Belles energetic in good win

Under the sunshine at Newbold and the Belles without a few players due to injuries and unavailability. We knew it was going to be a tough game, however we still had a strong squad of 12, with Starlah playing her first game for the Belles.

A shuffle in the starting line up, saw Monica partner Darcy at centre back and Ava S starting at right back.

The game started quickly for the Belles as the pacey Eliza slammed a shot against the cross bar but she did the opening goal. Oliwia picked the ball up and played a perfect pass to Eliza who raced through to slot home. It was Captain Caitlin's turn to thread a ball through to Elcie but her shot was blocked.

The game was being played at a great pace considering the warm weather as the opposition broke clear, however Darcy was there to shield the ball and play it forward.

The opposition got an equaliser slightly against the run of play. A ball over the top saw Esme get there first but her clearance deflected off the forward and rolled into the net. Very harsh on Esme who showed great bravery to get there.

That said at halftime we re-grouped as the girls got a well deserved break.

The second half began and the Belles continued to push forward in search of another goal. Eliza ran into the channel and sent a cross into the box as Elcie volleyed into the corner. A really well worked goal and shows how well the Eliza and Elcie partnership was grown.

Defensively the Belles were tenacious, Monica was stepping out of defence to press, winning the ball numerous times. At left back Zoe stood the winger up and made an excellent challenge.

The midfield duo of Caitlin and Oliwia, were everywhere in and out of possession. Caitlin bravely chased back and blocked a forward pass and Oliwia skipped through and her cross just couldn't be converted by Elcie.

Maisie intercepted a pass out wide and also Starlah made a forward run as the Belles remarkably continued to get forward.

Ava S collected the ball at right back, she surged past two players nearly running the full length of the pitch! Iris played a neat one-two as her inviting cross was cleared.

Darcy showed strength to reach the ball and sent a pass for Eliza to chase, she showed tremendous strength to get to the ball and hold off two players. She then played a pass into Elcie who brilliantly finished for her second and the Belles third of the game!

As the game was drawing to a close, Esme caught a whipped in cross which demonstrates her confidence and commanding presence. There was nearly a fourth Belles goal as Elcie's attempt was saved by the goalkeeper but the ball was very close to crossing the line, as the defence cleared after pressure from Eliza.

The full time whistle went with the Belles putting so much effort in the performance. In and out of possession they worked so hard in the hot conditions and we were very good value for the win. Defensively we were solid, the midfield was energetic and of course in attack we are seeing combinations and fantastic understanding.

Player of the Match went to the whole team! Every single player contributed with many playing an unfamiliar role with great effect to help the team! Well done Belles!

On the day, the coaching staff were joined by Lols, who suffered a nasty ankle injury on Friday. Wishing her a speedy recovery!