Roses united against Haunchwood
A really good team performance against strong opposition, with everyone contributing to a well-earned 1–1 draw.
We went into the game with a clear plan: keep two strikers up at all times, get the ball forward quickly and then support from midfield and the wide areas. We wanted to be direct, and our equaliser came exactly from that approach, with Chloe G showing great strength and persistence to keep going and get the ball over the line under pressure.
We also challenged the girls to win their individual 1v1 battles, and we felt they did that really well today.
Defensively, we were solid and aggressive in trying to win the ball first. The midfield worked incredibly hard, supported by our wide players, while the forwards continually chased and pressured the ball. At times we had to dig in, but we also pressed Haunchwood into mistakes, particularly in and around the final third.
The biggest positive for me was that we had a plan, and the girls stuck to it. They supported each other whether they were on or off the pitch, competed for each other and stood up for themselves in their individual battles. That team mentality was excellent to see.
A couple of individual shoutouts too. Evie and Lauren have both been working hard on the physical side of the game, and we keep pushing them to be stronger and more competitive. Both were really engaged with that today and it was great to see their progress.
It was also great to have Ellie back from injury and to see Sophie getting herself back into game mode.
Players of the Match – Lyla & Caris
Lyla didn’t put a foot or hand wrong all game. She caught several crosses, taking pressure off the defence, and made a number of brave interventions, getting down at the feet of attackers when they were through on goal or about to finish a cross. A really assured performance.
Caris was everywhere defensively. She marked tightly, competed for everything and even stepped into midfield at times to win the ball back. A really strong and disciplined defensive display.
A 1–1 draw against strong opposition, but more importantly, a performance where the girls showed they can take a plan onto the pitch, stick to it and fight for each other.
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