The Lionesses had a friendly with Desford on Sunday in a game which saw two relatively inexperienced sides play a fantastic match which was an end to end encounter. We decided to play 8 a side and 60 minutes to get more game time for all players.

Desford scored almost immediately from our kick off after they chased a pass back but were met with some good defending. After that it was a very even game, both teams were running with the ball well and even got through some tight areas of the pitch which was compressed with the extra player.

Defensively we were strong putting pressure on the players in possession, this is something the team have improved on a lot this season and are showing more tenacity in general. Francesca, Alice, Ella-May and Daisy did well and kept their positions and limited the oppositions chances and when they did find a way through they found Tilly in goal who did well to come and collect any through balls. Tilly also came outfield and as always won lots of tackles and played some good balls forward, later in the game we put her upfront to try a new position.

In midfield we used Saffron and Thea, both girls were moving around the pitch with lots of energy. Defensively they worked hard to win the ball back and then made good choices in possession either running the ball towards the oppositions defence or trying to make a pass forward.

Imogen, Bethany, Leah and Sophie played as forwards and all looked a threat when they were running with the ball. Bethany scored her first goal this season with a strong run and a shot which crept under the goalkeeper and Sophie scored the goal of the game with a run across the defence and a low shot with power into the far corner.

Players of the Match this week were awarded to Daisy and Saffron. Daisy was asked to keep her position in defence and she did this well and made some important defensive tackles against two strong and quick forwards. She also got herself a goal which she was so pleased about. Secondly we awarded Saffron Player of the Match also, she played with high energy and her dribbling with the ball was excellent. She also played a couple of nice passes to find a team mate to put them through on goal. She got herself a well deserved goal after running with the ball and finishing into the bottom corner as the goalkeeper closed down the angle.

Well done Lionesses!