Womens 1st XI vs Harwich & Dovercourt 1

When the seagulls descended

A fish and chip edition

A brisk start paved the way for the Romford ladies 1’s. Romford's adrenaline-fueled forwards demonstrated the power of collaboration, with their attempts to move the ball up and into the opposing D, Sonata and Emma made link-up play appear effortless. Our rapid tempo set the tone for Harwich and Dovercourt, letting them know we were here to win! The fast pace forced some spectacular runs, with players using their skill to navigate the transitions from the defensive line to the forwards, culminating in some fascinatingly secure link-up play.

Harwich and Dovercourt recognised their error in affording Romford too much space and opted to apply pressure, therefore testing the Romford defensive line. This adjustment bore fruit as it led to a goal. A Harwich and Dovercourt forward orchestrated a precise and skilfully executed pass, lofting the ball to the left post, where another player from the same team deftly redirected it into the net. Leaving Romford 1-0 down. With Romford now on high alert, their resilience shone through as Cienna fearlessly threw herself into the fray, sacrificing her body to impede any attempts at goal. Once more, Romford's goalkeeper Lisa showcased her mastery, frustrating Harwich and Dovercourt's forwards with her exceptional saves, leaving them disheartened in their efforts.

During halftime, the team received valuable insights from both the coach and captain. Coach stressed the need for increased presence on the field, urging players to replicate the effective strategies employed during the initial 15 minutes of play. Meanwhile, Katie, the captain, underscored the significance of maintaining a compact defensive line and avoiding the tendency to become spectators of the game. Additionally, she highlighted the efficiency of playing a short game, advocating for a more controlled and precise approach to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities.

The second half commenced, with both sides going to war over their overwhelming desire to win. The combative behaviour didn’t cease as Romford's forwards put up an impressive effort, lining up more shots on target than ever before. However, it was greeted by some of the most tenacious defending I've ever seen. Harwich and Dovercourt's defensive line were unmatched in ability.

The opposition's superb fundamental skills shone throughout the game; getting more evident as the minutes ticked by. These skills brought them into Romford’s D where they were awarded a short corner. After a messy tussle, the Harwich and Dovercourt forward calmly and collectedly obtained the ball and placed it in the bottom right-hand corner with a slight lift, leaving the score 2-0 for Harwich and Dovercourt.

Both teams fought valiantly. Romford never gave up, again proving why they are among the top three teams in the league. They played with confidence and conviction, showing excellent levels of teamwork and working tirelessly while showing true grit and determination.

I'm proud of you all!

MOM Lisa for her prodigious efforts in defending her goal.