Women’s 6s 1 - 2 Ashford (Middx) 1s (A)
By Niamh Wilson
What a start to the 24/25 season for the 6s. A strong beginning when we received a message from Sinead outing people for being late at 11:06... six minutes after our meet time - whoops! However, is snitching really worth a fine? Finally, with a little help from location sharing for Hutch, we had all successfully arrived, even after a wrong turn from Captain Sammy on the way to the game (I reckon that's definitely a fine)! Tish led us through the best warm-up I've ever participated in, and we made it on to the pitch.
The game started, game faces on and goals the only thing on our minds. Although, I think I took that a little too literally as first goal of the game was an own goal from yours truly. Instead of panicking, my immediate reaction was to inform Sammy that I did, in fact, score a goal before Val - so can I keep my shirt number? Luckily a long corner was awarded and the game continued. Despite Fi's sore ankle, she decided to stop the ball on the line with it. What a soldier. Hutch then pulled through and smoothly saved a penalty stroke like it was nothing, much like rest of her saves in the game. In her words "no point stressing" - we should all follow suit.
Alas, with our fitness levels not quite on par with theirs, a few breakaways were made from Ashford and soon enough they were 2-0 up. Half time was called but spirits were still high. Some Tangfastics and a fabulous team talk later, we were back out, raring to go. Hutch's calm and collected attitude continued throughout the game, with saves being made left, right and centre. Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the other team as they received a green card for not keeping their cool. Once again, they should've taken a leaf out of Hutch's book.
We certainly held our own in the second half, playing much better compared to the first. Some amazing runs from our forwards, and after what felt like a lifetime and many little back and forths between the goalie and our team, we got a goal from Iona! Wasn't the most stylish goal (sorry Iona), but style doesn't get us points and hey, a goal's a goal. Well done Iona! Feeling good, we carried on.
Unfortunately no more goals were scored, but we persisted. Ellie turned into Chewbacca when calling for the ball - all very intense. Lila and Seren, both determined, dribbled through passing several of their players. Some more shots on goal, but regrettably the full time whistle went and that was the end of the game. We won the second half and will certainly have them next time! A quick Wiggles the Caterpillar cake on the side of the pitch for Becky's birthday. Better blow out those candles quick!
Moving into the clubhouse for a scrumptious match tea of lasagne, and of course some Wiggles, we could finally relax. I think the final straw for me was getting DOD. Thanks ladies!
Big shoutout to the entire team for an enjoyable day, even with the unfortunate loss, and can't wait to have a win in the future!