Another U16s Performance match rolled around this weekend, with a home game vs Surbiton Rangers. However, this time we ventured up to the boy's pitch, which many think is a lot nicer, but the girls say they “don’t like as it’s way too big”- which was new information to me as I didn't know we had two different sized pitches!

With the girls knowing they were playing Surbiton they all showed signs of nervousness, probably due to Surbiton reputation, but after a motivational speech and one of the girls saying, “they don’t look very good, it definitely isn’t their A team, so we can win this” they all perked up. A high intensity warm up was had and after lots of cheering from the parents on the sidelines they were ready to go.

The girls started off very strongly, dominating the game right from the first whistle. With a very high and organized press, the girls were able to pick the balls off from 16s very well, which led to us having many attacking opportunities. Our first goal came from some very nice teamwork with Florence setting the ball up in the perfect position for Ellie to finish it in the net- which she did! Then Florence continued this high standard performance with a lovely individual goal which took us up to 2-0.

Maria then started being put under pressure after these two goals, with Surbiton stretching the pitch and leaving a player on the baseline. After some team play from Surbiton and a great initial save from Maria, they were awarded a penalty flick, which was finished nicely by the Surbiton centre forward. The team's friendship and bond were really shown after Grace made 3 amazing goal line saves just before the half time whistle. Everyone was cheering and congratulating her, with even the opposition coach saying how impressive those saves were!

Half time led to the girls realizing they were dominating the game and we came out with a newfound surge of energy. The defenders were pushing up high and making some great attacking chances, whilst the mids and forwards were working so hard to track back if needed. A great tackle and early ball from Carla led to a great goal being scored from the baseline by Sophie. Then the pressure continued with Ellie winning the ball at the 23 and attacking the goal at pace, drawing the keeper out, taking the ball wide and slotting it into the bottom corner. This scoring streak was concluded with a lovely interception being made by Sophie, who made a strong through ball into the D to Ellie, and with the help of Aviyah it was slotted in the goal.

The game was ended at an incredible 6-1 win, with each player having made a huge impact on the game in one form or another. Everyone should be really proud of their performance and look to next week as we host London Wayfarers.