A re-arranged league cup tie with a place in the quarter finals at stake. The Belles were missing Ffion, Alice, Lola and Iris, but also had a couple of players under the weather. However a squad of 10 players made the journey in windy conditions.

The Belles set up with Scarlet leading the attack, as Darcy dropped into centre midfield to partner captain Caitlin. The game began and it was an open start, Freya found Scarlet who fired straight at the goalkeeper. Then Caitlin saw a shot saved well by the goalkeeper as the Belles were pushing for the opener. Another chance followed this time with Darcy finishing wide when through on goal. Then Oadby took the lead as their lively forward smashed a shot from long range past Esme. It was against the run of play but the Belles remained calm. Ava ran into the box but hit a shot wide then Freya bent a shot against the crossbar as halftime was approaching. However the Belles got a deserved equalizer as Darcy was played through and she showed good composure to slot past the goalkeeper.

At halftime we said to the girls to keep their composure when they get chances and to keep the intensity in their play.

Their lively attacker was driving forward but the Belles defence was doing so well. Lois was yet again immense with Monica at left back producing another fine display. Oliwia moved into centre midfield and both her and Caitlin were excellent in possession. Their creativity was providing the Belles with lots of opportunities. It was from the phenomenal Caitlin that the Belles got in front. Her pass sent Darcy scampering through and again a composed finished followed. Darcy was magnificent this morning, full of running but also pressing the defence to regain possession high up the pitch.

A third goal came as Lois sent a free kick towards Scarlet and Scarlet got in front of the defender to control the ball and slam a half volley into the corner. It was a lovely goal from the Belles.

Esme made a low save to deny the opposition with her distribution yet again being really good. Scarlet grabbed her second and the Belles fourth as the goalkeeper got her finger tips to her left footed shot but the ball bounced in. Scarlet has been playing really well lately and deserved her two goals today.

A switch was made as Chloe moved to striker as Oliwia went to right back. Oliwia played in 3 different positions today all with amazing effect, which shows what a crucial player she is for us.

Caitlin was still surging back and forth her determination in wanting the ball was evident today. As captain she stepped up, showing her quality but also how to unselfishly put the team first.

A fifth goal was nearly added by Freya whose strength got her an opportunity but as she shifted the ball onto her right foot she got tackled. However that fifth did come and it was in spectacular fashion. Scarlet whipped in a corner and there was Chloe to head emphatically into the top corner. Cue delirious scenes and a brilliant moment for Chloe as it was the Belles first ever headed goal from a corner!

The full time whistle went as the Belles make the quarter finals. They showed tremendous character and their work ethic throughout the whole game was excellent. To have four players missing, a few playing with illnesses and to go a goal down could have provided us with problems. But the 10 players stood up, were unbelievable and were good value for this win.

Players of the match went to Darcy for her excellent running all game, her strength and getting two goals. Also to Caitlin for a wonderful captains display. She was absolutely unreal in midfield, tracking back to win possession but also flying forward.
Well done girls and well done Belles!