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Coventry City Girls FC Under 15 B Team 2008/2009 Match Reports Coventry City Girls 1 - 2 Oadby and Wigston Dynamo Our first cup final and a game where we did ourselves proud and can count ourselves extremely unfortunate to have lost. Today's team Sizzle, Paige, McNut, Linz, Wessty {C} Jade, Woody, Loops, AT Stuts, Mighty Zo. Subs Emily, Ash, Cory, Masher McGuire. We took a very good Oadby side all of the way today, and gave a great performance, only to get beat right at the death from a great strike from a more than dubious free kick. Tears in abundance from a group of girls who gave it everything and were deserving of the highest praise. A cagey start from both sides and with neither side really threatening to much, but in the 15 minute we found ourselves 1-0 down when from a block tackle the ball ran loose right into the Oadby players path for her to advance into the area and finish well after rounding Sofia, a clinical finish but from a fortuitous bounce of the ball. We managed to recover quite well from the setback and the game carried on with neither side giving anything away. Oadby were asking questions of our defence and were slightly on top but it was a tight old game with both sides giving there all. Ash entered the frame after about 3o mins with Lou coming off and immediately looked at home wide on the left with Jade going into the middle, the half time whistle came and at 1-0 it was still game on. The girls looked as if they were losing 10-0 not 1-0 at half time and were quickly told that it was still in their grasp and that we were doing well but we needed to 'get at them more' our wide midfielders were dropping to deep and we had to get forward more. We started the half well and really started to get at Oddby from the off and we were now using the ball better and were starting to take control it was all us now and we were starting to win our little battles all over the pitch. AT who was now having a stormer struck the post with the keeper beaten and you wonder is that the chance gone. Emily came on for Woody and the momentum carried on. More changes were made with Cory coming on for Jade and a switch was made with westy going into the middle and Lauren going over to centre half, a quick switch to a 4-3-3, we got the equaliser we deserved when from a throw on the left of the box Ash put a ball in and there's big AT whipping it in, tails up it was all us and we were on top and threatening to get the win only the crossbar stopping us when Stuts turned and flashed one in only for the ball to hit the crossbar and come back out, this surely would have been the winner. Masher on for Paige settled in straight away and one turn away from her opponent in the box was of john Travolta disco dancing quality a shuffle and turn with time to burn!! With extra time looming large we were hit with a hammer blow 1 minute from time, when the ref deemed a fair challenge a foul about 20 yards out, on the far side of the box, the resulting free kick was struck with precision and went straight into our top corner it was a strike of the highest quality but in my opinion the free kick should never have been given, but credit the girl who struck the shot it was magnificent. That was that, we did venture back up the field but from our corner the ref blew for full time and the tears began to roll from our side while Oddby celebrated loudly on theirs. Its a cruel game sometimes and whilst gutted we lost it right at the death we should be proud of our performance. Both sides played well in what was a good final, and both should be proud that everybody on the pitch contributed in a fashion that was great for girl's football. Congratulations to Oadby on a terrific achievement and for having an outstanding season well done to all involved. It takes some doing what you have achieved so hats off to you all. Girls you deserved better, but be proud of the way you played today, on another day it would have been yours You made a young man happy and proud about the way you conducted yourselves and in my eyes you were the winners today. PP Amazing AT MP Leggy Linz, my hero Clarky Many thanks to everybody for their fantastic support today; it really meant something that so many friends' family and supporters made the journey into Wollybackshire to support our girls. I hope they made you feel proud. Many thanks to our parents for their help and brilliant support all season, especially Ivor the net, Andy the occasional flag, kev the cone, and not forgetting my favourite old trout!! Andre .XXX Loughborough Foxes 2 - 2 Coventry City Girls A trip out to very deep darkest woolybackshire today to play against a very good side in Loughborough Foxes. A trip up the M69 / M1 to find the location without getting lost is always a bonus. We found the venue with time to spare and a good job to as it was a 5 mile hike to the pitch, no need for a warm up today the walk was long enough. Today's team Sizzle, Paige, Lauren, Westy {C} Linz Emily, AT, Lou, Jade Zoe, Woody. Subs Ash, Cory. We started off and conceded within 38 seconds, caught in possession it was 1-0 before I had even had my gaggle of water to loosen the tonsils ready to shout, a poor defensive mistake when we should know better. Still never mind at least the weather was nice. We levelled about 5 minutes later when Jade sent a lovely ball across the face of the goal and in it went via an unfortunate Loughborough defender. This looked as though it would be a good game, Loughborough stepped it up and were proving to be the better side we were offering far to much space to them and they were taking it, they went 2-1 up in about the 20min when a through ball into our half caught us flat footed and they burst through and finished well. The girls were up against it and if it had not been for Sizzle in goal it could have been worse, she pulled off one save in particular that was world class, tipping the ball over the bar from a fierce angled shot, a magnificent save. Although they were the better side we were still creating and AT was unlucky not to equalise when AT shot but he ball bounced of the post and they cleared. We were hit with a bit of a blow when the Mighty Zo had to go off injured when twisting her ankle, and this left us a bit light weight up front, still on we played and managed to get through to half time with the score still 2-1 but we were second best to be honest. With Westy struggling a bit with her knee, we asked sizzle to play out and for GO WEST to go in goal, with this a couple of positional changes were made, and a few words were exchanged the kind of pull your fingers out type of words (all constructive though). With the sun beating down we took the game to Loughborough and made a much better contest of it, defensively we sharpened up and we were competing better all over the park. Our equaliser came midway through the half when from a free kick AT thundered the ball home, a goal as soon as it left her foot, a quality strike. From here on in a real battle commenced with both sides fighting for everything, the next goal would surely be a winner but neither side could force it and a great open game was a credit to both sides, nothing was being given away and the effort shown from both sides was admirable. The game ended up all square and with tired limbs, sore feet, and red but smiling faces. The girls game off happy that they had raised their game and won the second half. I got the response I was after, and after the game congratulated the girls on a very good second half performance. This was a really good game; credit has to go to both sides for a well hard fought and fair game. Wel l played to a very good Loughborough side. Well done to all of our girls today you stepped it up when asked, fair play. PP AMAZING AT MP LEGGY LINZ MY HERO CLARKY, Also a special mention to Sofia who was also worthy of the MP, PP, LP (12 inch vinyl) EP (extended play) she kept us in it in the first half and ran her socks off in the second half up front A TRUE LEGEND!! Many thanks to all of our parents for some fantastic support today. Coventry City Girls 9 - 1 Whittington Girls The record breaking sky blue girls went on a scoring spree tonight against a brave Whittington team who done themselves proud. Tonight's team Sizzle, Paige, Lauren, Westy, Linx Ash, AT, Jade Woody, Zoe, Stuts. Subs Lou, Cory Shannon, Emily. Record 1 it was our biggest ever victory 2 we scored our first ever headed goal (unbleiveable I know) 3 two players scored hat tricks in the same game. 4 and the best one yet we managed to go a game without conceding a foul throw!! the last one meant so much and showed how much the girls have come on. Anyway to the game, we went off and dominated from the start nearly scoring in the first minute and actually taking the lead with 3 gone, The Mighty Zo opening up on a loose ball in the box, gaols quickly followed as we swarmed all over Whittington, Ash managed her first goal of the campaign Stuts managed a couple as did the Wood girl (one a header). we were 6-0 up after only 25 mins, and so we began some changes. All of the subs came on except for dodgy back Masher Mcguire. We carried on being dominante but to Whittingtons credit they did improve and upped there game, if it was not for a goal line clearance from Westy they would of got one back. HT 6-0. The second half was of a similar affair but Whittington were working so hard and were having a bit of a go, the second half was a constant swap and change to give everybody a runout Westy went in the sticks and Sizzle went on playing upfront but we grabbed another 3 with Stuts and Woody completing hat tricks and AT sticking another one away. The best goal of the game though was scored by Whitington with a shot from 22 yards going into the roof of the net despite the efforts of the flying west machine. The game finished 9-1 and really should have been a few more with the woodwork, some great keeping and a missed open goal from miss clark not helping us, but there you go such is life. Massive big up for Whittington they got bodies in the way never layed down and never dropped there heads, a real credit to themselves. MP Mint McHardnut Well done girls, your discipline was good throughout and you made Andre a happy boy. Many thanks to the parents for their support, and for helping with the nets etc. Coventry City Girls 0 - 3 Oadby and Wigston Dynamo We played host to Oadby & Wigston tonight who were deservedly crowned worthy champions at the weekend, if all goes to plan they will go through the league season undefeated and only drawing one game, a magnificent achievement well done to all, and congratulations. Tonight's team, Sofia, Paige, Lauren, Cory, Linz Ash, Emily, Lou, Westy {C} AT, Zoe. Subs Abby, Beth. Oadby started the stronger team and for the majority of the game it stayed that way, they were quicker in thought, mind and body. Perhaps a hectic weekend contributed to this from our point of view, but in my worthless opinion Oadby wanted it more than some of our girls. All too often when we gained possession we gave it away with little in the way of finding space from our girls who prefer to stand next to the opposition player admiring their nails. When we did slow play down and showed a bit of movement we done well and showed that we could compete, but on the night not enough conviction was shown and all too often we preferred to try and pass the ball before we have even got control of it, better thought, support and hold up play is needed.. I also noticed the ball weeping at one stage and crying to be brought off as we were lashing and slashing at it for all of its worth, it was assault of the ball at the highest order, the ball needs to be treated with love and affection just like my good lady wife, not battered to death, perhaps the odd thump is okay (the ball I mean) But every cloud has a silver lining. We kept our brilliant record of winning the foul throw count in every game this season, we have won every game and to have a 100% record is some achievement, this game was tight though, it was only 2-0 which is a change from the usual 6-0 but when you win you cannot be choosy. No PP this game, Thanks to all for there help with nets etc, thanks to that nice girl Sarah Morgan who came to watch and ended up running the line and getting some abuse in the process, and many thanks to everybody who turned up to support. A special mention to Phil Coates and all at LFC Sparta down in sunny Devon. Many thanks for all of your help again last weekend, and for sorting out fixtures, pitches etc, you are a top man Mr Phil especially for a Forest fan. Will be in touch soon mate and good luck in your remaining games and down at Penzance. Applause and thanks of the highest order to you Phil. A huge thanks to all of our girls and parents, for their hospitality and for being a terrific group of people over the bank holiday weekend in tip top Devon. A tiring but great weekend, thank you. Love and affection, Andre .XX Oadby Owls 0 - 4 Coventry City Girls A cracking spring day, sun shining for a trip to Oadby Owls via the back streets of Leicester as my co-driver cannot read simple instructions. Petrol expenses forms via the old trout. Eventually we found our destination with all reporting fit and well. Many thanks to the traffic officer Jamie for directing the last 25 yards. Today's team - Sofia, Paige, Cory Westy {C} Linz Ash, Woody, AT, McNut Zo, Stuts. Subs Lou, Emily, Shannon A bone hard sloping pitch, with us going downhill in the first half against ten man oadby, resulted in us being in charge from the start, a few chances went begging and numerous balls into the box were not followed in with nobody anticipating the run of the ball. some little neat passages of play were outweighed by a bit of hot potato syndrome, and for all of our endeavour we needed to slow it down and pass it more, the first goal in the 25 minute resulted from a lovely exchange of passes via Emily who had earlier came on for Woody and the excellent Cory Williams who pushed the ball through to AT who made no mistake from 22 yards it was another great strike. A few changes were being made here and there with Shannon going on for Paige and Lou on for Lauren, the game carried on with us dominating the game and we really should of added a few more before half time Ash hit the bar and chances again went begging we but had to settle for just the one with Stuts finding the onion bag from 10 yards, Half time 2-0 The girls were praised for there efforts but were asked to produce a better quality of football of which they are more than capable of. We started off the second half well and were passing it like Brazil for at least 3 minutes and then decided to revert back to normal!! Anyway on we pushed and again were unlucky with a few chances and poor finishing with a few others, but hey when you're creating it can't be too bad. We picked it up and did play a better brand of football constantly taking the game to a brave Oadby side that were showing a fantastic attitude and fought for everything. Quite, a few changes were being made here and there with everybody getting a decent run out, only 3 players actually played a full game, one of them was Sizzle. We again hit the woodwork and it was not poor old Zo's day for all of her terrific efforts it werent going in!! we got a third when a clearance from Oadby went straight to Lou's feet and a sweet shot was struck into the roof of the net from just outside the area, 3-0 and job done, we got another 5 mins from time when the Wood girl scored her second of the week, an emphatic finish from a corner into the box to round the game off. A quick swap saw Sizzle take the centre forwards role along with 8 more forwards all looking to cash in on the last couple of mins, but we ended up at 4-0 with little Lous top slightly looser fitting. A good display with some lovely passages' of play and some not so lovely but who would moan at 4-0 a clean sheet and goals spread around the team. :) Hats off to Oadby Owls, they were excellent and should feel proud with their efforts, respect for the way they approached and played the game, a credit to manager Andy Lowder not as loud as me though!! Well played girls and credit to you too!! PP Cracking Cory MP Cracking Cracking Cory!! Many thanks to Jamie for doing the line (much better than our normal lino) and for all of our parents for their great support. Collections for a sat nav will be greatly appreciated thank you. Bedworth Eagles 2 - 3 Coventry City Girls A trip over to our Beduff for a Warwickshire derby saw the girls come away with a deserved 3-2 victory. A few positional changes due to Laurens unavailability and the team looked a bit like this Sizzle, Paige , Cory , Westy {C} Linz Emily , AT, Zoe , Jade - Woody , Stuts Subs Lou , Shannon , Ash. The girls secured their 3 rd victory this season against there local rivals. We started off attacking the allotments end and quickly got into our stride, the first ten mins were even steven with little given from either side neither goal was really threatened and it was a bit quite, we started to pick things up and started to dictate a bit more whilst being aware of the constant threat of the bedrock midfield and forwards, Westy and Linz were at their colossal best and dealing with most things well. The first goal is always the most important and after we missed a couple of reasonable chances the first one came in the 25 min from AT who after Woody had held the ball well in the corner fed AT who had found some space on the edge of the area and flashed one home. We pushed on from here but Beduff were a threat and broke forward and with nobody closing down Miss Pezza shot but wide it went, this was a warning. The girls were the better side now and we were looking the likely side to if any to score another, some rather stiff challenges were going about one in particular was downright dangerous and I always that thigh high stud showing challenges were deemed a foul and dangerous play and in my view a bookable or sending off offence but the referee obviously did not think this, there were a few stud showing fouls going in that went unpunished but a shoulder to shoulder challenge was getting pulled up it was poor officiating. Anyway moving on, we went on to score another when woody was put through and under pressure coolly slotted home for a great finish wide of the keeper. 2-0 at half time and worthy of it. Half time generally consisted of a lets not them back into it and to try and force the issue, we started off well and were the better side, Bedworth huffed and puffed it was us who were the most likely to score and up popped Stuts again to hopefully kill the game off. By this time Shannon, Ash and Lou had all been brought on for the excellent Cory, Emily and Woody, 3-0 up and never looking in any trouble we started to pick a few injuries up and when the AT had to go off the balance of the side was a bit dodgy and this allowed Beduff back into it, we started to go a bit deep and to fair they come right back into it. with 10 to go they pulled one back when a defensive mix up allowed big Sam in and she finished well, poor Sizzle was gutted her best mate put it in but as in true friendship at least they embraced!! It just goes to show that not even a goal can alter a friendship, I will bear this in mind the next time I play on a Friday night and promise to stop booting people ..cobblers!! Bedworth to be fair pushed the Calvary up and we started to get a bit panicky we conceded again soon after with big Sam again going through when she should have been tackled (I wouldn't though) no embrace this time but I wanted to embrace the girls by the throat for giving me more grey hairs. Don't panic came the message but dads (and mums) Army were on the sides and we could do nothing, oh dear I thought were going to blow this, we were all over the shop and with Bedrock pushing it was a nerve racking last 5 mins, we managed to hold on and on the balance of play deserved the win, but hats off to the bedrock girls they never gave up and gave it a real go at the end. Hats off to our girls, we went for the 3 points and went back down the Cov road happy enough to have gained them. Well done to every girl on the pitch both Bedworth and Coventry , a few friendships on the pitch and nice to see everybody giving their all and still being friends after that's what it's all about, The game was played in great sprit; credit to both teams .. It's only a game after all Sizzle have a giggle. PP Masher McGuire MP Captain Colossal (wicked westy) Thanks to our parents for there fantastic support again, love Andre.xx . Oadby & Wigston Dynamo 2 - 0 Coventry City Girls A tough trip to champions elect Oadby N Wigston resulted in a backs to the wall display where we defended brilliantly again only to be cruelly denied a draw after conceding two in the last 3 minutes. Today's team Sofia, Paige, Linz, Westy {C} - Jade, AT, Lou, Ash, - Stuts, Zo subs Cory, Emily, Shannon A great defensive display was not enough for the girls to grab a draw at table toppers Oadby N Wigston, the back four and Sizzle who was at her Sizzling best were cruelly denied what they had worked tirelessly for and we all went home empty handed. The game was really dominated by oadby from the start and they put us under pressure for a lot of the game, a lot of this was due to the match official blowing up for constant fouls against us and allowing a good enough side without the referees help to put telling balls into our box. We had little purple patches and indeed could have taken the lead when jade had a shot saved by the Oadby keeper midway through the second half, to be fair this would have been unjust as oadby had been the team most likely to score. With the clock ticking down and the partisan oadby crowd getting a bit restless it looked as if we would hold on for a hard earned point Oadby did score when they headed the ball home out of Sizzles hands and the ref awarded it but to her credit disallowed it after she realised that you cannot do that, when reminded about the rules, but with 3 to go a hopeful cross/cum shot from 25 yards out hit the roof of the net and you would of thought that the World Cup / FA Cup / premiership / egg cup had been won by the reaction of the home support and players, it obviously meant a lot. The girls were gutted after fighting for so long and another blow came from the last kick off the game when Oadby got a free kick (surprise surprise) 22 yards from goal Sofia made a fantastic save putting the ball against the bar only for the rebound to fall to an oadby player who forced the ball home despite another great attempt by Sizzle to prevent the goal, the only disappointing thing was that we did not react to the rebound and they did. Overall you could not disagree that Oddby had been the better team and had caused quite a few problems with balls into the box from long throws and numerous free kicks, the free kick count was something like 20 0 to the home team and I found that a bit unjust, we never got one free kick all game and some of the decisions against us were poor to say the least, I have a lot of time for officials as its not an easy job to do and they get a lot of unjust stick but we never got one decision today and that cannot be right over an eighty minute game. The rules need to be the same for both sides. This takes nothing away from oadby they were the better side on the day and are we led a charmed life at times and they will be worthy winners of the league and congratulations to them, we fought and were unlucky to concede so late, but they kept coming and its an 90 sorry 80 minute game and we never scored and they did end of story. Well done to all at Oadby, you deserve your league title and we wish you well for the rest of the season, and many thanks for giving AT and Albert a shove off the car park, much appreciated. Well done girls, especially the defence, and Sizzle a great effort from all you were fantastic. PP Sizzling Sofia MP Double Sizzling Sofia, pure quality!! Many thanks to all of our parents for there support. Whittington Girls 1 - 5 Coventry City Girls A potential banana skin awaited the girls over at Whittington after last weeks defeat of Bedworth, we made our way to Whittington army barracks with a firing squad on standby in case we got beat. I am glad to report that nobody was shot; a changed side took the field with the team starting as follows. Sizzle, Cory, Ash, Westy (C) Linz Woody, Emily, Lou, McNut Shannon, Stuts. Subs, Paige AT, Mighty Zo & Jade. Not a huge amount to say today, we took to the field and after a cagey start we were 2-0 up in 12 mins and 3-0 came in the 25th. Good attacking play from all of the girls resulted in Stuts firing home twice with beautiful finishes again and Zo notching after coming on for stuts. We were pretty dominant in the whole half and a few changes were made throughout with players coming on and off and positions altering. We came off 3-0 up and it could have been more, our football was not of the greatest quality and with more assurance and composure it would have been more. The girls were told to show more composure and to pass the ball more in the second half, we kicked off and our first touch was a woosh into the Whittington half with them gaining the ball straight away!! Words failed me (for a change) never mind as long as you win eh? Whittington were better in the second half and did press once or twice but a goal never looked likely, this is until switch off time when they broke and but for a cracking save at the feet of the attacking player by sizzle they would of pulled one back, this warning was not heeded and not long after they got a goal back when after poor marking and positional play they were allowed to break and the Whittington player unleashed a beast of a shot that ended up in the roof of the net despite a fantastic effort from Sofia to save it, the ball Just above her then dipping into the net, it was a brilliant strike. More changes were made with players constantly on and off and a change of positions which I suppose does not help but everybody was capable and our football should have been better. To the girls credit they regrouped and we went 4-1 up when from a corner AT attacked the ball and with a cracking volley rifled the ball home for another great finish for her third goal in 3 games. The game was over as a contest to be honest but fair play to Whittington they played with great heart and were constantly trying to put us under pressure. Stuts then went back on and was told to get her hat-trick and she duly delivered with another great finish from just inside the box. It was defo game over now and the firing squad was stood down. They game kind of fizzled out from here and it was quite strange really, we were always in control but it never seemed to matter, and some of us seemed to lose a bit of interest and respect for our brave opponents I was a little disturbed by this and it won't happen again. As a team and club certain standards need to be kept and word or two will have the desired affect. In summing up we have played better and lost, our football was average at best and we will need to be better in the coming weeks. PP Amazing Ash MP Lightning Lou Well done to Whittington for a good display and for giving it 100% credit to you all, good luck for the rest of the season (except the 28th) Many thanks to all of our parents for their great support once again. PS get well soon Ester, and thanks for all of the pictures over the last few weeks. I am ready to model for you whenever you want. Coventry City Girls 1 - 0 Bedworth Eagles (AET) A lovely spring like morning where we travelled up to Marlborough Rovers for our cup semi-final against our closest rivals and Warwickshire neighbours Bedworth Eagles. A 12.30 kick off and ready to rumble for a final spot against Oadby n Wigston who had beaten TS in the earlier other semi on the same pitch. The team to start. Sizzle, Paige, Linz, Westy, McNut, - Jade, AT, Loops, Woody Stuts, Mighty Zo. Subs Emily, Shannon, Cory. A hard fought encounter was what I expected and so it proved to be. We started positively with Jade nearly scoring after a couple of mins with a shot from just inside the box but the keeper saved well and Bedrock cleared. It was an even game with neither side really taking control and both cancelling each other out although on possession we had the majority but did not use it to its full effect. Both sides looked nervous and this was apparent sometimes when we had time but chose not to use it. We set our stall out today not to concede and to keep clearing our lines and to try and keep Bedworth under pressure in their own half. This was working well with the defence of Paige, Westy Linz, and Lauren performing admirably with Sizzle commanding in goal we were hard to break down. You do of course defend from the front and the girls responded to our wishes with Stuts and Zoe chasing and harassing and the midfield quartet AT, Lou, Woody and Jade really doing a sterling job in the middle of the park. The half petered out with us on top but only in terms of possession although we did have a couple of half chances which the keeper spilled but made amends with good recoveries and Stuts put one just wide from 12 yards out with no side really threatening to score 0-0 at half time it was. The second half started in much the same vein with both sides again proving hard to break down Bedrock did get slightly on top for a short spell and did press but today we kept our shape fantastically well and the defence was resolute and were not overly stretched. As the game bore on it was getting more obvious that the one goal would be enough to win the game with us in my opinion being the more likely to score we kept pressing and with a bit more fortune in and around the box would of got it but credit to Bedworth they kept getting in the way and kept us at bay. Still the game went on but we did not look as if we were going to concede so I was always confident if not a little edgy that we would hopefully got a goal. The clocked ticked down with extra time looking more and more likely but I was quite happy with this as our general fitness looked good and nobody was struggling we looked a fitter side but a few of the Bedworth players had also been eating their Jaffa cakes! The whistle went to signal another 5 mins each way for extra time, we just sat (sorry stood) for a couple of mins taking things in and the girls were told it was imperative that we did not go gung ho and that we had to keep our shape and to carry on the way we were playing this was a time for cool calm heads and if we done as we had been doing then we would be okay. The first 5 mins went by in an instant with nothing changing and penalties looking possible, we decided (me n Leigh) who was going to take them but still hoped for a goal as we knew it would more than likely break Bedworth's resolve. Well low and behold after about 2 mins into the last 5 off we went in search of what proved to be the winner, Zo got the ball out wide and fed it into the edge of the box where stuts got it with her back to goal and started looking for space to turn and shoot she then carried the ball for about 10 yards across the edge of the area looking for the space but then unselfishly found Jade who was on the other side of the box with a perfect lay off for Jade to lift the ball up and over the keeper into the far side back of the net, it was fantastic to see the girls reaction and it was no more than they deserved over the course of the game. With only about 3 mins remaining surely we could hold out. We made our one and only sub with Shannon going on for the last 2 mins for Stuts who had tweaked her knee. We saw the game out from here and it was fantastic to hear the whistle go and for us to reach our first final. Over the whole of the game it is my belief that we were worth the win, neither side really dominated the game but on possession and chances I felt that it was us who would be the more likely to score. Bedworth gave it everything and never shrieked a challenge they were very hard to break down and should feel proud that they more than played there part in an absorbing game with nobody giving an inch. It was hard on them but hopefully they will lift themselves up and finish off the season well. This was not a display for the purists to be honest, we never played fantastic flowing football but we played to exactly the game plan that I wanted us to play, this was built on not conceding and defending well and clearing our lines, pretty pretty no but effective yes, the defence was truly outstanding today and that is what ked us to victory. Everybody played their part and I was proud of my girls from the start to the finish they done everything that was asked of them and were disciplined and organised throughout and conducted themselves well at the final whistle. I nearly cried!! I would also like to convey my sincere apologies and thanks to our substitutes who never had a game (Shannon had only 2 mins) I appreciate the fact that it was a long way to travel without getting a game and it's not something that I am proud of. It was a very hard call to make and it does bother me that you did not get a game and probably feel hard done by, I understand that as I know from past experience that its not nice to get to such a big game having done a long journey only to not figure in it and therefore probably feeling left out, that was not my wish. I just felt that for ALL of the girls it was important for them to get to a final and enjoy the experience and so on this occasion I decided (rightly or wrongly) that the 11 girls on the pitch had the best chance of securing the win that I felt would benefit everybody in the squad so we can all look forward to a enjoyable day out in the final. Cory, Emily and Shannon you more than play your part in everything that we do and I understand your disappointment and frustration, I am truly sorry but as I said I hopefully made the right choice and that we all benefit in the long run. If I am honest I am as disappointed as you are and I dont feel great about it actually I feel sad but have no regrets as I live and die by such decisions and it was made in the interest of every member of our squad. It is no slight on anybody's ability as all we do is not down just to ability but to honesty, attitude and integrity and you all have that in abundance, I am proud of all of you and hope that you can accept my apology. Can I also thank our fantastic parents for your unrelenting support of your girls; I hope that you are as proud of them as I am. Your girls done you proud!! WELL DONE GIRLS THE DRINKS ARE ON MR KINGSBEER I BELIEVE!! Coventry City Girls 6 - 3 Asfordby Amateurs Today's team for our encounter at the Henley Arena against our visitors Asfordby. Sofia, Paige, Cory, Westy {C} Linz Shannon, Emily, AT, Jade, Zo, Stuts. Subs Woody, Lou, Ash. A few changes to the side today to keep things nice and fresh. An early setback occurred when we went 1-0 down in the first 5 mins when we were caught to square at the back allowing the asfordby player to run through and power in a shot which left sizzle in goal helpless. We responded well and then took the game to asfordby pushing forward down the channels. We got an equaliser after about 15 mins when Stuts again finished well when put through by the mighty Zo. A quick sub was made with Stuts coming off and Woody entering the fray. We continued going forward but we wee getting exposed a bit at the back and were looking a bit shaky but we went ahead in the 30 min when after a bit of a scramble in the box an unfortunate asfordby player put through her own goal under pressure from the fox in the box young Woody. Stuts came back on for woody and not long after we were 3-1 ahead with Stuts again the scorer keeping up her fantastic strike rate this season. Two changes were made at half time with Westy and Jade coming off for Louise and Ash. We started the second half in second gear and asfordby scored two in the first ten minutes to equalise with us looking all over the shop we had totally lost concentration again and were made to pay for it, Ash had to come off due to a nose bleed with Jade( one size fits all) filling in at full back we managed to get a foothold in the game again and rather than panic we started to push on creating chance after chance but missing them!! They were not only chances but complete gifts! Ash having got her nose sorted came back on for Jade and on we went. Still attacking we went 4-3 up with a suburb 25 yard strike from AT which sailed over the keeper nestling in the back of the net after a great lay off from Zoe. Tails were up now but the chances still went begging with Shannon, Jade and Zoe fluffing golden chances even Paige got into the act after a lung bursting 50 yard from deep within her own half taking on and beating players but firing into the side netting from 10 yards she kind of reminds me of somebody. It was all the toothpastes now and other goals had to come, super Stuts was then on hand to get our fifth and killing the game off a nice finish from inside the box thus completing her second hat trick in 3 games all good strikes and looking for accuracy rather than power. By this time Woody was on for Shannon and it was all one way. Westy re-entered the fray for Stuts with about 5 mins to go and pushed up front with the hope of getting a gaol for her birthday she duly obliged finishing well from the right hand side of the box to round off a bits and pieces display from the team. Once the forth went in we from here dominated and I am not sure if Sizzle in goal had another save to make but it should not of come to that and the focus and concentration needs to be better for next weeks semi. In summing up we have played a lot better and lost and we had enough chances to have scored into double figures but hey ho lets not be too picky. A win is a win in anyone's language and I was confident even at 3-3 that we would go onto win. Credit to the girls they picked it up when they had to and I was pleased with the effort shown. Well done girls. Well done to all at Asfordby always a good team to play against and who deserve respect for the way they approach the game. Good luck for the rest of the season. Many thanks again to our parents for their support and help with the usual nets and flags etc. PP Electric Emily Coventry City Girls 2 - 2 Harborough Town A tip top lovely spring morning at the Ricoh Henley Arena where we welcomed our friends from Harborough Town. Team Sofia, Paige, Linz, Westy (C) Lauren At, Woody, Jade, Louise Zo, Stuts. Emily, Shannon, Ash, Cory. A good start to the game and quick out of the blocks (for a change) we pushed Harborough back from the start and dominated the half, AT opened the scoring in the 15 min with a great free kick from about 22 yards out which sailed into the roof of the net leaving the keeper with no chance. A great start and we were playing well creating chances and really we should have capitalised and scored more goals. Harborough were looking good on the break and were unlucky once when they broke through and could possibly have scored but the referee pulled the game up for an injury. We kept pressing and our general play was very good Woody was having her best game for a while and along with Jade on the left they were using the channels well. Lou and AT took hold of the middle and with Stuts and Zo a constant menace we should have been clear at half time as the defence of Paige, Lauren, Westy and Linz were looking fairly comfortable alongside super Sofia in goal. All in all a good half and winning 1-0 when it should have been more. As so often happens in these games the opposition come out fired up for the second half and this was the case. Harborough raised there game a lot and after asking the girls to keep things tight and push on we found ourselves level within 4 minutes! To much space offered to the Harborough players and a great shot went in that produced a fantastic save from Sofia but only resulted in the loose ball being driven in by another Harborough player. It was all Harborough now and we lost a bit of shape and they were the better side. We seemed to weather the storm and started to come back into it but unfortunately we gave the ball away unnecessary at the back when we had ample time to either clear our lines or make a pass but instead we gave it to them and hey presto its 2-1, it was a setback and one that should have been avoided. Some of us seemed to drop our heads a bit and our support play was nowhere near what it should be, we had stopped doing what we were good at and were allowing far too much space to Harborough. Slowly but surely we started to come back into it and with both sides going for it another goal had to come, fortunately it came to us when after a ball into the box the unfortunate keeper fumbled and the fox in the box woody after switching to the left capitalised and forced the ball over the line. 2-2 and game on we had already made one change with Shannon replacing the excellent Jade and we made three quick more with Cory, Emily and Ash replacing Paige, Lou and the much improved Wood girl. Both sides were going for it but we came closest when Zoe crashed one against the bar and Shannon rattling the foot of the post, a couple went narrowly wide from both sides and again Sofia produced a couple of top drawer saves but we finished with even honours in what was another good game. After our first half dominance I thought that we would go onto win but credit to Harborough they upped it in the second half and a draw was not far of the mark. What you cannot afford to do is lose concentration and thats what we did for a while and it cost us the game but thats football for you. Well done to Harborough and we wish them luck in their Wooly back cup final on Friday. Martyn hope it all goes well for all of you. Well done girls we played very well at times and again looked a decent side but we desperately need to improve our support play to each other, you are more than capable but speed of thought is what counts. PP Amazing AT Many thanks to our parents for our fantastic support again and for helping with the nets, cones, flags etc. Coventry City Girls 3 - 1 Bardon Hill Ladies The girls reached the cup semi-final today beating a brave Bardon side who as always give it there all. A very cold blustery wind accompanied with hail and rain meant it was a bit on the sharp side! We kicked off attacking the college end and it was a cagey start with no side really getting a foothold in the game, indeed it took a goal in about the 8th minute from Bardon to wake us up. The pacy Bardon striker got away from her marker and from about 18yards rifled a shot which hit the underside of the bar and dropped into the other striker's path where she forced the ball home under pressure the ball trickling into the net. This did seem to wake us up a bit and we stayed calm and started to try and play some football a few attacks fizzled out and one or two went wide or over, the wind was playing its part but at least we were getting forward now and putting Bardon under pressure. Bardon too were doing well with there two strikers causing numerous problems with their pace and trickery. We equalised in the 25 minute when after some build up work through the middle a ball was played into Stuts feet where she turned her marker and struck a fantastic effort into the bottom of the net from the edge of the box, a quality strike. We were now beginning to get on top and starting to force the issue, Jade was having a stormer on the left side of midfield and the midfield of Louise, AT and Woody were gaining control of the middle of the park. We went 2-1 up when again Stuts was the scorer her link up play with The Mighty Zo providing a run trough the middle and again finishing aplomb and going for accuracy rather than power and finally doing what has been asked of her!!. We went in 2-1 up and had responded well to our earlier set back. The defence was told to get tighter on the slippery Bardon forwards in the second half and the girls were told to go looking for the 3rd goal to give us some breathing space, Bardon did push forward and were putting us under a bit of pressure but the safe hands of Sofia was not troubled and defensively Westy, Linz, Paige and Lauren were a lot tighter and more compact resulting in us dealing with things okay. Up front we were looking to release Zoe and Stuts early to get the killer third and again we were unlucky on a few occasions, the 3rd finally came with about 20mins gone, again it was Stuts, who gained an excellent hat trick again linking up well with the Mighty Zo and again finishing with accuracy after a lovely through ball split the Bardon defence. The weather was getting worst and the poor girls on the sideline must have been freezing, we needed to get the girls on and we made four quick subs with Emily, Ash, Shannon, and Cory replacing the excellent Jade, Paige, Louise and Woody. To the girls credit the balance was still good and we kept on going forward producing good football and workrate, Emily probing away on the left, Ash calm in at left back (no fluffy feet Ash) Cory providing a nice calm head at full back using the channel well, and Shannon again getting forward well from midfield and again nearly scoring. We saw the game out from here and deservedly won the game, we gave a decent performance in poor very cold conditions with Bardon again making us work hard for everything and providing great opposition, they are a good side who play the game in the right manner and we wish them every success for the remainder of the season. Well done to all 15 of our girls, you gave another good account of yourselves and deserved your win. Onwards and upwards!!!! Team 4-4-2: Sofia, Paige, Lindsay, Westy {C} Lauren Woody, Jade, AT, Louise Stuts, Zoe Subs Shannon, Cory, Emily, Ash Many thanks go to our parents again for all of their fantastic support and help, especially Kev the cone, Ivor the engine-net, Andy the net, and trout the corner flag, you are really appreciated. Coventry City Girls 2 - 3 Leicester City Ladies A lovely spring like morning at the Henley Arena where we greeted top of the table Leicester City. Missing 3 due to illness / unavailability we were down to 12 with a starting 11 of. AT Paige, Cory, Westy {C} Linz Woody, Lou, Jade, Emily Stuts, Zo. Shannon was our sub. A big test for the girls today against a good Leicester side who have lost just the once this season. The game started with both sides failing to grab the upper hand, and a hard fought encounter was on the cards. Both sides were looking for the win and both goals had a charmed life with chances going begging at either end, AT in goal made one outstanding save for the Sky Blues, whilst the Leicester Keeper was also equal to everything. The game as a contest was absorbing as you would like to see, both sides were having a real go and there was a few stiff challenges but to both sides credit both sets of girls got on with it and the game was played in a tremendous spirit. We took the lead midway through the half but the goal was cancelled off for a dubious offside. I suppose these things even out over a period of time and to be fair Leicester had a blatant penalty turned down later in the game. The game carried on with no let up from either side and we eventually found the net again just before half time when Stuts popped up on the right hand side of the box and lifted the ball over the keeper for a great finish, 1-0 half time. Leicester came out for the second half and equalised almost immediately, and it was game on again. The second half was a carbon copy of the first with both sides having chances and both sides were putting on a tremendous advert for girl's football, the game ebbed and flowed both ways, and it really was anybody's game. We again took the lead midway through the half when Zoe hustled her way through the Leicester back line to calmly put the ball wide of the keeper and into the bottom of the net. We needed a 3rd to seal the win and again had a few chances with the ball going just wide on a few occasions. Leicester to their credit never stopped and were a constant force going forward, they equalised with about 8 to go when a girl finished well from about 18 yards out, it was a good strike and a good finish. Leicester needed a victory today and they got a fortunate winner with 2 mins to go when they pounced on a loose ball and despite AT's efforts she managed to force the ball home, it was a hammer blow to say the least the girls had gave it their all and did not deserve this. We poured forward in search of an equaliser and had one great chance that with more composure and time would surely have given us a deserved draw but unfortunately it was not to be. Ourselves and Leicester can point to a serious of missed chances in as good as game as I have seen this season and it could really have been a 6-6 game with no side deserving to lose. Both sides can take a lot of credit for a great game of football, the game was tough and uncompromising at times but both sides were a credit to the game with a spot on attitude and handshakes all round after the game confirmed this. Good luck to Leicester on their battle for the title, and thanks for a great game played in a great spirit. Well done girls, you more than matched the league leaders and you gave everything, we cannot ask any more than that. Thank you. Players Player AT Many thanks to our parents for their support once again, and for helping with nets, flags, and cones etc .We appreciate your help and support thank you. Hinckley United 2 - 3 Coventry City Girls A breezy chilly day in Hinckley greeted the girls for our first game since Jan 18 and only our third since November. we had 14 players to choose from Hinckley only had 9, we should do this no problem. We were 2-0 down inside 15 mins!! The first goal being from a catalogue of errors and the second from a catalogue of errors! Things can only get better from here we thought. Well thankfully we did and we again created a fair few chances but due to a bit of bad luck, and a bit of lets try to hit the ball as hard as we can showing a lack of composure we did not score. We eventually got one with about 5 mins of the half still to go when the Mighty Zo finished well in the bottom corner to continue her excellent recent record in front of goal, this was after hitting the post earlier in the game. The whistle went and we came in 2-1 down with possibly our worst half of the season in terms of our display. We started the second half well and as you would expect the Hinckley girls tired a bit and we were attacking the Hinckley goal with a vengeance looking to equalise and hopefully go in front, it was constant sky blue pressure with sporadic moves forward for Hinckley. We got our equaliser when stuts was played in though a hole and beat the keeper lifting the ball over her and straight in, a great finish and we would surely go on and win. This we did when again Stuts finished with a cross cum shot that went behind the keeper to put us into a deserved lead. We kept pushing as there was still 10 to go and we needed another to make it safe, I am not sure how we did not end up with 6 or 7 but for the woodwork and for some outstanding defending from Hinckley we would off, indeed it took a great save from Lucy to keep us in front. The game ended with us gaining the 3 points and on chances we deserved it but all the credit must go to a brave Hinckley side who battled for everything from the first whistle to the last and for sheer effort you could not fault them. Credit to our girls also, we did improve a lot in the second half and when we actually slowed play down and showed a bit more composure we played well, we just need to think it though a bit more and not get rid of the ball as soon as it comes to us (hot potato syndrome) The pitch did not help as its not the biggest so therefore it was hard to drag them wide and create gaps but you have to keep the ball and keep working it not just whack it!! Well done to all thats twice recently we have come from 2 behind and whatever the circumstances thats not a bad thing. Well done to Hinckley a great team performance in a well fought fair encounter. Good luck to you. Many thanks for you efforts girls, well done. Thanks also to our travelling band of parents for their help and support once again. Team Lucy, Paige, Cory, Westy, Linz Woody, AT, Ash Lou, Zoe, Stuts. Subs, Shannon, Jade, Emily. Players Player Amy West Coventry City Girls 3 - 1 Bardon Hill Ladies A cold winters day, but with the Henley pitch in good condition, we hosted our old friends Bardon Hill. Never an easy game and very worthy opposition Bardon Hill are always a tough game for us. Last weeks game done us the world of good and we started off so much better this week, pining Bardon in their own half and taking the game to them. Ash had to come off after 12 mins with a pulled thigh so the excellent Cory came on and settled into full back with Lauren going into left midfield and despite it not being her given position she was first class. It was no surprise when we went in front when Louise finished well from inside the box after some great build up play from the right hand side. Tails up and on we pushed playing good football and liking up well all over the park. Stuts and Zo were playing fantastically well pulling off the markers and putting quality balls into the box. Although playing well and dominating play Bardon came closest to the next goal when the broke and with the ball rolling into the net Lindsay saved our skin chasing back and clearing off the line, a top class piece of defending. We were defending well with Paige, Cory, Westy and Linz letting little by them and the midfield of Lauren, AT and Woody always on hand, and up and down the pitch like a fiddlers elbow. The front three of Stuts, Zo and Louise were constantly probing and the build up play from all of the team was very good, we really should have had a few more but credit to the Bardon keeper she was in inspired form and was fantastic making some fantastic stops, in my opinion she is the best keeper in the league. We got the all important second goal when Stuts put one into the box where it fell nicely for Woody on the right hand side of the box to put it back over the keepers head into the far side of the net. The half carried on with us being on top but failing to add to the score. The second half was more of a mixed affair with us going off the boil slightly and allowing more possession to Bardon, Lucy in goal was not overly troubled though and what she had to do she done very well. Although not as convincing as the first half we were still creating a fair few chances with chances going wide or the keeper making great blocks. Bardon got a goal back midway through the half when from a corner the ball dropped for a Bardon player who steered the ball home 2-1 and a few nerves set in. Bardon's tails were up and we were less than convincing again for a short while but Lucy was not really troubled in the goal. Louise came off and Emily switched to wide left. We slowly picked our game back up and we had a few chances to kill it off but again it was going just the wrong side of the post, we made another switch with ten still to go when Shannon came on for Woody to make her debut for the team in a wide right role. This as a bit of a gamble as its the first game of competitive football that she has played but she acquitted herself quite well and actually nearly got a third goal for us but unfortunately a slight miss control and the chance went begging . We killed the game off with five mins to go when after a bit of pressure the mighty Zo rounded off another great game with the all important third, again coming after great wide play and a quality ball into the box. Super Stuts then came off to a worthy round of applause and Lou went back on up front to steady the ship and see us home. All in all a decent performance. We played some good football today and were worthy winners against a Bardon side who always make it very hard us. They are very good to play against and are a credit to themselves with the way they approach the game. Good luck to them for the remainder of the season. Our girls today were very good, and deserve a pat on the back for the effort that was put in and the football that was played. It was a good performance both individually and as a team, well done to all. Players Player Stuts Managers Player Stuts. Thanks to our parents for their excellent support. Special thanks to Ivor Stutins, The Old Trout, and Pete McNulty for all of your help. It's appreciated. Asfordby Amateurs 2 - 3 Coventry City Girls Today's team (4-3-3) First game of 2009 and a trip out to Asfordby on a still cold windy day. Having not played since November and disrupted training for weeks some girls had not kicked a ball for 6 weeks or so and a few were under the weather it showed!! Both teams were desperately short of practice and it was a game of misplaced passes and poor movement due to the lack of football the girls had not had. Both teams failed to put there mark on the game and it was a bit of a scrappy affair. Asfordby took the lead midway through the half when they broke and we were exposed at the back the Asfordby player took the ball on and with skill and composure she finished well in the bottom corner. Both teams were making chances and both teams could have had more goals but both keepers were playing well with one save from Lou from the Asfordby keeper was top drawer. The half ended with us 1-0 down and an improvement was needed. Words to the good at half time as we were second to a lot of balls and we needed to assert ourselves better. A change to 4-4-2 with Cory coming on for AT, Emily replacing Ash and Lou and Lauren going into midfield. We did start the half better with a bit more guile rather than craft and chances were coming and going but our final ball and movement was still not the best and it a major blow when Asfordby went 2-0 up midway through the half after we failed to clear our lines. Game over? Not today both teams were tiring but to our girls credit we actually started to take over and we pushed on and found another gear, the keeper pulled off a couple of good saves Woody hit the post and with better finishing we would have been back in it but it looked like one of those games, chances galore but nothing to show for it, Linz was pushed up and we went with 3 at the back Asfordby were tiring more and we got a goal back with ten to go, when Stuts flashed one in from just inside the box. We got the equaliser only two mins later when the Mighty Zo got her shot in with the ball squirming over the line after the keeper made a partial block, Asfordby were at sixes and sevens now and after a seconds thought weather to play safe for a point or go for 3 we decided nothing ventured nothing gained, it was all the sky blues now (actually the red n whites) and we layed siege at the Asfordby goal, Linz really should of got the winner but with only the keeper to beat she nudged it a bit to far in front of her (typical defender)and we thought that was that, but a minute later with about 2 to go up popped the Mighty Zo again, finishing in the bottom corner to round off a wonderful comeback. Linz get back to where you belong and we seen the game out from there. All in all a well earned great three points, from a mixed performance and we can certainly play better than that, but the same could be said of both sides, it was plain to see that nobody had played for a while, and the quality of the game was so-so but in the second half particularly we did up it a bit and the girls kept working and pushing and got their rewards, Asfordby were in the same boat as us and it was hard for them to lose it so late but you take what you can and it was a reversal from last season when they did they did the same to us, I didnt see anybody crying for us!! Well done girls, credit where its due you kept going and thats what won you the game. PP Amy West MP The Mighty Zo Many thanks to all of the parents for their fantastic support. Coventry City Girls 3 - 1 Rugby Town Team Abby, Paige, McNut, Clarky, Westy, AT, Ash, Jade, Stuts, the mighty Zo, Woody. Subs - Loops, Lauz, Kingy, Cors. What a difference a week makes, a right old tonking last week and a fully deserved victory this week. With a full squad to choose from (except Emily who went home ill) the team was rotated a bit with various positional changes. The girls responded brilliantly to last weeks setback and went after rugby from the off, there was a lot more energy about our performance this week. This didnt stop us going 1-0 down though when Abby cleared the ball only for it to hit against a rugby players legs and rebound into the net. We responded well with prolonged pressure on the rugby goal this resulted eventually with an equaliser with Lauren forcing home via a slight deflection in a crowded goalmouth. Rugby also responded to this and but for some great last ditch defending by Linz and a shot unluckily coming back of the bar we would of gone in a goal down at half time, this would have been unjust as we had been the better side and were playing very well we had enough possession and chances ourselves to be in front. The second half started as the first with the sky blues intent on gaining the upper hand and taking the game to a well organised good rugby side. Every girl was playing their part and working as a team, this paid dividends when we scored twice in three mins about a quarter of an hour into the second half, some great play down the left resulted in the ball put across the face of goal with poacher Woody on hand to stick it past the unlucky keeper who made a great effort to keep it out, we made it 3-1 soon after when AT shot home with a cruel deflection deceiving the keeper, a bit fortunate yes but its happened to us so many times, and to be fair it was no more than the girls deserved. Still a long way to go so concentration and focus was everything, we defended well and although rugby had a couple of goes Abby was equal to everything and with stout defending we were able to cope okay. More chances fell for the blue girls and we did miss a sitter ourselves which would have put the game to bed. The excellent Ash came off with Louise going on then Cory and Laura went on late on to replace the equally excellent Paige and Woody, the girls seen the game out for a richly deserved victory. All four goals in the game had a element of luck in them but if your not there then the ball dont go in, both teams can consider themselves unlucky not to have scored more goals, but a bit of luck and a big boot always comes in handy. This was a good game with both teams more than playing there part, but overall there could be no complaints that the better side on the day gained the three points in a game played in totally the right spirit with both sides a credit to themselves. Good luck to Rugby for the remainder of the season. Well done to the sky blue girls, a good performance against a good side, you only ever get out of it what you put in to it; no complaints this week, you all deserved it. Players player AT Many thanks to our parents for the great support once again, and for helping with the nets corner flags etc. it's appreciated. Rugby Town 7 - 1 Coventry City Girls The Sky Blue girls took a bit of a thumping today at our Warwickshire neighbours Rugby Town. We took the field with the bare 11 with unavailability and illness stretching the squad to the bare bones. Rugby also had the bear 11 but wasted no time in making their mark going 1-0 up with barely a minute Gone, this is starting to become a bad habit. We were 2-0 down within 10mins and it looked like a long morning was in store. The girls managed to then get a foothold in the game and started to peg back rugby a bit, with both sides getting forward well and creating chances it was obvious more goals would come. Unfortunately for us rugby added a third before half time with a cross come shot that should have been dealt with better, in fact all three goals should have been dealt with better. 3-0 down at half time but it was not the fact that we were playing poorly as actually our football was quite good, but we are conceding soft goals far too easily and its costing us dearly. We started off the 2nd half well and on the front foot causing all manner of problems and putting rugby under a lot of pressure and it told when we pulled one back with 15 mins of the second half gone. Was the great comeback on? Well yes it was but only for about 2 minutes when we again allowed rugby to much time, possession and space and 4-1 it was. This was quickly followed by another couple of goals and it was game well over!! We still had a go and hit the post and the keeper saved a couple but it was to little to late and they ended up going 7-1 up and thank the lord the ref blew his whistle. A resounding victory for Rugby who passed the ball well and were always positive. A good performance from us in stages, we actually played some good passing football but the ugly things need to be done as well like being stronger in the challenge, and attacking the ball better, we were to lightweight at times and our concentration and effort needs to be better. Keep the faith girls, I am. You are a good side who are capable of a lot more, take the challenge!! Well played to Rugby, a good game played in a good spirit. Thanks to our parents for their great support, it is appreciated. You too keep the faith!! Players Player Amy West Coventry City Girls 2 - 2 Oadby Owls Girls 2008 The girls battled back from 2-0 down at half time to gain a point against a spirited Oadby Owls. We were two goals down within 11 mins the second another blatant offside (this time by only 3 yards) so it was roll your sleeves up time. We went on to really dominate the first half with some good football, pressing Oadby back time after time. Credit to Oadby there defence stood firm under pressure and the goalkeeper was having a great game. The Oadby goal led a charmed life and it was frustrating to go in 2-0 down at the break after really being on top for most of the half. The second half carried on the same, the girls were on top leaving Oadby to counter attack, and we gained a goal back after 55 mins when Zoe shot from the right hand side of the box lifting the ball over the keeper, the ball nestling into the top of the Oadby net. Onwards we urged and we again carried on attacking the Oadby goal We equalised about 5 mins later when Stuts finished well after some great link up play all over the park. Various changes were made to the team to give all of the girls a game and we carried on where we left off pushing them back and searching for a winner. Oadby to their great credit were working their socks off and were looking dangerous on the counter attack. It was a next goals the winner game and although we were the dominate team and pushing forward the keeper was equal to everything and the ball would just not drop for us. We were also trying our best to make sure they won with some kamikaze defending that nearly resulted in a Oadby goal, Lucy putting in a good block when really it should have gone in, we carried on with the kamikaze game once more but again we survived. So there the game ended at 2-2 some would say a deserved draw for Oadby, and good luck to them they certainly worked hard and sometimes you deserve a bit of luck, but for me it really should have been 3 points to the sky blue girls, we had enough chances and possession to have won the game. Well done girls I thought we played some decent football and the tempo and work rate was good. Good luck and well played to the Owls, we wish you luck for the season. Many thanks to the parents for their support and help with the nets etc. Coventry City Girls 1 - 3 Loughborough Foxes They say fortune favours the brave, well Loughborough were brave today and went home with 3 deserved points, I would not say they were fortunate but if a couple of decisions had gone in my opinion the right way then we would of gone 2-0 up and not conceded a blatant offside for an equaliser. Decisions like this sometimes go against you and it's hard to take, but its never easy being put on the spot and having to make decisions and we all do and see things differently and I have respect for the decisions that were made and for the people that made them. Anyway Loughborough went home with the points after dominating the second half and putting us under pressure for most of it, this was after a first half when we went 1-0 up with a great strike from 25 yards from Woody after about 25mins, the first half was a really good game with two committed evenly matched sides. Good football from both sides to warm us up on a chilly old day. The second half was a different affair with Loughborough being the dominate team after upping their game And sadly we lost a bit of shape with people drifting away from their positions and not following instructions. We had stopped working as a unit and it seemed to turn into a bit of a jolly for some players. Loughborough Got a deserved equaliser with about 10 mins to go, and then after a defensive howler made it 2-1 with 5mins to go. It was a shame on the defence who to be fair had battled throughout when under a lot of pressure and had defended well throughout. The howler was a mistake and no blame is attached, we all make them and at least the girl involved had the guts to put her hands up and admit her mistake an apology was not needed. Loughborough got a third right at the death when reacting quicker to a loose ball after a great save from Lucy. So there it ended in a 3-1 defeat which was a bit harsh I thought. Whist there is no denying that Loughborough deserved there victory with their 2nd half performance, I thought we also kind of gifted them the 3 points with our positional play somewhat wayward despite instructions being given, when people choose to ignore them then it becomes very hard work, and this in my opinion contributed to our defeat some players took it on themselves to play where they wanted and the formation that worked well in the first half changed but not on anybody's instructions. I am not saying I am right all of the time because I am not. On reflection I made some mistakes on Sunday also, but regardless of that fact when you put in a lot of hard work into your team and when you do what you belief is right at the time then players have to react in the right way and play where and how you want them to, its called RESPECT even if you think they are wrong. Overall I thought we gave a decent display especially in the first half against a good Loughborough side who I thought were the best side we have played this season but we lost our way in the second half, and it cost us the game. Well played to Loughborough you upped it when you needed to and deserved your victory. Disappointed faces at the end of the game, and perhaps this contributed to a lack of interest from some of the girls towards training this week when most of them were not bothered if we trained or not, this really disappointed me and Leigh, but it's your team girls and I suppose you dictate to a certain degree but dont try dictating to much as they may be nobody to dictate to. Many thanks to all of the parents for their great support and for helping with the nets etc. Leicester City Ladies 4 - 0 Coventry City Girls A defeat at the hands of a good Leicester side was no disgrace today. We only had 10 players and 3 of them were not well or injured. But I thought we gave a decent account of ourselves against fair and sporting opponents. After the Harborough fiasco this was a better display with everybody doing their best (as they always should) We did not help ourselves by conceding a soft goal after about 2 mins but we gradually clawed our way into the game and made Leicester work for everything. It was a good contest played with both sides trying to play good constructive football we battled back and had a few chances but so did they but we were doing well and playing the ball wide and into the box but Leicester defended well and the keeper was first class. We went in at half time 1-0 down. The second half started the same as the first we conceded another early goal, still we had a go and on another day would have scored but the Leicester keeper was in top form and was equal to everything. The girls were excellent but eventually Leicester overpowered us and got another couple towards the end of the game which was a bit harsh on the girls, as they had defended quite well and Lucy was great in our goal saving us on a couple of occasions. All in all a good display and the girls deserve some credit. With a bit more luck And a few more decent decisions we may even of got a couple. Players player Lucy King Well done to a sporting and fair Leicester side they played a good game in the right way. Well done girls thought you done well. Credit to you all. Thanks to the parents for their great support. Harborough Town 6 - 1 Coventry City Girls Team Lucy, Paige, Linz, Cory, Ash, Lauren, AT, Woody, Jade, Stuts, Lou. Subs Westy, Zoe, Emily. There are two sides to this team. One side is good where we all pull together and work for each other, play good football and show heart and courage with an attitude to match. This is the side that started the season so well and were a credit to themselves. The other side is the one that does not turn up and cannot be bothered with an attitude to match. In vey simple terms to many of our girls are not overly bothered in their attitude to training and games. This does not apply to everybody in the squad but one is too many and unfortunately we have more than one. If you want to get anything out of life then quite simply you have to put the work in, football is no different. Some people seem To think that they only have to turn up to training and games and have a guaranteed a place whatever their attitude Well I have news for them ..they dont!! I can put up with people making mistakes as long as they put the work in on the pitch and try their best. If everybody tries their best then they should be applauded whatever their ability. I can't put up with people with a careless not bothered attitude who think they just have to turn up to play and are not willing to give it their all. This includes playing, training, warming up and warming down. Some girls need to ask questions of themselves and ask am I bothered. It's your shout girls not mine. As for the match, Harborough were better in every department. They out-passed us, out-played us and out-fought us, credit to them. In simple terms they wanted it a lot more than we did. We did not start playing until we were 5-0 down and to be fair we did have a few chances but it was too little to late, and we were deservedly well beaten. But it doesn't matter, the girls were happy, laughing and smiling in their attempt at a warm-down despite losing 6-1 and thats all that matters really isn't it? Players player Emily Aston Coventry City Girls 5 - 1 Bedworth Eagles At home to our nearest opponents Bedworth Eagles, on a warm autumn morning just right for a game of footie. Todays team. AT Paige Linz Ash Lauz - Woody McNut Westy Jade. Stuts Zoe. Subs Louise, Emily, Cory, Beth. A tough test in store was expected and a tough test we got. We were 1-0 down after 3 mins! Oh dear this was not on the script, good forward play from Beduff resulted in them taking an early lead when we failed to clear our lines after giving the ball away, a poor avoidable start. Oops what happens next we go straight up the field and with some great play from Stuts she delivers the ball into the box where the Mighty Zo flashes one into the onion bag, a great response 1-1 with only 5 mins gone. Game on, after only 7mins we got another to take the lead. Again Stuts was the provider assisted by Westy and Ash with some great link up play, another ball in and Woody was on hand to force the ball in from 1ft, slightly fortunate perhaps but if you're not there you dont score. The girls were visibly lifted by this and we began to get on top. The midfield was impressive with great energy from Jade n Westy, McNut was marshalling well and barking instructions to all. We again pushed forward and we were creating chances and moving the ball well. Beduff were also hard at it and were certainly playing their part in a good contest, they had a couple of good efforts on goal they did shave the post with one effort and were particularly dangerous from some excellent corners, but AT in goal was first class with her positional play very good. The defence alongside her of Paige, Linz, Lauz and Ash were also playing their part working well as a unit when under pressure and trying to play there way out of trouble when they could. We went 3-1 up after about 20mins with this time Stuts getting on the score sheet with a shot from 18 yards which the unfortunate keeper could only help into the net, again slightly lucky but you take what you can when you can, she missed a bucket load last week! We pushed on from this and the girls were looking good all over the pitch Lindsay made a great run from the centre of defence midway in her own half carrying the ball about 40 yards and actually getting close to the Bedworth box with a fantastic run, this resulted in her getting a nose bleed for being from being far to high up the pitch as she normally never crosses the half way line! I had to tell her off for being out of position; she was lucky I never dragged her off and kicked her backside!! The work-rate and commitment from the girls was first class. Zoe and Stuts were a real nuisance up front and the Midfield had taken a hold of things and we scored again after 27mins when Stuts got her second making it 4-1 finishing well from some great build up play. We were very much on top now and playing some great football, every one of the girls was playing there part with some super support play all over the park. We made it 5-1 after about 33mins when again Stuts was the finisher but I can't remember the goal to be honest, well I am nearly 36. Louise came on for the excellent Jade and settled very well into the middle of the park. So 5-1 up at half time, not to bad at all I suppose. The second half was a lot tighter with both sides really cancelling each other out, the girls done what was asked of them and did not go into the game thinking the game was already won. Due to the half time break we did lose some momentum and this was only to be expected really, credit to Bedworth they kept plugging away and never gave up the chase, we had a couple of hairy moments but all in all we dealt with most things very well, nobody stopped working and we were okay to make more changes with Emily coming on for Woody, Cory for Paige, Beth for Stuts and Jade going back on. All of the girls coming on and playing very well we were still creating chances and both sides could of added to the score. So a fairly even second half finished at 0-0 but the girls were told not to concede and we didnt so it was a good job done in that dept and that pleased us as much as anything. So a 5-1 victory was ours, a great result against a good side who on another day would have had a couple more themselves, and it would maybe of been a different result but we deserved our victory today, we approached the game in the right manner and everybody played there part in a very good team performance. Well done to Bedworth they had some good spells and always tried to play good football and played in a fair and sporting manner, girls football was the winner for both sides. Many thanks to all of our parents for their great support, the parents for helping with the nets, etc and collecting cones (Kev), for the referee for his fair and sporting display and to all of the people from within the club for their support, we appreciate it. Player of the game Lindsay Clark Bardon Hill Ladies 0 - 0 Coventry City Girls Off up to sunny Bardon for a second game of the season, its always been a tight affair with Bardon and it proved to be the case again. We started with the following team Lucy, Paige, Ash, Linz, AT, Woody, Westy, Jade, Zo Stuts and Lou. Subs were Laura, Cory and Emily. The first half kicked off with our-selves going uphill. We started off okay and were pressing well, some good passages of play from both sides and an even contest between two committed teams was unfolding. We were doing most of the attacking with plenty of endeavour being shown, we were on top and playing well, Paige had to come as she was struggling for breath so on went Laura to replace her playing out of position but adapting to it well chances were being created by us now and but for some better finishing and good goalkeeping we would of gone ahead, Lou had to come off after getting caught on the bridge of her nose hand/elbow (accidental I mightn't add) a quick change again with Cory coming on at full back to allow Laura to go in at Centre half with AT then pushing on up front. To the girl's credit they kept on playing well and AT seemed to enjoy her role, the link up play from defence to attack was good and we had chances but again failed to capitalise. Defensively we looked pretty good with Linz moping up well when Bardon broke through and threatened with Lucy in goal also a lot more aware of things and being positive. Woody was looking alive in her wide right role (its a pity her mum was not) Westy, Zo and Jade were running the midfield Stuts was threatening as usual, and we really should of gone in at half time with a lead but credit to Bardon they to had a good half and as usual were proving to be tough opponents. A slight change in tactics for the second half with the focus on a more attacking policy, again we started brightly with good passing sequences and plenty of chances, Lindsay had to come of due to injury (wimp) with Westy slotting Into CH, and Louise coming on in Centre Mid, we were using the width better now and with AT and Stuts linking up well and Zoe pushing in behind it was frustrating that we did not take the lead, we had chances galore only to put wide or the keeper making great saves to stop us taking a deserved lead. It was not all one way though as Bardon also broke on a few occasions and had good efforts on goal but Kingy was equal to them. We eventually scored a goal AT shooting and putting away well only for it to be ruled out for offside which was dubious to say the least, but these things happen and you just have to get on with it ..aaaaaahhhhhhhhhh Emily and Cory came on for the excellent Ash and Jade and still we kept pushing, some cracking balls putting us through on goal but still we could not finish, and you then begin to think its not going to happen!!. Well it didnt and we finished all square which was a little frustrating as we had enough chances to win the game and with more composure in front of goal we would of won, but whilst slightly frustrated with the result, I could not grumble with the performance we attacked and defended well, the work-rate and the commitment was excellent and thats all you can ask for really, we tell the girls give it your all and we will be happy, they done that so we have no complaints so a bit of a double edged sword really but performance wise not one of the girls let us down so hats off to them. Credit to Bardon they worked terrifically well and deserve a lot of credit for sticking to their task and playing and working very well, they are a good side they play and approach the game in the correct manner and are a credit to themselves, good luck to them for the rest of the season. Players Player - Amy West Martin Baskerville you would be proud of your girls!! Coventry City Girls 2 - 2 TS Sports A warm late August summers morning and our friends from TS Sports were our opponents for our first game of the season. Having played TS a few times last season we knew what to expect from them and how hard the game would be. They are after all the deserved double winners from last season, so respect for them was assured. With no preparation to speak off this pre-season it was the toughest game we could have had. Off we go in our smart new kit and it was the usual cut and thrust with nobody giving an inch. Both sides looked threatening and it was as suspected a tough battle. We took the lead midway through the first half when a shove in the back resulted in us being awarded a penalty which was duly dispatched by Woody. Tails up and we were matching them all the way. Unfortunately (again) we failed to hold onto our lead. TS were right back at us and within 5mins had equalised when we failed to clear the ball resulting in a good finish for TS. The game ebbed and flowed with no quarter being given from either side TS were unfortunate not to have gone ahead before half time with 3 cracking efforts bearing in on goal only for our saviour Woody making 3 terrific goal line clearances With me shouting for her to get out! (We all get it wrong sometimes) we went in 1-1 at half time and we were worthy of it. We knew that they would come at us a bit in the second half and that we had to keep our discipline and shape and match them as much as we could and to the girls credit they did this. TS upped it a bit and we responded. It was a feisty old game with all 22 players on the pitch giving it their all and no quarter being given from either Side. We had chances they had chances. TS went 2-1 up midway through the half when after winning a drop ball the player was allowed to run 15 yards unchallenged and finished with an excellently placed shot into the bottom corner of the net, considering we had made many good challenges' in this game I was disappointed that nobody closed this on off but credit to the girl it was a good finish. TS on top now, would we capitulate like we have done before? Well blow be over no we did not, the girls picked themselves up and had a go back. We attacked; they attacked, with both teams unlucky not to score. We got our deserved equaliser with about 5 mins to go when a TS defender unluckily struck the ball high towards her own goal it dropped over the keeper and Stuts managed to toe poke home under pressure from the keeper and a defender, to be honest it was a fortunate goal but no more than we deserved and fortune favours the brave as they say. The game finished in a deserved draw. This was a tough opening fixture against a team who are not only a good side but who give it their all and are strong with a lot of self belief; it was a good result for us and the girls responded to the challenge in the correct manner and gave a performance for which they should be very pleased with. They kept their discipline throughout and answered my questions of them. I could not have asked for more from them. Maybe it was the smart new kit! Well done to TS they are a good, tough team who work hard and credit to them. They will have another good season and will no doubt get better. Many thanks to our parents for helping with the nets etc, and also for their great support of the girls. Team Lucy, Paige, Ash, Linz, Laura, Woody, Westy (capt) AT, Mighty Zo, Stuts, Lou. Emily, Jade, Lauren. MOM Woody a great individual display all over the pitch. |