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1st Team Match Report
Thank You
On behalf of the First Team, many thanks to all parents, partners and anyone else who turned up through all weathers to support us.
You are without doubt some of the most loyal supporters possible.
To Mrs Mudd, many thanks for what can, at times, only be described as divine intervention. I’m thinking of Ferndale in particular.
To those who helped with nets, corner flags, running the line, looking after jewellery or anything else that makes our job easier on a match day, we are forever indebted to you.
Sundays won’t be the same without seeing you all.
Thanks again.
Jamie
Coventry City Girls 6 - 0 Knowle Ladies
League 30/5/10
A Final Fling
The First Team completed their league campaign today with an emphatic 6 – 0 victory over Knowle LFC.
Having already sealed the runners – up spot in their first season in The West Midlands Division I South, The Ladies looked relaxed and composed as they played some of their best football of the season.
Sarah Giles netted her third hat trick of the season with Sam Pattinson scoring two and skipper Maria Hayward completing the scoring. Giles finishes the season as the leading scorer with 24 goals from 27 games and Pattinson netting 15 from 28.
On the defensive front, The Ladies can be extremely proud as they finished the season as the meanest defence in the league conceding only 16 goals from the 20 games – 5 goals less than the second tightest, Dudley.
The Ladies should be extremely proud of their endeavours this season having won The League Cup and finished as runners – up to Dudley in the league itself.
The team spirit has been extraordinary throughout and their ability to fight through times of adversity is truly wonderful. Dave and myself are so proud to be associated with such spirited individuals. This season has been a real roller coaster and you have lifted yourselves so well after the disappointment of the defeat of Dudley. People said that they thought you would struggle to win another game following that defeat but we knew better.
Hopefully, we will see you next season!
Our best wishes go to Lynn Millbourn as she relocates in her career and to those leaving us to further their studies at university.
Team: Williamson, Mudd (Welland), Sidwell, Gassor, Millbourn, Stanley (Middleton), Hayward (Capt), Gibson, Mochrie, Giles, Paulie (Pattinson)
Goals: Giles (3), Pattinson (2), Hayward
Coventry City Girls 5 - 0 Marston Green
League 9/5/10
Still in the Running
The First Team kept their league title hopes alive this afternoon with a thoroughly professional display which saw them run out 5 – 0 winners over Marston Green.
Through either work, injury or other commitments, they started the game with only 12 available players and could, on another day, have found it hard work. However, through keeping the football simple and allowing the ball to do the work, they dominated the game from start to finish.
Shannon Middleton opened the scoring a quarter of an hour into the game and this was followed up by a goal from Sarah Giles on 30. City were unfortunate not to have a third just before the half time whistle when Giles was adjudged to have been offside running on to a shot which thundered back off the cross bar.
HALF TIME: COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT FC 2, Marston Green LFC 0
City took a few minutes to find their feet in the second half and could have sat back on their lead. To their credit, they sensed blood and continued in the manner they finished the first half.
Sam Pattinson continued her own fine run of form as she notched City’s third on the hour mark before Hannah Paulie added the fourth following a fine run and cross from the ever industrious Giles.
The fifth goal came from Lianna Mudd who finally realised how to jump in the opposition’s box and headed the ball into the top left hand corner to complete the scoring.
Team: Williamson, Mudd, Sidwell, Millbourn, Welland, Stanley (Paulie), Hayward (Capt), Gibson, Middleton, Giles, Pattinson
Goals: Middleton, Giles, Pattinson, Paulie, Mudd
It would be unfair to single one person out for particular mention following this performance. The Ladies were asked to do a job today and they did it unswervingly. When a question is asked of this squad, they respond time and time again.
Because of other results, the title race is now down to The Ladies and Dudley Utd who play each other a week on Thursday. City know that nothing less than 5 wins from their remaining 5 games will see them land the title but will take each game at a time.
Their busy schedule sees them playing again this Wednesday against Fairfield Villa at Wolston (7pm kick off).
Coventry City Girls 2 - 0 Leamington Lions
League Cup 25/3/10
New Cup....Same Story
The First Team today continued their remarkable run of cup final successes with a fine 2 – 0 victory over Leamington Lions LFC.
Goals either side of the break by Sarah Giles and Sam Pattinson saw The Ladies lift The West Midlands Regional League Cup in front of a large crowd at Copsewood in what was an excellent advertisement for Women’s Football.
After looking a little nervy in the opening 15 minutes, City then settled into their game and played some attractive football. Leamington should be given the utmost credit for playing their part in the final and they could well have found themselves in the lead had it not been for two excellent saves by Coventry keeper Kerry Williamson.
The opening goal came on the half hour mark when a quick interchange of passes down the Coventry left between Abbey Gibson and Shannon Middleton saw the ball crossed over to Sarah Giles who slotted home passed an advancing Lucy Gardner in the Leamington goal.
Coventry then looked more and more composed as the half went on with the City back four dealing with any Leamington advances.
HALF TIME: Leamington Lions 0, Coventry Ladies Development FC 1
During the interval, The Coventry Management issued stern words to the team. The job was only half done. Now they must prepare for an onslaught as Leamington would obviously throw more and more at them as the game progressed.
To their credit, it was City who started the half the livelier and took the game to The Lions. They knew that a one goal cushion is always very fragile and that a second goal would give them an extra bit of breathing space.
In what was turning out to be an epic final, Leamington then pushed on and again, it was the brilliance of Kerry Williamson in the City goal who denied The Lions an equaliser.
City made changes, introducing Chantelle Stanley, Jessica Flint and Lynn Millbourn in place of the hard working Lauren Mochrie, Shannon Middleton and Mel Welland and the changes seem to galvanise the team. They continued to press for a second and, with 25 minutes remaining and The Leamington defence tiring, Sam Pattinson, who had worked tirelessly throughout, forced and error between the Leamington keeper and centre half and then rounded the keeper to force home City’s second.
Leamington worked hard to try and get themselves back into the game but the City back four soaked up everything thrown at them. Amy Sidwell and Charlotte Gassor were towers of strength at the heart of the defence and Lianna Mudd complemented excellently at right back.
Abbey Gibson and skipper Maria Hayward were inspirational in midfield, breaking down Leamington possession time and time again and setting up several City attacks.
As the game moved into added time, City looked in complete control running the clock down as they took the ball into the corners and giving The Lions no way back into the match.
As the whistle blew, it was time for The Ladies to celebrate. In their first season in The West Midlands Regional League, they had lifted the cup.
Team: Williamson, Mudd, Sidwell, Gassor, Welland (Millbourn), Mochrie (Stanley), Hayward (Capt), Gibson, Middleton (Flint), Giles, Pattinson
Subs (Not Used): Roberts, Paulie
Goals: Giles, Pattinson
Our thanks to the League and Match Officials for organising a wonderful day’s football and especially to Leamington Lions FC for playing their part in what can truly be described as an epic final.
Coventry City Girls 3 - 1 Rea Valley
League Cup 7/3/10
A Final Fling
The first team reached the final of the League Cup this afternoon with a victory against a resilient and well organised
Valley are an experienced side who hold their shape nicely and are extremely tough to break down.
To this end, City must be given great credit as they ground out a really commendable performance even if many of them looked and played below their usual standard this afternoon.
City then failed to capitalise on the lead and five minutes later, the scores were level again when a Valley free kick deep in the City half was not dealt with and the visitors’ centre forward was there to push the ball home.
The final 20 minutes of the first half proved a dour and scrappy affair with neither side failing to carve out any significant chances and the sides went in;
HALF TIME:
After a few stern words in the City changing room at half time, City emerged for the second half the brighter of the two teams and chances slowly started to open up for the home side. Debutant Abbey Gibson, Hannah Paulie and Sam Pattinson could all have extended the lead with half chances but failed to do so. Then on 72 minutes, following some excellent work by Jess Flint on the edge of The Valley box, she attempted to cross the ball which was stopped by a defender but with her arm and refer Hill had no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot. Sarah Giles stepped up to the spot and placed the ball beautifully in the corner to the keeper’s left to make the score 2 – 1.
City then stepped up a gear and switched to 4 – 4 – 2 and making several changes. The half chances continued to come and, with 3 minutes remaining, following some good work on the City right the ball broke to Adele Kenny following up on the City left whose cross come shot managed to evade everyone and nestled in the top corner of the
City’s win sees them reach their 4th final in 3 seasons. The probable date is 25 April with Bedworth’s Oval a potential venue. Watch this space for more details.
Team: Williamson,
Goals:
Coventry City Girls 3 - 3 Dudley United
Penalties: Coventry City Girls 3 - 2 Dudley United
League Cup 14/2/10
Quarter Final Success – second time around!
Following last week’s exit in The County Cup, the 1st Team were eager to make amends in what was always going to be a tough League Cup quarter final against Dudley. And this they did with a thrilling penalty shoot out victory after the scores finished level at 3 – 3.
City squandered a 3 goal lead to finish the 90 minutes of normal time level at 3 – 3 and, with the deadlock not being broken in extra time, it was the Sky Blues who maintained their composure under the pressure of a penalty shoot out to set up a home semi – final encounter with Rea Valley Rovers next Sunday.
With Coventry coming out victors in a tough 6 – 4 win earlier in the season, the team knew that they would be in for a difficult encounter and would have to work hard if they were to progress any further. They started off much the brighter of the two teams settling down into a steady rhythm and were good value for their opening goal on 8 minutes when, following some excellent work by Sarah Giles, she crossed for Hannah Paulie to slot home on her debut.
City the upped the tempo even more and in a similar move 10 minutes later, Giles again found Paulie who doubled her goal tally and Coventry’s lead. At this stage, the Sky Blues were rampant and on the half hour mark following a slick interchange of passes, Stevie – Rae Roberts hit a shot which the Dudley keeper couldn’t hold on to and Paulie was on hand to complete a debut hat trick for the club.
This should have marked the end of the end but it actually served to inspire Dudley who finally seemed to spark into life. On 41 minutes, they were awarded a controversial free kick on the edge of the City box. Ruth Graham, the Dudley centre half then ghosted into the box and a pinpoint cross found her head and the ball nestled in the back of the City net.
HALF TIME: COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT 3, Dudley Ladies FC 1
The second half started much as the first half finished with Dudley pressing forward turning the match into a typical cup tie with City being forced deep into their own half for much of the game but countering on the break as Dudley pushed more and more player forward.
Indeed, with the score at 3 – 1, City looked to have sealed the victory as Sarah Giles looked to have fairly rounded Liz Smart, the Dudley centre half and coolly slotted the ball home only to hear the referee’s whistle blow for the game to be pulled back for a foul on the City centre forward.
As Dudley, pushed forward, City began to look more and more vulnerable and on 79 minutes, the Coventry defence switched off and allowed Dudley’s Jo Smith to blast the ball into the roof of the net following a goal mouth scramble.
Dudley now threw everything at Coventry who looked to have done enough to hold onto the lead but, with 2 minutes remaining of normal time, Dudley again broke down the left and with an incisive cross, Mel Welland, who was left with no option whilst trying to clear the ball, found her own net to level the scores.
FULL TIME: COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT 3, Dudley Ladies FC 3
City had squandered 3 goal lead and heads were down. It was left to skipper Maz Hayward to issue a few choice words before the teams turned round for the first period of extra time and her words seemed to be just the tonic as Coventry fought hard in extra time. Neither side found particularly good openings throughout the 30 minutes and any chances were from long range which both keepers dealt with easily.
EXTRA TIME: COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT 3, Dudley Ladies FC 3
As the game went into penalties, it was a case of who wanted it the most and who could cope with the intense pressure. Dudley won the toss and elected to take the first kick. The kick went to Kerry Williamson’s right and looked to be heading into the net but hit the post and bounced back out. Sarah Giles then headed up and coolly slotted the ball home. 0 – 1.
Dudley then slotted home before Sam Pattinson responded and struck a fine penalty to make the score after two penalties each. 1 – 2.
Dudley then scored with their third before City’s hat trick girl, Hannah Paulie, hit a fairly straight penalty which the Dudley keeper managed to get her hands on. After 3 pens. 2 – 2.
Dudley’s fourth taker then hit the ball high over the cross bar to give City an advantage again. Another cool head, Maz Hayward then stepped up and coolly slotted home to keep hold of the advantage to leave the score after 4. 2 – 3.
The pressure on Dudley’s final taker was enormous and with the imposing figure of Kerry Williamson in the City goal, it proved too much as she struck the ball and Williamson dived to her left to save. City had won with 1 penalty to spare.
Team: Williamson, Welland, Millbourn, Mudd (Gassor, 50), Sidwell, Roberts (Kenny, 70), Middleton (Flint , 55), Hayward (capt), Pattinson, Giles, Paulie
Goals: Paulie (3)
Pens: Giles, Pattinson, Hayward – Not Required: Williamson
The whole team battled extremely hard today but particular mention must be given to Kerry Williamson. She made several key saves today and her experience proved invaluable during the penalty shoot out.
Leafield Athletic 0 – 2 Coventry City Girls
County Cup 7/2/10
Out…… But Not Down!
The First Team went out of The County Cup this afternoon at the hands of Combination League based Leafield Athletic Ladies FC but not without a major fight which caused the higher league side countless problems.
City matched Leafield for long periods of the game and deservedly went in goalless at the turn. The Leafield manager could clearly be heard venting his frustration on his charges despite warning managers Walker and Cartwright before the game that there was a major gulf between the two side’s respective leagues. If the Leafield boss is to be believed, then City are playing in a league below where they should be or the Solihull side will need to do plenty to remain in The Combination at the end of the season.
City took 5 minutes to settle but once they got used to the pace of the game, they shared the possession and opportunities which were few and far between. Coventry had a couple of injury problems as the half progressed and it was necessary to make forced changes at half time which were probably responsible for The Girls lack of shape at the start of the second period.
Indeed, within 2 minutes of the turn, City were a goal down due in no small part to a lack of concentration. A Coventry attack broke down and Leafield’s incisiveness cut through The Girls left hand side and a good cross found the home side’s right winger on hand to knock the ball into the back of the net.
It would have been very easy for City to have capitulated at this point but this couldn’t have been further from the truth. The Sky Blues took the game to the home side as the half went on but failed to find the finish which would more than likely have seen them push on for the winner. Coventry’s finishing was lame compared to normal and any shots were easily handled by a less than inspiring home keeper.
Finally, with 10 to go, City’s hopes were killed off when a mix up at the back saw the Leafield centre forward tap a second into the net.
Ladies, you should be proud of yourselves today. You have travelled a long way down the road in just over a season and have today proved that you are more than a match for higher league opposition.
Hold your heads high!
Team: Williamson, Welland, Millbourn (Mudd, 45), Gassor, Sidwell, Middleton, Flint (Roberts, 55), Hayward (capt), Stanley (Kenny, 45), Pattinson, Giles
Coventry City Girls 6 – 0 Atherstone Ladies
County Cup 24/1/10
Happy New Year and it’s nearly February!
Having played only one game since the middle of November, the First Team were desperate to play today’s County Cup game which had already been postponed on no fewer than FOUR occasions.
Their keenness was clear to see as they ran out clear victors in a game which, once Shannon Middleton had scored her and the team’s second, was never really in doubt.
Atherstone are an extremely experienced team and should never be under-estimated. They provided us with excellent opposition on two occasions last season and for a pre-season friendly in August which City won by the odd goal in a nine goal thriller.
Having trained only once in a month due to the poor weather, it was imperative that Coventry let the ball do their work as their fitness was not quite up to its usual standard. And that they did when, on 5 minutes, following some good work by Jessica Flint (who has apparently turned teetotal – me thinks NOT!) she sent a delightful through ball to Shannon Middleton who remained calm and slotted the ball coolly underneath the advancing Adders keeper to break the deadlock.
For the next 25 minutes, City were good value for their lead and played some good football. Stevie-Rae Roberts and Shannon Middleton worked well and linked up on numerous occasions and City played some lovely crisp passing football but could not quite find the final ball to match the standard of their approach play.
The back 3 of Welland, Mudd and Sidwell looked good and it was important that they did not lose their concentration as they had long spells with little to do. On the one occasion that there was a mix-up, Kerry Williamson showed why she is City’s number 1 as she saved well at point blank range.
HALF TIME: COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT FC 1, Atherstone Ladies FC 0
It was made clear to the team at half time that a second goal was a pre-requisite as early as possible in the second half. Despite having the lion’s share of possession in the first half, it would only take one slip to allow The Adders back into the game.
On 54 minutes, following a move of pure simplicity involving Sarah Giles, Maz Hayward and Stevie – Rae Roberts, Shannon Middleton notched her’s and City’s second which finally broke the back of a resilient Atherstone and saw City move into overdrive.
City were now dominant and 7 minutes later, Stevie-Rae Roberts deservedly added her name to the score sheet as Shannon Middleton repaid the compliment with some hard work in the box following a corner on the City right. PS Great celebration Stevie!
Sam Pattinson had replaced the ever industrious Adele Kenny on the left after an hour and this change was quickly followed by Charlotte Gassor coming on for the excellent Shannon Middleton. The changes were made purely to introduce fresh legs as the lack of training was now beginning to show on some players.
Being low in confidence recently, Sam Pattinson went a long way to regain that positivity when, on 71 minutes, following a wonderful headed pass through from Charlotte Gassor, Sam hit through roof of the net to make it 4 – 0.
Lynn Millbourn was introduced at the expense of Lianna Mudd to refresh the defence and, with Atherstone only having one sub who was required early on due to an injury to The Adder’s centre forward, City’s superior fitness now proved unstoppable.
Following fine work by Chantelle Stanley up front Pattinson advanced to score her second and City’s fifth on 85 minutes.
The whole team were now performing as if they had never missed a week and in the dying seconds, it was good to see Sam announce her return to form when she followed up on a Sarah Giles shot to complete a 19 minute hat trick.
Sarah Giles worked her socks off this afternoon and was unlucky not to score. While she may be frustrated not to have scored, it just proves that centre forwards have more in their locker than just goal scoring as she proved a tremendous asset and assistance up front.
Shannon Middleton also excelled and played some delightful balls to add to her two goals and Siddo again displayed her ability to read the game.
A few knocks were picked up along the way this afternoon and an anxious wait now ensues ahead of next weekend’s big cup fixture in the league cup against rivals Dudley.
Details will be posted shortly of the next round of the County Cup. Who knows – it could be Birmingham City!!
Team: Williamson, Welland, Mudd (Millbourn, 60), Sidwell, Roberts, Flint, Hayward (capt), Kenny (Pattinson, 55), Middleton (Pattinson, 60), Stanley, Giles
Goals: Middleton (2), Roberts, Pattinson (3)
Fairfield Villa 0 – 2 Coventry City Girls
League Cup 13/12/09
One Month On
After a month’s lay off due to the miserable weather, the 1st Team marked their return to competitive action today with a 2 – 0 victory away at Fairfield Villa in The League Cup.
On a heavy pitch, City managed to play the ball round extremely well and, if truth be known, could have been 5 up by the break if it hadn’t been for some excellent goal – keeping by the Villa keeper.
Sarah Giles was unlucky not to have secured a first half hat trick and Chantelle Stanley had two good efforts thwarted also. Indeed, it was Stanley who made the breakthrough as early as the fourth minute when, following some good work by the in-form Stevie Rae Roberts on the City right, she crossed the ball and following several rebounds, the ball fell to Stanley to rifle home.
The Ladies were dominant in the first half but could not find the elusive second goal. While the scored remained at only 1 – 0, it was always possible that the home side could catch Coventry on the break.
City lead by the odd goal until the 33rd minute when skipper Maz Hayward produced a telling ball which found Sarah Giles in space. Giles raced free of her two markers and this time, having already seen two efforts saved, she made no mistake and slotted the ball away to make the score 2 – 0 to Coventry.
Several more first half chances followed including one where Stevie Rae Roberts was unlucky not to get more of a head onto a fine cross from Chantelle Stanley and saw her effort go agonisingly wide.
HALF TIME: Fairfield Villa Ladies FC 0, COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT 2
The second half started and City were again guilty of missing a couple of good chances. Sam Pattinson could have had one and Leah O’Loughlin should have taken a little more time when free on goal.
As the half progressed, Fairfield threw more players at the City goal forcing us to revert to a 4 – 4 – 2 from the normal formation. With the defence more solid and as the game moved into its final quarter of an hour, it was City that looked the likeliest to grab a third. Unfortunately it was not to be and the referee blew his final whistle.
Encouragingly, this was City’s first clean sheet since 18 October when they defeated Bedworth 1 – 0 in The County Cup. The defence now looks increasingly assured and, with strength in depth, this should prove a stepping stone to more clean sheets in the weeks to follow
Team: Williamson, Welland (Mudd, 50), Millbourn, Sidwell, Roberts, Flint, Hayward (capt), Kenny (Gassor, 60), Stanley, Giles, Pattinson (O’Loughlin, 55)
Goals: Stanley, Giles
Cottage Farm Rangers 1 – 2 Coventry City Girls
County Cup 15/11/09
The Things That Dreams Are Made Of
After last week’s trip which felt like we were travelling forever and a day, the 1st Team returned to cut and thrust of cup football in Round 2 of The County Cup. These are the days when players need to step up to the mark and play to the best of their ability and that’s exactly what the team did today as they ground out a 2 – 1 victory away at Cottage Farm Rangers.
With skipper Maz Hayward feeling as if she was boiling up with a temperature, changes were made seconds before the start. Chantelle Stanley was asked to fill the void
City took a while to burst into life and it was Cottage Farm who started the brighter in the opening exchanges but after 10 minutes City started to assert some dominance. 24 minutes into the game, keeper, Kerry Williamson kicked long and Leah O’Loughlin flicked on for Sarah Giles. Her first touch was a little heavy but she controlled the ball admirably and drew the keeper out before rounding her and finishing with great composure.
Following the goal,
The first half then finished in dour fashion with neither side wanting to take the game by the scruff of the neck.
HALF TIME: Cottage Farm 1, COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT 1
The City manager’s asked for the pace to be increased in the second half and it took a while for any response. Leah O’Loughlin came close 5 minutes in but was denied by the home team’s keeper who came out bravely. Shortly afterwards, Leah was replaced by Stevie-Rae Roberts who looked sharp. But City couldn’t forge an opening to find a second. With 20 minutes to go, City through caution to the wind and Maz came on to replace the hard-working Lynn Millbourn. With the replacement came a change in formation. Chantelle Stanley went up front alongside Giles and Roberts worked as a link between the middle of the park and the front line.
With the light fading, it didn’t take long before the tactical switch paid dividends when following some good work by Adele Kenny on the left a goalmouth scramble ensued and with the ball bobbling around on the goal line,
It was obvious that Roger White, Cottage Farm’s manager was now going to ask for a super – human effort from his players as he too changed to a more attacking formation but the City defence dealt well with the extra attacker and could have snatched a third on the break on numerous occasions.
Both sides allowed the occasion to get to them and the referee had to step in a couple of times and assert his authority as needle crept in. With the game moving into stoppage time, City were happy to keep possession and take the ball into the corners and with 2 minutes of added time played, the referee blew his whistle for full time.
Team: Williamson, Mudd,
Goals: Giles, Stanley
Leominster Town 1 – 16 Coventry City Girls
Friendly 8/11/09
Fight for Ourselves
The 1st Team crossed three time zones, cleared passport control and recovered from jet lag on their 80 mile minibus trek to Leominster this afternoon. But it was all worthwhile as they broke through the barricades and hit gold and inflicted a humiliating 16 – 1 defeat on their lowly hosts.
Before the match, the team were warned that it was all very well and good raising their game for big matches like Leamington last week, but in an increasingly tight league, it was important that firstly, they secured the 3 points and then, they pushed on to boost their goal difference as much as possible. With teams around them having hit the bottom club for 9 goals already this season, the initial aim was to match this achievement and then push on.
City took the lead as early as the 3rd minute when Chantelle Stanley broke her duck for the club and, from then on, apart from one major lapse in concentration in the City defence, the Ladies were in full flow for the rest of the game. Sarah Giles doubled the lead on 5 minutes and Sam Pattinson made it 3 – 0 on 14 minutes. Stanley scored her second two minutes later before Leominster were given a lifeline when they pumped a long ball forward which wasn’t dealt with in the defence and the Leominster centre forward rushed on to leave Kerry Williamson with no chance.
The conceded goal seemed to give City the kick up the backside they required and with a further goal from Sarah Giles and one each from Leah O’Loughlin and Maz Hayward, City went in at the break
HALF TIME: Leominster Ladies FC 1, COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT FC 7
With half of the job done, it was imperative that Coventry kept the momentum going in the second half. Stevie- Rae Roberts replaced Sam Pattinson and Adele Kenny replaced Jessie Flint who was suffering with the plague. It took The Ladies 5 minutes to be true to their word that they would keep on pushing forward when Leah O’Loughlin had the Leominster defence spinning round and round before firing into the back of the net.
Shannon Middleton then broke her duck for the first team 5 minutes later before O’Loughlin completed her hat-trick almost immediately from the re-start to make it 10 – 1. Lianna Mudd, making her return from injury, replaced O’Loughlin to provide fresh legs on the City right and immediately fired a cross over and, Sarah Giles, acting on instinction, turned to fire home her third of the day.
After some good communication, Stevie-Rae Roberts then weaved her way through the hosts defence to score her first and City’s twelfth before Giles completed her scoring for the day when she notched her fourth.
Chantelle Stanley then completed her hat-trick with a quarter of an hour remaining before Stevie – Rae Roberts scored City’s 15th 8 minutes from time. Shannon Middleton then rounded off the scoring 5 minutes from time.
Our thanks go to Leominster who, where many others would have given in completely, tried to play good football throughout and for the post match hospitality. You are excellent sportswomen who epitomise the game.
Kez, despite the freeze, you did what you had to do this afternoon and hope your Sunday dinner warmed you up.
Ladies, to cut a long story short, as the pilot and the co-pilot on today’s trip, Dave and myself will fly for you anytime. Your football at times was almost like Ballet as Leominster struggled to escape from a Spandau of their own.
Team: Williamson, Welland, Millbourn, Gassor, Middleton, Hayward, Flint (Kenny, 45), Stanley, Giles, Pattinson (Roberts, 45), O’Loughlin (Mudd, 57)
Goal: Stanley (3), Giles (4), Pattinson, O’Loughlin (3), Hayward, Middleton (2), Roberts (2)
Over to you Ms Lewis and Mr A Walker
Coventry City Girls 1 – 1 Leamington Lions
League 1/11/09
A Fair Result
After three recent indifferent performances, it was vital that today’s visit of Leamington Lions saw a change in spirit and one that would see the first team prove that they are capable of holding their own in the league this season.
Both teams went into the game unbeaten and, that is how it would remain at the end of the day as the teams took part in a entertaining 1 – 1 draw.
After heavy overnight and early morning rain, the downpour subsided and gave way to strong winds which played their part in ruining what would have been a thoroughly entertaining game. To be fair, after the first 10 minutes, both teams realised that playing high balls would be a futile exercise as the ball was merely carried into touch.
When the sides played the ball on the deck, it became apparent that this would be a close run encounter and it would probably be the odd goal which would settle it if either side were to come out with the spoils of victory.
City elected to play with Amy Sidwell in a slightly deeper role as sweeper to compensate The Lions strength and pace up front and this worked well. She marshalled the defence well and the four of them really snuffed out any major threat from
With the first half being played predominantly down the City right hand side, Chantelle Stanley was merely a spectator for most of the half. This would however, play somewhat into City’s hands as she had retained plenty of energy for the second half.
With 10 minutes of the half remaining, it was
HALF TIME:
Now would prove to be City’s strongest test of the season as they needed to come from behind against one of the strongest sides in the league.
Following previous performances, City were somewhat of an unknown quantity but, pick themselves up they did. Skipper Maz Hayward marshalled her troops well and made sure that spirits didn’t drop. The girls had played equally as well as
Chantelle Stanley now began to come into the game and, time and time again, teased the
Charlotte Gassor replaced Adele Kenny after 10 minutes of the half at left back to provide fresh legs. The fresh legs obviously had some impact as, with 15 minutes of the second half gone, some fine work by Jessie Flint found Sarah Giles who rifled a shot over Lions’ keeper Lucy Gardner and into the back of the net for City’s equaliser.
Again, City refreshed the line up with Leah O’Loughlin replacing Sam Pattinson up front and Stevie-Rae Roberts replacing the tireless Shannon Middleton at right midfield. Mel Welland continues to impress in The City defence with another fine performance.
Indeed, it was City who came closest to steeling the game deep into stoppage time when some fine work from Stanley and O’Loughlin saw Sarah Giles through on goal whose shot went agonisingly wide of the right hand upright with the Lions keeper helpless.
With hardly any time to re-start the referee blew his whistle.
Team: Williamson,
Goal: Giles
On reflection, a draw was ultimately a fair result for these two top of the table teams. Both teams preserved their unbeaten record and, looking at this game, it is fair to say that both teams will be in the mix at the top of the table come season end.
Knowle Ladies 1 – 2 Coventry City Girls
League 25/10/09
1st Team Win - Just!
The 1st Team returned to league action this afternoon and just managed to ease past Knowle, winning by 2 goals to 1.
In a scrappy performance, a first half goal by Sam Pattinson following some fine work by Jessie Flint and Chantelle Stanley should have settled the team down. Instead, they couldn’t take hold of the game and wasted many opportunities to play their regular quality football. Long balls were played time and time again when simple short balls would have been much more profitable.
The one player who really shone was Mel Welland on her first start for the team. She played with a great deal of maturity for her age knowing when to play safe or when to start new attacks. She is certainly a player to watch over the coming seasons.
HALF TIME: Knowle LFC 0, COVENTRY LADIES DEVELOPMENT FC 1
Despite warnings at half time, City continued in the second half as they finished the first (headless chicken). They did however, create several openings but, as in previous weeks, were guilty of squandering the chances.
The Knowle keeper was lucky to stay on the field as she blatantly upended Sarah Giles. Being the last player, she should have seen red but the referee saw fit to do nothing more than give the free kick. Ten minutes later, and justice was somewhat done when City did win a penalty. Giles did slot the kick home to double The Ladies’ lead.
City’s other debutant, and at 16 years and 1 day, probably the youngest player ever to play in the league, Sofia Walker had an impressive game and, after making a fine save at the feet of the Knowle centre forward in the last minute, could do nothing about the shot which found the top left hand corner.
Team:
Goal: Pattinson, Giles (Pen)
Coventry City Girls 1 – 0 Bedworth United
Birmingham FA County Cup 18/10/09
Back to Form
The 1st Team returned to winning ways this afternoon with a 1 – 0 victory over our nearest rivals, Bedworth United LFC, in The Birmingham FA Women’s County Cup.
Prior to the game, City had several injury and illness concerns and it is safe to say that over 50% of the 1st Team squad were suffering in one way or another. It is testament to the squad and the reserve team players who stepped up that they came out of the tie with a victory and truth be known, the score line should have been more emphatic if chances had been taken.
The only goal of the game came on 4 minutes when a move started by Lynn Millbourn was finished in great fashion by Sarah Giles. For the next 25 minutes City should have put the game out of the reach of Bedworth but, as has been the way in the past couple of weeks, they could not capitalise on the many openings they made for themselves.
With the score line staying at only 1 – 0, the door was always open for the visitors to get back into the game. With Kerry Williamson currently on holiday and following an admin error, City found themselves with no recognised keeper for the tie. That said, credit must be given to Laura Greatrex who stepped up to the plate and praise should be given to her and the back four for the strength they showed as the pressure was increased on them.
Adele Kenny continues her resurgence at left back. Her pace and strength are as strong as ever but her vision of the game has improved enormously over the past few weeks. Mention must also be given to Maz Hayward and Jessie Flint, Hayward playing with food poisoning and Jessie Flint playing with a highly suspect knee. They closed down wonderfully throughout in the middle of the park until Flint finally succumbed 20 minutes from time. Her replacement, Mel Welland looked completely at home on her 1st team debut as did Roxy Kinsella, making her first appearance for the team this season.
All in all, considering the amount of problems in the team this week, the result was thoroughly deserved and also highlights the strength in depth of the club as a whole.
Team: Greatrex, Gassor, Millbourn, Sidwell, Kenny, Roberts, Hayward, Flint (Welland, 70), Middleton (Kinsella, 65), Giles, Stanley (Pattinson, 60)
Goal: Giles
For the record, the following were all suffering prior to the match;
Lianna Mudd (Toe), Gemma Clark (knee ligaments), Amy Sidwell (Flu), Maz Hayward (Food poisoning), Jessie Flint (Knee), Sam Pattinson (Ankle), Charlotte Gassor (Calf) and Kerry Williamson was on holiday. 8 out of the regular 17 1st teamers.
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Corby S&L 4 – 0 Coventry City Girls
FA Cup 11/10/09
FA Cup Woe
The 1st Team were unceremoniously dumped out of The FA Cup by a strong Corby S & L side this afternoon by a score of 4 – 0.
For 45 minutes however, The Ladies matched the home side until injuries to 2 key players forced changes to formation which cost the side dearly. That said, in the second half, too many players left their positivity in the dressing room and, at a time when they should have dug deep into their resources, they capitulated and let the opposition have too much time on the ball, failed to make 50/50 balls and were found wanting in aerial battles.
The game started brightly with
On the 40 minute mark, Sam Pattinson, who had previously tormented the
HALF TIME: Corby S & L FC 1,
At half time, City’s injury woes were compounded with Lianna Mudd being forced to withdraw through a broken toe and thus causing another major re-think.
The new formation was however more than capable of turning the score-line around and it was emphasised to the team, how important the next goal was. The side that came out for the second half though was a completely different City and one that hasn’t been seen for a long, long time and it was no real surprise to see
In itself, in the past, this has not phased
Team: Williamson, Mudd (Clarke, 45), Millbourn, Sidwell, Kenny, Stanley, Cartwright, Gassor (Greatrex, 70), Middleton, Giles, Pattinson (Roberts, 40)
Positives
An impressive performance from Adele Kenny who was solid and reliable at left back.
Hopefully, the kick up the backside that makes people realise they can’t take winning for granted.
Negatives
The disappointment of seeing too many usually good players failing to perform simultaneously. You can cope with one or two players having an off day but not this many.
Heads dropping and positive attitudes being discarded too easily. You have your chance next week to make a team suffer a severe backlash from today’s performance – make sure you do!
Coventry City Girls 6 – 2 Ferndale Ladies
League 4/10/09
Six of the Best
The 1st Team continued their unbeaten start to the season and warmed up for next week’s FA Cup clash at Corby with a resounding 6 – 2 victory at home to Ferndale Ladies this afternoon.
First half goals from Sam Pattinson, two from Sarah Giles and a first goal in City colours for centre-half Amy Sidwell saw Coventry go in four goals to the good at half time.
With Charlotte Gassor suffering a calf problem, changes were made early in the second half which disrupted The Ladies flow and saw Ferndale ease their way back in to the game. The visitors scored two goals in less than a minute before Leah O’Loughlin eased the pressure somewhat with a clinically finished goal.
Having done the hard work once more, City then almost let Ferndale into the game once more when they conceded a penalty only to see keeper Kerry Williamson pull off a fine double save before the ball was eventually cleared.
With 5 minutes remaining, the game was finally put beyond the reach of the visitors when Sarah Giles completed her hat trick and saw Coventry run out 6 – 2 winners to maintain their position at the top of the table.
Team: Williamson, Mudd, Millbourn (Clarke, 50), Sidwell, Gaffney, Roberts (O’Loughlin, 60), Cartwright, Gassor (Kenny, 50), Middleton, Giles, Pattinson
Goals: Giles (3), Pattinson, Sidwell, O’Loughlin
Fairfield Villa 0 – 3 Coventry City Girls
League 27/9/09
One Year On
The 1st Team continued their impressive start to the season with a 3 – 0 victory away at Fairfield Villa. Two goals in the first quarter of an hour and one 20 minutes from time saw Coventry preserve their unbeaten status and means that they are now unbeaten in league football for exactly a year.
City started brightly and controlled the midfield from the off with Gemma Clarke, deputising for the injured Jessica Flint alongside skipper Maria Hayward. Shannon Middleton switched from her usual right wing to the left allowing Stevie – Rae Roberts her first start of the season on the right wing. City were probably guilty of using the left hand side too much and became a little predictable with Roberts being left unmarked on her own for long periods of time.
The first goal came 7 minutes into the game when Sam Pattinson found herself in some room on the edge of the box and her cross come shot avoided everyone and nestled in the back of the net. City now started to look good for their lead but a second goal was always necessary to give them a cushion and allow themselves to settle. The second goal came on the quarter hour mark when Shannon Middleton, who at one stage, looked to have lost control of the ball completely, beat four players before threading a delightful ball through to Sarah Giles who kept her composure to net calmly past the Villa keeper.
It was now imperative that the City defence kept their concentration and didn’t concede before the half time whistle. Kerry Williamson was inspirational in The City goal and her presence proved to be the difference on several occasions pulling off key saves and being in the right place at the right time. The one occasion that Fairfield did find the back of the net, following a momentary defensive lapse was ruled offside and City reached the half way point leading 2 – 0.
The second half started and City lost their way somewhat. It was apparent that a change was necessary with Kaylee Gaffney coming on at left back. With the in-form Amy Sidwell moving into the middle alongside the ever dependable Lynn Millbourn and Charlotte Gassor moving into the middle alongside Hayward, Clarke, who had given her all, left the field. The extra energy proved to be the tonic required. Five minutes later, the impressive Roberts made way for Chantelle Stanley who moved to the left and Middleton switching to the right. The two substitutions proved to be what was required and City looked more resolute.
On the hour mark, Kaylee Gaffney knocked a delightful through ball on to Sam Pattinson. Sam still had quite a bit to do at this stage, but she turned her marker well and with the keeper advancing, hit a sweet shot onto the underside of the bar and watched on as the ball fell behind the line to give Coventry a deserved three goal lead. Leah O’Loughlin replaced Shannon Middleton with 20 minutes remaining to give City a new prong of attack. Fairfield now switched to a 3 – 5 – 2 formation as they pushed for a goal but Sidwell and Millbourn looked extremely comfortable at the heart of the City defence and, although creating several opportunities, Villa never really looked like scoring as the game finished.
Team: Williamson, Mudd, Gassor, Millbourn, Sidwell, Roberts (Stanley, 55), Clarke (Gaffney, 50), Hayward (capt), Middleton (O’Loughlin, 70), Giles, Pattinson
Goals: Pattinson (2), Giles
Coventry City Girls 6 – 4 Dudley United
League 20/9/09
The First Win – And The Giles of old is back with a vengeance!
In their first home match of the season, Coventry Ladies Development faced table-topping Dudley Athletic and dismissed them back to The Black Country pointless.
Goals from Sarah Giles (3), Sam Pattinson (2) and skipper Maz Hayward saw the 1st Team run out 6 – 4 winners in a physical end to end game that saw Coventry stand face – to – face with a top team for the third week running and remain unbeaten.
Apologies for the shortened match report this week. I promise it will be back to normal next week when I’m out of the sty!
I would like to apologise unreservedly for any offence taken by comments in yesterday’s match report. Being married to a woman from Walsall, I have shared many a joke with her and her family about their origin and they the same with me. I have a lot of time for Walsall folk and said what I said in affection rather than in malice.
Sorry again.
Jamie
Walsall Ladies 1 – 1 Coventry City Girls
League 13/9/09
Consolidation – With more than a little bad luck
The Ladies travelled to newly relegated Walsall for their second league match of the season – and proved they were more than a match for their more experienced hosts with a 1 – 1 draw. Indeed, they were more than a little unlucky not to come away from Walsall with their first league victory of the season having been deprived only by some extremely dubious refereeing.
In sharp contrast to last week, City were quickly out of the traps and hit their hosts hard from the off. Shannon Middleton tormented the Walsall defence time and time again with her weaving runs and delivered some delightful crosses which were unfortunate not to find a Coventry boot.
Walsall appeared totally bemused by The Ladies’ skill and, for vast periods of the first half had no answer to the questions City continually posed. Sarah Giles, while still to find the back of the net, continues to link up well with Sam Pattinson up front and both will, without doubt hit the back of the net on numerous occasions this season. Indeed, half an hour into the first half, Giles almost delivered the opening blow as she rattled the Walsall woodwork.
The confidence and belief in the squad has grown enormously over the last week following a tough training session mid week and they continually show immense support to each other when their backs are against the wall. Maz Hayward and Jess Flint look extremely strong and tenacious in the middle of the park and with Amy Sidwell and Lianna Mudd linking up well with Shannon Middleton and Adele Kenny respectively on the two wings, it will only be a matter of time before someone falls foul to Coventry’s strength.
The half time whistle blew with the deadlock still to be broken but it was felt that it would only be a matter of time before The Ladies took the lead. It took them a while to regain their shape after the break but once they did, Walsall again looked under the cosh as Coventry continued to press.
On the 65th minute however, City were victim to some extremely harsh refereeing. Kerry Williamson looked to have collected a through ball cleanly but, as she did so, the Walsall centre forward up-ended the keeper who, lying helpless on the floor, watched as the Walsall forward kicked the ball into the back of the net. All expected the referee to blow for a blatant foul on the keeper but, instead, awarded the goal with Williamson lying in pain on the floor.
Despite Coventry’s protestations, which saw Maz Hayward booked, the referee would have nothing of it and the goal stood. At this point, having given so much, The Ladies could have capitulated and fallen victim to a hatful. Instead, as they have done so many times in the past, they proved that they will be a force to be reckoned with this season and continued to press for a deserved equaliser. The Ladies looked galvanised and with Lynn Millbourn and Gemma Clarke standing firm at the heart of the defence, City pushed on.
Shannon Middleton picked the ball up on the Coventry right and played a delightful ball to the overlapping Lianna Mudd. She delivered a wicked cross which Sarah Giles flicked on to find Sam Pattinson charging in at the far post to hit the back of the net to give City a well earned equaliser.
With the goal, City could have sat back and seen out time. But they will not do that. Leah O’Loughlin replaced the hard working Adele Kenny and Stevie-Rae Roberts replaced Gemma Clark as City went 4 – 3 – 3 and pushed for the win. If truth be known, they probably should have got that winner as Leah O’Loughlin stole a march on her marker and latched onto a cross, ran 10 yards and coolly slotted home only to look round and see the linesmen had pulled her up for off-side. Again, the decision looked a little harsh but, as the clock ran down and frustration set in, it became clear that it wasn’t to be there day and they had to settle for a second consecutive draw.
Team: Williamson, Mudd, Clarke (Roberts, 70), Millbourn, Sidwell, Middleton, Hayward, Flint, Kenny (O’Loughlin, 65), Giles, Pattinson.
Goal: Pattinson (75)
Ladies – I am so proud of you today. You can hold your heads high after the performance you delivered. In times of adversity, you carry yourself with distinction. Teams are starting to see that we have the makings of a quality team. You should ALL be extremely pleased with the quality of football you played on a difficult pitch. Decisions will go against you at times but over a season, they’ll balance themselves out. Your now unbeaten in the league for 50 weeks. That’s an achievement that NO OTHER TEAM in the area can boast. Enjoy your success.
Birmingham Athletic 1 – 1 Coventry City Girls
League 6/9/09
A Solid Start
Coventry Ladies 1st Team started their new league campaign in solid fashion with a hard fought and well earned point away from home against Birmingham Athletic. Indeed, after falling behind in the 25th minute, The Ladies equalised in the second half and could have gone on to snatch all 3 points as Athletic tired in the last quarter of the game.
Despite all the warnings that the league would be much more physical than last season, City started somewhat like startled rabbits and took the first quarter of an hour to settle in any form of a stride. Gradually as the half progressed, City began to look more at ease and began to pass the ball around and force Athletic to chase the game. It was somewhat against the run of play when Birmingham took the lead on the 25 minute mark following some sloppy marking allowing the Athletic right-wing to cut inside and lay a ball off to their centre forward who finished well.
The Ladies were warned prior to kick off that chances would be less frequent this season and they should capitalise on any that fell their way. They did have a couple of half chances which could have been slotted away, both Sam Pattinson and Sarah Giles coming close. As the half went on, Coventry began to exert their influence more and more and were unlucky to go in one down at the break as they began to acclimatise to the pace and physicality of their new surroundings.
The second half started and, with Coventry now playing downhill, they really began to take control. Lianna Mudd had been nursing a knee injury sustained half way through the first half and with 5 minutes of the second half gone, it was obvious that she could take no further part. Amy Sidwell switched to right back, Adele Kenny dropped to left back and Sam Pattinson to left wing to make way for Leah O’Loughlin alongside Sarah Giles and within five minutes, she had made her mark in the most positive fashion.
She collected the ball following good work from Middleton and Pattinson and, similar to her goal in last season’s cup final against Solihull, she beat 3 defenders before volleying the ball past the helpless Athletic keeper to give Coventry the goal they had thoroughly deserved. For the next quarter of an hour, Athletic appeared to tire more and more. However, they had 3 substitutes on the bench and the fresh legs were unleashed with a quarter of an hour to go. For the last 15 minutes, The Ladies soaked up the pressure well with Maz Hayward and Jessie Flint heading up a rearguard effort alongside the tireless Charlotte Gassor and Lynn Millbourn.
With 15 to go, Stevie-Re Roberts replaced Sarah Giles who had given her all and as the game opened, both sides could have gone on to claim all 3 points. As it was, they had to settle for a point which, on the balance of things, was a fair reflection of the game and saw Coventry claim their first point of the season. The Ladies, after settling in the first quarter of an hour, looked completely at home at the higher level and, were given words of re-assurance from The Athletic Manager who said that with form like that, they should have no trouble maintaining their status this season.
Team: Williamson, Mudd (O’Loughlin, 55), Gassor, Millbourn, Sidwell, Middleton, Hayward, Flint, Kenny, Giles (Roberts, 75), Pattinson.
Goal: O’Loughlin (60)Nuneaton Ladies 0 – 6 Coventry City Girls
Friendly 2/9/09
On a night that was more suited to ark building, Coventry rounded an unbeaten pre-season with a 6 – 0 demolition of local rivals Nuneaton Borough. Coventry took their time to score the first goal but it was patently obvious to anyone watching that the first goal would open the flood gates.
Indeed, it was well into the 45th minute when Maz Hayward picked up a loose ball in the Borough box, switched it onto her left foot and calmly slotted home. Prior to this, Coventry had enjoyed the majority of possession and had played some delightful football which on another day would have seen them well ahead when Hayward slotted home.
Adele Kenny and Amy Sidwell have started to develop a good understanding on the left hand side and time and time again following good balls from Sidwell, Kenny tormented the Borough right back before whipping some excellent crosses across the face of the home side’s defence. The only thing lacking was the final touch with Coventry appearing tense in front of goal. Jessica Flint tonight showed glimpses of her old self and her tenacity in the heart of the City midfield was instrumental in much of Coventry’s approach play.
Coventry’s defence rarely looked troubled and it was compliment to them that on the odd occasion that Borough did get through that they kept their concentration and cleared their lines easily. Lianna Mudd settled as the game went on and by the time the second half started, looked to be back to the form she had displayed in City’s championship winning season.
Shannon Middleton continues to impress and showed her ability to be able to play on both sides of the park in the final 20 minutes as she switched to the left hand side. A second goal from Maz Hayward and goals from Stevie-Rae Roberts, Sam Pattinson (2) saw City 5 – 0 up.
By far the best goal of the night was saved until last when following some good approach play, Pattinson turned on a sixpence before laying the ball off to Middleton who coolly slotted home her second and Coventry’s sixth.
Following a slow start in their 0 – 0 draw with Stafford, City have found their goal scoring form netting 11 in their last two games without the holidaying Sarah Giles who top scored last season with 50 goals. Equally as impressive tonight was the fact that Coventry’s defence, marshalled by keeper Kerry Williamson, kept a clean sheet.
Sunday sees the long awaited start to The West Midland League season with The Ladies travelling away to Birmingham Athletic Ladies for a 2pm kick off at Moor Lane.
Again, congratulations to the reserves for an equally impressive 5 – 0 victory in only their second game together.
Atherstone Ladies 4 – 5 Coventry City Girls
Friendly 30/8/09
On a bitterly cold and wet, Sunday afternoon, Coventry returned to Atherstone to play their old sparring partners in a friendly. Over the past season, strong links have been made between the two teams and both sides were only too happy to play each other.
Many old rivalries were re-visited in this game and it was played in an extremely competitive manner from the start. Coventry started much the brighter and looked good value for money when they took the lead through Adele Kenny. The ball broke free to the advancing left back who coolly slotted the ball past the Adders’ keeper on the quarter hour mark.
Coventry took the opportunity to play several new faces in this season’s team. Rose McAleer, Sofia Walker and Naomi Greene made their debuts and Sinead Byrne and Roxy Kinsella returned to the fold. The aim of this match was to give everyone an equal chance to impress which meant several players playing out of their regular positions. Amy Sidwell found herself playing alongside Maz Hayward in the Coventry midfield and settled well to show what a good signing she has been in the closed season.
Shannon Middleton, another new signing in the 1st team, continues to impress and looks an extremely daunting figure as she runs at the opposition. On 25 minutes, Coventry fell victim to Atherstone’s sucker punch when they switched off during a dead ball move and, as they did last season, the Adders equalised. Not content with equalising, they then pushed on again and, with Coventry sleeping, they nosed in front.
Coventry are now made of stronger resolve, as they must be during this newly promoted season, and countered quickly when Shannon Middleton re-acted quickly to an Adele Kenny short corner before being bundled over in the box. Sam Pattinson stepped up to the plate and coolly slotted home to see Coventry go in 2 – 2 at the break.
Coventry again started the second half brightly and quickly found themselves 3 – 2 up when Roxy Kinsella struck a delightful shot across the face of goal. Further changes were made with Roberts and Greene replacing O’Loughlin – who was provided with a starting berth - and McAleer. Rose played extremely well up front and showed some wonderful touches as she looked to tee up opportunities for others and could prove a good link between midfield and the forward line.
Shortly after, following a hand-ball in the box, City were awarded a second penalty and, with Sam Pattinson off the pitch, skipper Maz Hayward stepped up and drilled the ball into the roof of the net to put Coventry 4 – 2 up. With 10 minutes remaining, The Ladies pushed on and Naomi Greene found herself 1 on 1 with the Atherstone keeper. The keeper stayed big and parried Greene’s shot straight into the path of the advancing Stevie-Rae Roberts who kept her composure and rounded the keeper to hit a sweet left foot shot into the Atherstone goal to make the score 5 – 2.
Sofia Walker had replaced Kerry Williamson with 20 minutes remaining and had made a couple of good saves on her debut. There was little she could have done about two Atherstone free kicks though as the game moved into stoppage time. Both of them were placed into the far corner to make the final score Atherstone 4, Coventry Ladies Development 5.
Thanks must be extended to Atherstone for the hospitality and Coventry look forward to playing them in The West Midlands League next season.
Stafford Town 0 - 0 Coventry City Girls
Friendly 23/8/09
The Ladies made their return to football this afternoon at the start of the new season with a friendly away at Stafford Town.
Stafford finished in third place in The West Midlands League – North last season, scoring over 100 goals in 22 games. This was obviously going to be a stern test for a new look team but one that could be a wonderful confidence boost if they could come away with a creditable result. This they did and indeed, they can count themselves extremely unfortunate not to come away with a victory after controlling the game for long periods and defending resolutely for the last quarter of an hour as the home side pressed for victory.
Coventry started the game brightly and, despite having several new faces in key positions, could and indeed should have been at least one goal up within the first ten minutes. Shannon Middleton, replacing the America bound Lauren Mochrie on the right in midfield looked completely at home and tormented the Stafford defence as she ran at them time and time again.
Amy Sidwell and the returning Jo Ryan, both fresh additions to the new look team settled quickly and linked up on numerous occasions, playing some delightful balls through to the Coventry forward line.
Adele Kenny entered the field on the half hour mark with Jo Ryan pushing up-field and settled quickly using a quick turn of pace to skip past the Stafford defence. The Ladies were guilty of squandering several gilt-edged chances and must polish up their shooting before the season starts. On another day, the wasted chances could cost them dearly as the opposition may not be so lacklustre in the future.
Maz Hayward and Jessie Flint looked at home in the middle of the park with Hayward coming close on a couple of occasions with free-kicks from just outside the box. Gemma Clarke looked solid at the heart of the Coventry defence alongside the ever-reliant Charlotte Gassor with Lianna Mudd making up the back four in front of Kerry Williamson.
With Sarah Giles still away on holiday, Stevie-Rae Roberts and Leah O’Loughlin shared the front line duties alongside Sam Pattinson and could and should have done better on several occasions but were caught off-side – something they should really have learnt their lessons over last season.
That said, Coventry were the better side on the day and, with three games still to go before the league campaign commences, the positives far outweighed the negatives on the day. With a little bit of fine-tuning, The Ladies have the possibility of having an extremely good season. The ultimate compliment came at the end of the game when a comment was heard from The Stafford Ladies that that was the hardest game they had played for over a season – praise indeed!
Mention should also be given to The Reserve Team who, in playing their first ever competitive game, totally demolished Stafford reserves 6 -1. Well done to them