Match report

Match report

Well done to Woodside Reds who played a hard match against the Blues. Despite us knowing the Blues have outplayed most teams this year, it was great to see our heads up attitude giving it all. Coming away with a loss and still being able to be proud that we played the best we could without any negative feelings really shows our true strength. I’m proud that our positive attitudes and confidence are continuing to see our team play improve. I am no longer seeing ‘kick chasey’ but a group of responsible friends who own their spaces and roles that make life difficult for our opposition. They did not walk away easily today.

Our defence again played smartly, with Ruby covering her corner well and stopping many of the crosses that were trying to come through that side. Ryan played exceptionally in centre defence with many quick and sharp clearances, and Cohenn’s ownership of his space and intelligent handling of the ball within his reach makes him a real asset. Banjo had a great first half in keep with several strong saves and thoughtful movement when the ball came close. Manny worked exceptionally well in defence, owning his defensive wing and feeding several balls forward whilst hampering their wing moves.

Again our midfield is where our strength came hindering the Blues. They had no time to think or play creatively as we owned our space and pushed on the ball. Lysiane had a great match with many strong tackles and great balls forward. Bob pressured the ball through midfield again, closing down several of their midfielders. George was strong in his tackles and positioned himself several times in the centre ready to get another goal! Sam owned his space, tackled hard, passed quickly when needed and taking time to think when he had time.

We experimented with Flynn and Cooper in attack, and although they didn’t get many shots on goal, they constantly moved and did not give the Blues room to play in the back. Both still moved like defenders given both have only really played defence, but there were glimpses of reading the play and trying to get the ball as attackers do. Riley V had a huge job on his shoulders, and he was not only able to shut down one of their strongest play creators, but also pressure mistakes with his speed and determination. Riley T (despite him not believing it) played well in midfield, again, a position foreign to him. He had a hard time keeping in the second half with many shots coming, but as always he kept his head up and gave it his best.

Our game continues to improve week by week, and more than anything it is obvious that we have made individual improvements in skills, control and movement. Our team playing is coming along and now that we are owning our positions, continued work on communication, passing speed and accuracy is what we will work on!