Junior Girls Soccer match report: Round 4 against St Agnes at Harvey Park
Well there is a saying that goes: "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger!"
I think that phrase certainly applies to us after this match.
In the first half the opposition pinched an early goal but for the rest of the 1st half we were the dominant team, coming up with three shots on goal.
The second half didn't go as planned with St Agnes taking a 2-0 lead after about 10 minutes - but showing just how much character and spirit is in this team - you all put your heads down and set about bridging the gap. This was achieved superbly, firstly through an excellent exchange between Annabelle and Sophia leading up to the first goal: with our Captain Sophia fittingly scoring our first goal of the season after weaving past two defenders and coolly converting the opportunity. I'm sure the team would agree Sophia has been amazing so far this season, playing out of position in defence, but also taking all our set pieces in attack - not to mention just how well Sophia is leading the team in general. This goal inspired the team to chance our arm and push forward in search of an equalizer - with only a few minutes remaining. Then Up stepped Holly Brasier!!! Receiving the ball about 30 metres out from goal, Holly weaved past a defender with skill and pace - and then with great poise and patience Holly slotted a fine shot past the keeper's outstretched left arm. Well done Sophia and Holly!
So all of a sudden it was 2-2 with only 2 minutes to play! To St Agnes's credit though they regrouped very well from the kick off and with a break down the right side they struck a cruel blow right on full time - literally the last kick of the match!
It must also be mentioned that our goalkeeper Hayley had made some fine saves during the game to keep us in the contest – and Hayley as our Co-captain is also leading the team in fine style.
I want to finish by saying I have coached a lot of sporting teams and never was I prouder of a team than the way you fought back into that match - you are all gifted players and in that second half you proved that.
Having said that - this was a game we could easily have won - so we need to draw on this experience and be ready to capitalise next time a similar opportunity arises.
Mr Mark Leahy
Coach