Another double fixture for these feisty girls, facing St Francis school first. FSM took the ball to the opposition, with most of the possession, most of the power and most of the shots. Things were scrappy, particularly in the middle of the pitch, as it is challenging to hold formation when the other team aren't; lots of feet around the ball, and limited space for the ball to travel. There was an element of kick and chase to this game. We had several shots narrowly missing their target, as well as being somewhat hesitant to follow up a shot, allowing the goalie to react first. Nevertheless, shortly after the whistle to start the second half, a beautiful pass back from Polly to Hettie, fed out to Isla on the wing, then in to Violet up front saw FSM on the scoreboard. Textbook stuff. More pressure was put on the St F goalie, but no further shots were converted. Because of the attacking game we were having, the defence had - rightly - pushed up the pitch. In the dying moments of the match, St F had one breakaway ball, and we had too many gaps at the back. A small slip, but it took the victory away from us, as the final whistle blew seconds after they equalised. A tough break for the team - but hopefully a lesson learned about protecting the goal (& the goalie) throughout, and being ready to get back when needed. Disappointing for the girls, but still a draw; we'll take it.

Next up was Salisbury Cathedral School. The aim was to make passes instead of just kicks, and to use the width more. FSM put together a much more cohesive game. They looked for a well positioned team mate before making their move. They worked hard to control the ball first, instead of just hoofing it up the pitch. The SCS defence were put under pressure and, to their credit, did a sterling job, particularly when Polly followed her initial strike with a rebound strike, both saved. Hettie, in mid-field, showed some nifty footwork to win pretty much every ball she tackled, placing it well for the strikers, as well as nearly scoring herself. Beata began to read the right wing play much more confidently, taking early throw-ins to put FSM in a better position. Isla's left foot game on the left wing proved a great edge-play position, and she certainly has some power in that foot! Penny W is proving a real strength in defence and here, she added control and direction to her skills, feeding great balls up to the attackers. Penny A had a less busy day than usual in goal, coming out onto the field for the last half, and doing her bit in defence. Sara is gaining confidence every game and shows a knack for making short passes to avoid a tackle. Marta threw herself into every tackle, occasionally taking the ball right on the shin-pads at close range to block an SCS pass. Ouch! There was some classy football in this game, and Violet was again able to find the back of the net, twice. A third back-heeled shot was sadly a little too short to net her a hat-trick in a single game.

Great effort all round; good progress all round. 1 - 1 and 2 - 0 is another solid result for the U10s. Player of the Match: Violet.