Ely Ladies 2 v Newmarket 2

Despite last minute injuries and illnesses and part of the goal keeper kit missing, Ely 2nds rose to the challenge put up a good fight against Newmarket who are currently top of the league.

Given how the last few matches had gone, there was some apprehension amongst the team but from first push-off, Ely worked hard and found themselves attacking much more in this game than in previous matches.

Goalkeeper Emma (awarded player of the pitch) was athletic diving for the ball and made numerous, courageous saves. Her efforts were equalised by Ely’s strong defence, captain Gemma, Charlotte, Karen and Evie who all worked hard and challenged Newmarket’s breakthroughs. Unfortunately, Newmarket were able to sneak the ball into the back of the net before half-time. However, Ely remained strong and continued to challenge Newmarket, but just before half-time Lynette went down with a nasty leg injury leaving Ely with just 10 players on the pitch. Ely then played a strong defensive game before Lynette recovered and bounded back onto the pitch.

The half-time score was 2-0 to Newmarket and Ely returned to the pitch positive at how they had progressed as a team over the last few weeks. Midfielders Kirstie, Polly and Charlotte made excellent interceptions and by confronting the opposition they were able to channel the ball to into the attacking 25 for forwards Lynette, Sophie and Keeley to attempt to defy Newmarket’s defence. Unfortunately, despite a strong attack and several shots at goal, two from short-corners, Newmarket’s defence was resilient and Ely struggled to get the ball to the net.

However, no injury was going to stop Lynette, the youngest and fastest player on the team. Half way through the second half she took the opportunity to slither the ball past the goal line resulting in a 3-1 score. With heads held high, Ely continued to press and were unlucky not to get any more goals despite a large amount of play in the attacking D. Unfortunately, Newmarket were able to breakthrough and quickly attack resulting in another goal, 4-1 to Newmarket.

Despite the score, there is no doubt that this was Ely’s best match of the season yet, efforts from training are starting to shine through in game-play and it is noticeable that the team is developing as a whole. Ely 2nds would like to thank the supporters who came and cheer-led despite the bitter chilliness in the air, a special shout out to 7-year-old Jasmine who helped keep up the team spirits. Ely 2nds are eager and awaiting their next match away against Cambridge South next Saturday at 10.30am…. bring it on…