Esme Magnificent In Draw

An away trip to the current champions, in the sunshine on a 3G surface awaited the Belles. We were looking to bounce back after a disappointing defeat in our last league game, but we knew it was going to be a tough game against strong opposition.

Numbers were stretched again with Evie, Amie, Monica, Iris, Lols and Eliza being unavailable. That said we had Sydney and Ava L available and Lois returned to Belles action.

The game started and it was an even affair, the opposition struck a shot wide and up the other end Sydney let fly with a shot that whistled wide.

There were lots of battles all over the pitch, Zoe at left back remained determined against their tricky winger. With Darcy at right wing bursting forward at every opportunity against the defender.

Esme was called into action as she tipped a shot onto the post, then not long after a thumping long range effort was remarkably tipped over the bar by her.

As the first half grew older it was clear that the Belles were going to have to be disciplined and determined defensively. Ava L, showed tremendous strength to block a pass then cleared with Lois also blocking a goal bound effort.

Captain Caitlin and Oliwia were tasked with sitting in midfield and were doing a brilliant job to allow Sydney to support Elcie.

Another opposition shot went wide with Esme making not one but two clearances in succession. Some lovely two touch play saw the Belles break from defence as Oliwia's shot was gathered by the goalkeeper. Ava S then burst through but the goalkeeper rushed out to block her attempt.

The halftime whistle went to allow the Belles to regroup. It was clear that they will have to continue to work hard but also try to be confident in possession as there were instances where the Belles were causing issues with their quick counter attacking moves.

Again the second half started and it was an even affair, Ava H who slotted into left back dealt with their winger well. Then a free kick by Scarlet, nearly dropped to a Belles player.

Up the other end Esme made a great low save as the Belles remained calm and compact to deal with the opposition.

Lola C anticipated a loose ball, showing brilliant strength to hold off the opposition player. Then Darcy charged through and her cross dropped to the far post but the Belles just couldn't capitalize.

An opposition shot cannoned off the cross bar, then Lois followed by Ava L bravely dealt with the rebound to clear.

Not long after, Elcie managed to turn her marker and seemed to have been pushed over for a stonewall penalty. However the referee didn't agree! Very harsh with Elcie working hard throughout the game.

The Belles players were switching positions to help as the game was drawing to a close. Then Esme made an unbelievable save in the dying moments to ensure that the Belles got a well deserved point for their incredible efforts!

It wasn't pretty at times against one of the strongest teams in our league and the defending league champions. However, the Belles were good value for the draw due to their determination, team work and compactness. Several players played in different positions, Ava S, Ava H, Darcy, Elcie, Scarlet and Oliwia all doing their jobs with excellent effect.

Defensively they were strong, a big shout out to Zoe, Lola C, Lois and Ava L who were all fantastic. Captain Caitlin and Oliwia were asked to sit in midfield to allow Sydney to support the attack, which worked very well.

Player of the Match - Esme

With all the good performances from the Belles there was one name that rightly cropped up as player of the match and that was Esme. She was absolutely magnificent, from her shot stopping to alertness off her line and the save at the end was incredible!

Well done Belles for a brilliant hardworking display and to Esme for her excellent performance!