leaders and champions elect TS Sports today on a cold but sunny day at Henley. On arrival the pitch looked a bit iffy but plenty of hot air from the parents and its game on.

We wanted a good start to the game, and both sets of girls were up and at it from the start. We started well pressing TS but went a goal down after ten mins when a TS striker was offered too much time and space in the area, and she finished well in the bottom corner. To the girls credit we went back at them and took the game to them. We got through on a few occasions only for the excellent keeper to save or some last ditch defending stopping us from getting an equaliser. Westy, AT, Jade and Woody were linking well in the middle, trying to release Stuts and Zoe up front who also were playing well again working the TS defence.

It was turning into a good game with chances at either end, defensively Lucy, Paige, Linz, Laura and Lauren were coping okay but occasionally still a bit jittery and our ball distribution could have been better, but overall we were giving a decent account of ourselves and did not deserve to be losing. Half time 1 - 0 down.

Second half started the same as the first, us pushing, TS defending well and good on the counter attack, but if anyone was going to score then surely it would be us as we were pressing well. Midway through the half it was still us looking the most likely to score. Some good passing and Stuts was through Still under pressure from the defender she struck her shot well just from just inside the box a goal looked certain but the TS keeper pulled off as good as save as I have seen all season to deny us a deserved equaliser. Straight from this TS broke and went 2-0 up, a through ball to the striker who scored the first goal she strode through a couple of lightweight challenges to finish easily, it was a gift of a goal and a huge blow. It looked game over to honest and it was gutting as we had been arguably the better side and did not deserve to be 1 goal down let alone 2 goals down, but you had to give TS credit as they refused to buckle. Ash entered the fray carrying on the good work from Jade on the left side of the field. The girls again fought back and pushed on and on, we pulled one back with about 15 mins to go when we scored from a football point of view our best goal of the season.

From a throw in midway in TS's half we exchanged passes, ball to feet pass and move through the midfield and Stuts was put in and this time putting it past the keeper 2-1 game on again. Lou and Emily on pushing and probing. We pressed and pressed the rest of the game but could not find the equaliser. We had an equaliser with about 5 to go when Westy scored direct from a free kick but this was unfortunately disallowed due to an offside decision, I thought it was a harsh decision (this old interfering with play thing again) myself and the equaliser was no more than we deserved but you have to accept these decisions and move on (through gritted teeth it must be said)

So there it ended, a 2-1 defeat, but as acknowledged by Ronan (TS manager) we deserved at least a share of the spoils and were possibly unfortunate not to have got more. This was a good game with both sides giving their all. Some good football from both sides and no quarter given from either, just as it should be. We had a good old go at TS and they responded to it, they defended very well and the keeper was first class. Good luck to them for the rest of the season.

The last time we played TS the walloped us 11-0, we wanted to give a better account of ourselves this time and we done that, the girls gave it everything they had. Their workrate, commitment, attitude and football were of the highest order and I was proud of them all, WELL DONE GIRLS !! Some very good displays from the girls, but Westy was colossal and deserves a mention.

Well played to both sides you more than played your part in an absorbing contest.

Many thanks once again for great support from the sidelines and for helping with nets etc.

Coventry City Girls 3 - 2 Loughborough Foxes
Cup 10/2/08
It’s a beautiful day

At home today in our rearranged cup fixture with Loughborough Foxes after last week's postponement. A beautiful sunny late winter's day, perfect the beautiful game.

Today's team 4-4-2. Lucy, Paige, Lauren, Lindsay, Laura – Woody, Westy, AT, Jade – Stuts, Zoe. Subs Emily, Louise and Ash.

I mentioned in my last report (after a dismal display) that I would back my girls to bounce back. Well they did with a much improved display. We are usually slow starters so we told the girls we needed to get out of the blocks a lot quicker today and take the game to Loughborough. We kicked off with our backs to the sun and took hold of the game early on pushing our opponents back, the girls were a lot sharper today and we were passing it a lot better. The centre midfielders were using the ball a lot better today bringing the wide midfielders and the strikers in to play a lot better. We were defending well with our emergency left back (Lauren) adapting fantastically well considering she had never played there before. We took the lead midway through the half when stuts was put through she held her nerve under pressure and took the ball into the box and finished well in the bottom corner. Tails up push on, we carried on from where we left off pushing on and creating chances trying to play the game in Loughborough's half. We went two up after about 25 mins when after more pressure and great wing play by Jade and stuts resulted in stuts getting the ball into the mixer and Woody steering the ball in under pressure. Girls ecstatic me trying to calm them down!. Loughborough came back more into the game and for whatever reason we reverted to panic mode at the back, we lost a bit of shape and they were unlucky not to pull one back but more through us trying to commit suicide! Half Time 2-0.

We wanted to approach the second half as we did the first, girls told to keep calm and not take any chances at the back, ………..Loughborough pulled one back after 5 mins!!. Two chances to tidy up and clear the ball tried to be clever got caught 2-1, not a happy bunny (boy did my girl get a good hiding when I got her home) We do like to gift our opponents a goal or two most games.

The tie then turned a bit with Loughborough putting us under pressure although not overly troubling Lucy in goal. Although under pressure we were still getting forward and creating chances with the mighty Zo and Stuts Causing problems all of the time. Woody and Jade getting forward well and also making chances, with AT and Westy holding the middle of the park pressing and covering well. At the back although a bit jittery under pressure for a while Paige, Linz, Laura and Lauren regained there composure and we started to take control again going into the last quarter of the game. Stuts was unlucky with a shot that the first class keeper done well to keep out, Zo had chances charged down, AT had a couple of great efforts that flew just over and Woody was unlucky to hit the post from an acute angle. The third and killer goal came when jade forced home after a goalmouth scramble with about 5 mins to go. Lou and Emily entered the fray and helped us see the game out although Loughborough did pull one back from the very last kick of the game (a penalty that never was) they scored from the spot and the ref blew for full time without restarting the game an unusual decision?

All in all a satisfying display. It got a bit hairy scary at times with Loughborough coming back into it well in the second half and making a real game of it, they battled very well and if they had got an equaliser who knows which way it had gone? But overall I thought that we deserved the victory, we created more and had the better chances. The girls worked hard for the victory today, the midfield and strikers tracked back and worked their socks off helping out the defence. There were some exceptional performances from a number of players but considering it was her first full appearance and her first time playing at full back Lauren was first class and she deserves a mention, well done mate.

Pleased with the result, pleased with the attitude and the reaction from the girls, the acid test is can we keep up the level of performance that we have produced on a few times this season, only to go back to square one? Time will tell.

Well done to Loughborough they made it tough, worked their socks off and always tried to play football, a good side, we wish them well for the remainder of the season.

Many thanks to all of our parents for their fantastic support again, and for helping with nets, flags and money collection. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Harborough Town 1 - 3 Coventry City Girls
League 27/1/08
Funny old game ...... not

We paid our second visit to Harborough after they kindly let us switch the game after Henley had called off their pitches.

I wish we had not bothered!!

We were well beaten by a side that we had won 3-1 against a fortnight ago. They say it’s a funny old game, not on this occasion I'm afraid. We were static today and at one time I thought that my girls were playing statues, it was a case of pass it (to the opposition) and stand still.

I am not going to make any excuses; we were poor throughout and deserved nothing from the game. It was without doubt the poorest we have played for a very long time, but I can nothing away from Harborough they made us look poor and played very well, they were quicker in body, mind and sprit and the scoreline WAS a fair reflection of the game. They wanted it more than we did and made us look as if we had never played together before, they were better in every department and played us off the park. I was glad the final whistle went when it did.

I was gutted at the final whistle, I was angry but much to mine (and the girls) surprise managed to contain myself from angry walker volcano eruption syndrome, it took some doing, I was frothing at the mouth but took a couple of deep breathes and tried to be as constructive as possible,……… they are only kids after all !!. They were told the truth and sometimes the truth hurts. The girls to their credit took it on the chin and were honest enough to agree with my comments about their performance and performances (or non-performance as it was) we made friends and now we move on.

We put this down to a very poor performance, hopefully a one off. We are better than we were today and you have to back your girls and hope that they bounce back. Time will tell but don’t bet against them bouncing back I have faith in them and will continue backing them till the day they kill me, it won't be long on that performance, ……….but lets remember it’s the taking part that counts!! (What moron wrote that?)

Well played to Harborough a more than deserved victory.

Thanks to all of the parents for their support, and thanks to the parents for helping out with dropping off and picking up. It is very much appreciated.

A special mention to my/our dear mate Cory Williams, who broke her leg on the way home from the Ricoh on Saturday (not chasing Millwall fans) You are a truly wonderful person who we all think the world of. Its people like you who make the world a better place…………..don't be late for training on Wednesday.

Harborough Town 4 - 0 Coventry City Girls
League 27/1/08

Having not played since December 2 we entered into our first game of 2008 hoping for a win to kick start the second half of the season. Our first visit to Harborrough Town where we were given a warm welcome.

Today's team – 4, 4, 2. – Kingy, Paige, Cory, Linz, AT – Woody, Westy, Mighty Zo, Jade – Loops, Stuts Subs – Lauz, Lauren and Emily.

After the recent rain the pitch was obviously heavy but perfectly playable. A bit slow out of the blocks today and it took us 10 mins to get going, the game was evenly poised with both sides cancelling each other out. As the half progressed we started to get on top and were unlucky not to take the lead when Stuts flashed one across the goal missing by inches. Harborough were also pushing but Lucy was not overly troubled. We took the lead with Stuts finishing well after some great build up work, via the midfield with Westy releasing Stuts who kept a calm head to slot home. Things were looking up and we pushed on in search of number 2. Some of the link up play now was much better. Down the right Paige and Woody were excellent with young Vinnie showing magic feet once or twice in taking players on, Lou up front was playing some lovely balls through and from one we should of made it 2-0 but with just the keeper to beat we shot to early putting the ball wide when well placed (the player shall remain nameless!), we were on top now but needed a second to give us a bit of breathing space, a goal did come but in our goal!!, a goal kick was charged down, and a shot put in that Lucy saved well, but the ball rolled across the face of goal where a Harborough player forced home virtually on the line despite the attentions of Paige. Half time 1-1.

Went out for the second half with the strongish breeze behind us, girls told game in their hands and to keep pushing on. Started off well pushing Harborough back, some decent football played with all our units linking well (just a bit of hot potato occasionally) Lauren (her debut) had gone on for the unlucky Lou with Zo going up front and the excellent Jade going into the middle of the park. Still on top and pushing for the win but Harborough looking dangerous as well. Changes made midway through the half with Emily replacing Lauren and Laura going on for Westy, with AT pushing into centre mid to protect the back four a bit more. Eventually the second came, Cory took a free kick which was cleared out from the edge of the area, back in it went and Zoe was on hand to finish well in the bottom corner. This gave us a lift and we kept pushing on, at the back Lucy, Paige, Laura, Linz, and super Cory Williams were doing fantastically well under pressure. Emily was making a right nuisance of herself at left mid, Jade and AT were holding the middle together, Woody and Zo linking superbly well on the right, with the ever dangerous Stuts always a threat. Again we had chances to finish the game, hitting the bar and putting a few wide, but a good Harborough side were not finished and were dangerous on the break, putting a couple into the box and having a go back at us. They have some good girls playing and are a threat going forward putting us under some pressure and making me rather nervous.

We made two more changes Lou back on for Woody, and Westy replacing Jade, both had done very well. Switched to a 4-3-3 after consultation with the Leicester Muppet as we needed the third to kill it off and Stuts delivered with her second goal of the game, Westy carrying the ball and releasing her, Stuts again finishing well. A bit of relief, that gave us a bit of breathing space, Lauren went back on for Stuts and we saw the game out from there.

All in all a good win in what was a good game, with both sides more than playing their part. Harborough are a good side who work very hard so it was a hard earned 3 points. Well done to our girls whose workrate was first class and in my view deserved the three points over the course of the game. A decent team performance with good individual performances all over the pitch.

Well done girls!!

Thanks to all of the parents for their excellent support once again.

Coventry City Girls 2 - 2 Hinckley United
League 2/12/07

Today was our first encounter at our new home pitch of Floyds Fields. A wet and windy start for ourselves and our visitors from Hinckley. The pitch was just about playable with surface water only in the centre circle, duly dispatched by Leigh the fork.

Went with the usual 4-4-2, Lucy, Paige, Linz, AT, n Cory – Woody, Westy (C) Jade, n Ash. – Stuts n Lou. Subs – Amy 'Pezza' Perrett n the road runner Aston.

The game started off with us on top only for Hinckley to come back into it. Ash was proving very effective down on the left side of midfield with barnstorming runs and setting up Stuts who was again employed up front and firing at the goal only for the keeper to produce some great saves. Hinckley also threatened when they burst through only for Lucy to produce the save of her life diving to her right and pushing the ball out for a corner, it really was top a draw save. Hinckley took the lead about 20mins into the game when a player was offered a little too much space and she produced a very good finish from the edge of the box. 1-0 down when arguably we had been on top, in a decent game. Started off again having a go with the midfield releasing the strikers and wide midfielders and we were creating chances but flashing them wide or the excellent Hinckley keeper saving………..until the impressive Westy released Stuts who strode through to shoot only for the keeper to save, but the ball rolled kindly for Woody who was spot on in the right place to finish. 1-1 and rightly so. The Rest of the half belonged to us but we went off for half time all square.

Second half began similar to the first really, fairly even but as the game wore on we began to start controlling it and were putting Hinckley under pressure, but they were still dangerous on occasions and the game was evenly poised. We took the lead midway through the half when a back pass was picked up by the keeper only about 7 yards from goal, we scored from the first effort but the ref cancelled it for interference from a Hinckley player. Usually that means you miss the second one, but not this time Pezza layed off for Westy who shot low and in it went. 2-1 up and deservedly so. We should of gone on to finish the game really but we gave away a very soft equaliser when from a Hinckley corner the ball was not cleared and the same player who scored the good first goal equalised from barely 3 yards the ball trickling over the line. We should have done better and reacted quicker it was disappointing to concede a goal in such a poor fashion.

This was a blow but credit to the girls they bounced back and we dominated the rest of the game. We made chances and on another day could have had 5 or 6 but some days they go in others they don’t. The Hinckley keeper was first class, with the woodwork also costing us the victory I thought we deserved.

All in all a decent display with really only ourselves to blame for not gaining a victory, and that’s not pointing the finger at anyone, as I tell the girls, we win, lose and draw as a team and it is a collective effort whatever the score may end up at.

A game that got away from us, but the girls give it a great shot and the work ethic was very good. We slowed it down well at times but not others and we still need to get it under and slow it down better at times but overall we played well and I could have few complaints (just one or two so it keeps them on their toes)

Well done girls – you deserved more and I am proud of you all.

A big thanks to all of the parents for their support, it was first class. A special thanks to the parents for helping put the nets up, carrying bags etc, it was a stinking morning again and your help is really appreciated thank you.

Bardon Hill Ladies 1 - 3 Coventry City Girls
League 25/11/07

Off to our good friends at Bardon for our second visit there this season. After last weeks artic blast today was more like summer much to the girl's relief.

4-4-2 today's side. Kingy, Smurf, Cors, Clarkey, Lauz – Vinnie, Westy, Jade Mc, Ash – Loops, Stuts. Subs Mighty Zo and Em'z.

I wanted a performance today as we have not been at the races for the last couple of weeks. On a heavy pitch we started up the incline but from the off we looked more in control of the game. We played a lot more calmly than previous weeks. Some decent football played with Westy and Jade doing well in the middle of the park. Vinnie was again linking up well with Paige on the right hand side with Ash and Cory doing like wise on the left. Clarkey and Laura (her first full appearance this season) seemed to pick up where they left off from last season and complimented each other with Linz dropping off and Lauz hassling away at anything that moved. Upfront Stuts and Loops were working the channels well and linking up with the middle nicely. We looked on top and were threatening but really Bardon should have taken the lead when we got drawn across to easily and a Bardon midfielder was put clean through but our Lucy (see mate did not forget you) came to the rescue with a brave save after coming off her line and blocking the chance enabling us to clear.

Some vocal "encouragement" then being spouted by the idiot with the shorts on. A wake up call I hoped, and yes we made Bardon suffer when midway through the half after some good link up play via the midfield and strikers Stuts was put through her first effort being well saved by the keeper but credit to her she followed up to finish well under pressure. Hoped we would push on from this and we really began to dominate the rest of the half Zo had come on for Loops and were on top and went in 1-0 up at the break.

Expected Bardon to come back at us in the second half, but simple instructions we were to up our game again and push on and finish it off. Still the better side but Bardon were livelier and got an equaliser when we lost concentration and the very good Bardon striker finished well when again under pressure. Game on – which way would it go? Thankfully ours. We seemed to rally and really picked up our game Stuts and Zo were playing well upfront and we were getting good delivery from the flanks Vinnie in particular was playing calmly and skilfully and the link up with Paige was excellent. We were creating chances now and Stuts done the business again shooting wide of the keeper after again being put through. The excellent Jade and Ash came off to be replaced by Lou and Emily (the road runner) Aston, nothing changed and we kept pushing, Bardon were also having a go and the defence were really being kept on there toes. But all of the chances were really at their end and we had shots blocked we dragged a couple wide and hit the post come crossbar. We eventually got the killer third when Stuts got her hat-trick finishing well again after some super passing from Westy and Zo put her through again. We could and perhaps should have had another couple, but lets not be greedy eh?

Stuts was subbed and got a deserved round of applause but this victory was more of a team effort where a number of players put in much improved performances, and everybody should be pleased with the way that they played. We finished at 3-1 and everybody played their part, it was a good performance and a good game to watch with Bardon more than playing their part.

When we slow it down a bit and think about what we are doing we can play well, when we don’t and we rush we don’t look half the side we can be. Let's hope that this time we take that on board and get rid of the hot potato! Well done girls you deserved your victory – you all played a part in it.

A special mention to Bardon.
They approach the game as it should be approached and are a credit to themselves, they are fair and sporting and play good football, well done to all.

A great club whose hospitality is second to nine. Drinks provided for the girls and parents before the game and at half time, drinks and sandwiches provided after the game in their clubhouse. A fantastic gesture which we are very appreciative off.

Thank you very much Glenn and all at Bardon, we wish you every success for the rest of the season.

Coventry City Girls 0 - 11 TS Sports
League 18/11/07

On a cold/wet windy and totally horrendous day we welcomed TS Sports.

TS are top of the table and unbeaten this season so a big old challenge. Not too much to write this week except a big thank you to our girls. The conditions today were amongst the worst I have experienced in all of my 29 years of age, and credit to the girls for keeping going.

If I am honest we were outplayed for good parts of the game by a good side, the conditions did not help but they were the same for both sides, but it's always easier to cope when you're on top and winning. We gave away some very soft goals today and it ended up a bit of a hiding which I never expected.

The TS girls coped a lot better with the conditions, they played better than us and deserved to win simple as that. Could we have done better yes, should we of done better yes, will we do better I hope so.

Our girls were beaten by the better side today, but I was more concerned about their welfare today rather than the result.

They never let me down and kept on going; they were absolutely soaked to the skin and were frozen to the bones. We had fingers, toes and hands dropping off, legs that were so bright and red, but I never seen any dropped heads. What could I say to them other than well done and thanks for their efforts.

We now have to put this behind us and move on. Hopefully we will give a better account of ourselves next time and hopefully the weather will be kinder.

Thanks girls for sticking with it when it would have been easier to just pack it in. I am proud of you all for keeping it going and doing your best. It was not nice out there but at least you showed some heart.

Thanks to all of our parents for supporting the girls and braving the conditions. Thanks for helping with the nets etc it's easy to hide when it's freezing/wet and windy. Has anybody seen the old trout?

Coventry City Girls 1 - 1 Bardon Hill Ladies
League 11/11/07

At home to our good friends from Bardon in what have proved to be tough games so far this season.

Team (4-4-2) Lucy - Paige, Cory, Linz, A.T – Woody, Jade, Westy, Stuts – Zo, Ash – Subs, Loops, Laura, Emily.

Not a huge amount to say today. In a nutshell, we started poorly, and ended poorly. That’s not to say that the effort was not there as it was, but as a team performance it was by far the worst we have produced all season and for quite some time. There was not the urgency that I like to see, and we did not play at the tempo that we should of. We played at a much higher tempo last week and performed better and lost. So in that respect perhaps it was good that we did not get beat.

The first half was a bit of a non event really, with both defences on top and little play really from either side, it ended up at 0-0 with both sides cancelling each other out. A few words to say at half time and looking for the desired effect from the girls. Although the second half was better and we did raise it a bit the football was still not anywhere near what we are capable of and the game was not a great spectacle. Chances were few and far between from either side and it looked as if one goal would win it. we scored midway through the half when Zoe bundled the ball over from a great Westy corner, I hoped that this would raise our game and that we would go on to win, but unfortunately it was not to be, Bardon got a equaliser ten minutes later when we went a bit awol on the counter and they scored with an attack down the left side which resulted in there striker having acres of space to finish from well inside the area.

The game finished with us having lots of possession and me trying to play for a win playing every girl and her dog up front and trying to force the winner, but Bardon also had a couple of chances on the counter and the game finished in a deserved draw, with honours even.

I was disappointed with the performance today, when only occasionally did we put our foot on the ball and slow it down. Hot potato syndrome was evident everywhere, from everyone. The only positive thing from our point of view was that we played poorly and came out of the game with a point.

We have to put it down as a bad day at the office and move on I suppose, that’s football for you. As I say the attitude of the girls was fine and the work rate fine also (maybe can do better in some areas) but our ball retention, speed of thought and our hold up and support play must be better.

We are capable of so much better and need to be more consistent, we are consistent but consistent at being inconsistent!

Many thanks to all our parents for their support, and to those that help in putting up taking down nets etc.

Apologies' to the wife and daughter for being impossible to live with on Sunday afternoon. I never even made it for a pint!

It's only a game remember…………….

Asfordby Amateurs 1 - 0 Coventry City Girls
League 4/11/07
ALAMO AT ASFORDBY

Off over to deepest darkest Woolyback land for a game against Asfordby. We played them earlier in the season and won convincingly. This of course counted for nothing and the girls were made aware of this. We started with a 4-4-2, Lucy, Jade, Cory, Linz, AT – Vinnie, Westy(C), Loops, Stuts – Ash – Mighty Zo. Sub Emily.

First half was far to kick and rush from some of the side and it was a bit like hot potato syndrome disease had got hold of us again. We were too rushed, but in saying that we were still just about on top in a keenly fought battle.

We had chances to take the lead but unfortunately the Asfordby keeper was having an inspired day. Zo and Ash were working their socks off up front being well supported by the midfield especially the wide midfielders, Vinnie Wood and Stuts. Chances were coming and going. Asfordby were doing well and making a real game of it but defensively we were doing fine if not a little panicky. Lucy was doing well, Jade had slot into Right back well in the absence of Paige and Laura, with Linz and AT trying to guide her, Cory was doing well at left back. Asfordby scored direct from a corner mid-way through the first half, which was a bit harsh on the girls. We picked it up again and kept pushing but it was proving to be one of those days when it does not just drop for you. Half time 1-0 down.

Half time team talk basically consisted of doing ok, can do better, and let's show more composure right through the team. We started the second half well and were virtually camped in the Asfordby half, Westy and Lou were more into the game Emily had came on and was doing well out wide. We were well on top and I was confident that we would score. We were pushing hard for the equaliser and it was all us but their goal was leading a charmed life, Asfordby were restricted to sporadic breaks on the counter but they were dealt well with at the back. We were surely going to get at least an equaliser with all the possession and attacks we were having, we were more composed and looked like more of a football side but due to some good defending, the ball not dropping for us and some good goalkeeping it was not happening. Every time we had a corner or a shot the ball always seemed to end up at an Asfordy players feet who cleared it. We went 4-3-3, 3-3-4, 1-2-7, 0-0-10 but I kind of knew with 10 mins still to go that it was not going to happen, it was just one of those days. We were very unlucky to lose the game and on chances alone should of won, but at the end of the day we didn’t put it in the net they did, and goals win matches not chances and possession, bit like the City v West ham if you know what I mean. Well done to Asfordby they worked hard were much improved and had a bit of luck that’s football for you.

Although disappointed with the result I could not really of asked for anymore from the girls in terms of attitude, work-rate and commitment they did me proud in that respect. We did improve a lot in the second half and as I say another day we would of scored a few and won the game, all I ask for is that composure thing to be sorted out and we will be alright.

We had a get together for Paige's birthday on Sunday evening and Mr Chairman/ex Chairman/Mr Chairman Popped in and was amazed that I was still happy and smiling in the face of defeat. Easy I said it's just a game old lad!! The clock doesn't stop ticking and the world doesn't stop spinning if you lose. – but I tell you this it hurts if we lose next week, the tea cups / water bottles better take cover…….ha ha.

Thanks to all of the girls for their efforts and the parents for their support – top stuff. Thanks to the Missus as well for the cheese puffs.

Coventry City Girls 1 - 1 Bardon Hill Ladies
League 14/10/07

At home for a change to Bardon Hill who we narrowly beat in a fixture about 5 weeks ago.

Team – Lucy, Paige, Linz, AT, Cory – Woody, Westy (C) Jade, Alice - Ash, Zoe – Subs Lou, Laura, Emily.

A tough game was expected again after our encounter in Coalville a few weeks ago. The girls were asked again to show more composure and to not panic and get rid of the ball to early. We started off well and were the dominant team, Bardon did threaten on a few occasions but we wee coping well and were on top. Some good football today with good link up play between the defence, midfield, and attack. We should really off been 2-3 goals up before we scored in the 18 min, when Ash managed to toe poke a loose ball home, the ball deflecting off the last defender before nestling into bottom of the net. We were on top of Bardon and had the lions share of possession and chances but a few went begging and Bardon got an equaliser 10 minutes later when a ball was played into the box when it should have been cleared and they scored with a good finish from the player, a bit disappointed with the goal as a couple of us went to sleep, but these things we learn from. Half time 1-1.

The second half began with instructions to keep it going as it was and to keep forcing the play. If anything we were more dominate in the second half and were on top almost throughout, Bardon have a couple of decent pacy strikers who keep you on your toes but our defence was suburb and were covering each other well, much better support from the midfield this week as well so I could only see one winner. We pressed for the entire second half and again had chances but still failed to finish, but you have to give Bardon credit they fought for everything and were not afraid to put there bodies in where it hurts to stop us scoring. So it ended 1-1 and while slightly disappointed we did not get the 3 points it was a much improved team performance.

Improved individual performances from all of the girls this week as well, particularly midfield and upfront, if we can keep this going and hopefully take some of these missed chances then we should do well. The work ethic of the girls was excellent and over the course of the whole game I was unusually happy! All I ask is that people give their all and try to get the win……. the winning bit is a bonus, they did that today and I could have no complaints.

This was a good game of football with two committed teams, Bardon more than played there part and are far better than there league position suggests. They approach and play the game as it should be and we wish them all the best and look forward to seeing them again.

Well played girls – thank you for your efforts.

Many thanks once again to all of our parents for their help and support in getting nets up/down etc, also for having large mouths.

Hinckley United 2 - 1 Coventry City Girls
League 7/10/07

Off on the road again this time to Hinckley who had started the season well. AT had to pull out of the game just before we started with a pulled muscle, so we quickly re-organised with this line up:

Lucy, Paige, Cory, Linz, Laura – Woody, Westy (C), Jade, Alice S – Louise, Zoe - Subs; Emily and Ash.

A team good enough to win, we went a goal down midway through the first half after in my opinion being the better side. We were playing okay but still lacking that composure needed, it was all a bit rushed on a pitch that was a bit tight.

Second half, I told the girls that we needed to slow the game down a bit and think before we passed as too many passes were going astray when we could of carried the ball, we just needed to up the quality a bit. Again we were the better side but still too rushed and it turned into a bit of a scrap with little or no time on the ball and with the small/narrow pitch it was proving to be a difficult game.

We got our deserved equaliser with about 15mins to go when Ash (on as sub) scored after being put through by the mighty Zo. This I hoped would push us on for the win but we conceded again with about 5 to go and as much as we huffed and puffed we could not find the equaliser. It finished with a defeat that was unjustified but we are bringing about our own downfall with needless possession being given away. No argument with the work-rate and commitment (most of them) a bit more of a will to win would be nice, but its 3 points dropped I'm afraid in a game when a point was the least we deserved. Fair play to Hinckley they worked hard and made it tough and no doubt will do so again in our return fixtures.

I am still a bit disappointed with the result, with more composure and better ball retention we could off got the 3 points, but it's onwards and upwards and we try again this Sunday.

Thanks to all of the parents for there tremendous support – I am sorry we could not get the win your support deserved.

Bardon Hill 1 - 2 Coventry City Girls
League 16/9/07
Bardon me - that was tough!

Team. Lucy, Paige, Cory, Alice T, Lindsay, Jade, Westy (C), Lou, Alice S, Woody, Zoe – Subs Ash, Laura, Emily.

Off up to Coalville to play a good side in Bardon Hill. First things first Bardon made us very welcome with some great hospitality. They laid on drinks for the girls at half time with an invite into the clubhouse after where hot drinks and biscuits were laid on for us. A tremendous gesture and fully appreciated, thank you very much Bardon.

Anyway onto the match. It was a tough old game with Bardon matching us throughout. The girls were told to expect a hard game and so it proved to be. We started a bit slowly and we were rushing most things and giving away possession too often. Bardon took the lead after about 10 mins capitalising on a bit of hesitancy in our defence and really gifting them a soft goal, the girls were asked to start calming it down a bit and slow play down (I must sound like a broken record) but hey ho they did and we started to assert ourselves a bit better. We got a deserved equaliser after about 20 mins when a smart throw in from Paige releasing the mighty Zo down the right wing who carried the ball in before squaring for Alice S to slide into the net. We were now attacking more and using the channels better. We had a few attempts at goal but the Bardon keeper was excellent and handled everything well. We got our second from captain Westy when after a after a passing sequence she pushed through the middle of the Bardon defence and finished well beating the keeper with the pace of the shot. We were playing better now and the half time roasting team talk had developed into a pat on the back and a well done team talk. Half time Bardon 1- 2 Coventry City.

We told the girls at half time that we thought the game was there's for the taking if they wanted it, but beware if Bardon wanted it more then we did then we would be in trouble. Two things to take into the 2nd half a bit of pride and passion and a bit more composure (is that 3 things?) as this is what was needed to see us home.

Bardon again started the second half probably the better team but we again came back into it and it was pretty even. Lucy, Paige, Linz, Alice T and Cory were playing better as a unit at the back with Alice S, Jade, Lou and Westy supporting well. The strikers Woody and Zoe were now starting to threaten and were working tirelessly up front and the workrate of the team was excellent. I decided to try and freshen things up a bit so Laura came on for Cory, Ash came on for Jade and Emilly for Woody. The 3 who came on did a fabulous job and after Alice S came off with an injury we shuffled again with Woody re-entering this time wide right. We started to push on now and had a few chances Lou lifting one over , Alice S lifting one over after coming back on, Zo flashing one wide and Ash failing to connect properly with a ball in the box, but we could not get the killer third. Bardon too had a couple of efforts and it was a terrific effort from both sides.

The whistle went at 2-1 and we all breathed a sigh of relief. (It was like a hurricane wind on the opposite side as the parents) It was a very hard earned 3 points and I was glad to hear the final whistle to be honest (I could enjoy my tea-time pint now) I was proud of the girls for digging this one out, we did not play as well as we did last week v Asfordby and we can play a lot better than we did today, but this was a different type of victory where it was all about teamwork, pride, passion and commitment, we had it all and nobody could be faulted. We would have lost this game last season no doubt, and that’s what gave me an enormous amount of satisfaction I was more pleased today than I was last week when we won 6-0. To me it showed that we had moved on and had made progress. The girls deserve credit for that as its them who have worked hard and when you work hard you hopefully get your just rewards. Well done girls a terrific effort!! I was honestly so proud of you all.

Many thanks to Glenn and all at Bardon for there hospitality a great set up with nice people. Good luck for the rest of the season (not against us though)

Many thanks also to all of our parents; their support was invaluable once again.

Coventry City Girls 6 - 0 Asfordby Amateurs
League 9/9/07
Girls on fire

First game at home where we entertained Asfordby, they have always had decent sides so we new it would be a difficult match. A slight change in our preparation since last weeks game at TS with a physically hard training session last Wednesday and an hour warm up/ training exercises before today's match, we even had a whiteboard and marker pens! I'm not quite sure if all these things made a difference (I like to think so, but time will tell) but as a display from last week it was in a different league. Everything (well most things) that we practised and spoke about the girls did, and they did them very well. From the off we attacked and put Asfordby under pressure the channel running from the midfield and strikers was suburb. The defence was strong and composed and we were well on top. Jade who I cannot remember scoring in a game opened the scoring after about 7 mins capitalising on a loose ball in the box after the keeper made a save from a shot by Woody. Number 2 came from the same girl again, being in the right place at the right time. Zoe and Vinnie were linking up fantastically well with the midfield of Westy, Lou, Jade and Alice S. Our defence of Paige, Lindsay, Alice T and Cory, supporting and playing well as a unit. Lucy in goal was again excellent when called upon; even her kicking was going down the channel. Number 3 came from Amy West who scored direct from a corner the ball sailing into the top corner of the net. It was all us and some of the football and movement from the girls was a joy to watch. Number 4 came via Vinnie Wood smacking in from 20cm after a corner ball was pinging about in the box. We were all over Asfordby with our pace and movement troubling them all over the field. Changes were made to give other girls a run out as I was more than confident in there ability to keep producing the goods, on came Ash, Bertie, and Emily. Number 5 came from a girl who has wanted to score for a long time and it gave all of us great pleasure when she broke her duck, lifting the ball high into the roof of the net from a tight angle at the far left post. Well done Aisling Byrne (about time to!) 5-0 up at half time and I was actually pleased but it really should have been 7 or 8 (not that pleased then)

The second half continued in the same mode with us having nearly all of the play and Asfordby having sporadic attacks. But fair play to Asfordby they were defending better and they never stopped working and having a go I never seen one of there players drop there heads and they deserve credit for that. We had chance after chance but were struggling to finish in particular Zoe who was just having one of those days and we will not be taking the micky at training this week!. We were making a lot of changes now with Laura slotting in comfortably at the back, and trying to give all of the girls decent run outs. This disrupted play only slightly and we were still well on top. Jade went back on and she was told to get up front and get her hat-trick, low and behold number 6 arrived from the church mouse well done Jade richly deserved! It finished at 6-0 and to be honest it could have been 10 or 12. Today's performance was excellent with us slowing play down and using the channels and width of the pitch to great effect. Well done girls a great TEAM effort from all and a joy to watch. You made my Sunday a whole lot better than the previous one………Thank you

Thanks to all of the parents for there support, and for helping with the putting up and taking down of the nets. It is a great help and appreciated.

TS Sports 2 - 1 Coventry City Girls
League 2/9/07
Balls on fire

Our first game of the season ended in disappointment with a 2-1 defeat at TS Sports up in Burton-On-Trent. I suppose the first game is always hard as expectation is high and after our performance against Binley on Thursday night rightly so. Today's performance came nowhere near that level and we reverted to hot potato syndrome once again, not all of the time but far too much for my liking as I cannot really remember the ball being on fire and burning anybody's feet!

At times in the first half we were to slow in attacking, winning ball and gaining possession and when we did we win possession we gave it away to many times. TS worked hard and they have two decent strikers they had a few go's at our goal mainly as we were not picking up as we should do but Lucy King in goal was first class and bailed us out on a couple of occasions with good saves. We too had our moments our best chance going begging after striking the keeper when clean through and after a scramble they managed to clear. TS scored right on the stroke of halt-time when a through ball to one of there strikers ended up with her slotting in from the edge of the six yard box. This was after she had made a cup of tea and a slice of toast as she had enough time to do it before anybody attempted to close her off. So 1-0 at half time but I still thought that we would win.

Second half was better with us doing most of the attacking and trying to take the game to TS. But they hit us 5 mins into the half when a punt up the field resulted in us being slow out and playing one of there strikers onside who finished well. Bit of an uphill battle now and nothing to lose so we urged the girls forward. We were pushing them back but as per usual the ball never seems to drop for you, but we kept probing away and finally Alice Stutins finished with a good effort from the edge of the box. We still had 20 mins to go and had every chance to draw level at least. We dominated those last 20 and had efforts on goal charged down (credit to TS) and Ash also hit the post with an effort that deserved a goal.

The whistle went and we lost a game that I think we deserved to draw; we lost a game to a team who I believe we are better than, but that’s football for you, and sometimes it can be cruel. We need to be much more aware of what's going on, think quicker, stay in our positions better, improve our positional play, get in front of there player and shield the ball better. But above all we need to be A LOT MORE COMPOSED!! Not too much to work on really!

Thanks for all of your efforts girls, nobody gave in and you worked hard there in no denying that, but let's put out that fire on the ball please.

Thanks to all of the parents for there support, a long way to go it is appreciated.