For those that might not be aware, the Ely City Ladies third team is a squad of ladies and young girls who are relatively new to the game or have returned after a period of absence. Some have never played before but thought that they would give it a go! Therefore, a match is always a welcome opportunity to gain experience and practice skills which are being developed and introduced at training.
Having said that, it was still hard work! Diane Redman donned the goalie kit once again and fended off the attackers without batting an eyelid. In defence were Clare Osborne (having returned from having a foot operation), Cathy Tapley, Sam Carford and Kat Bamber. Between them they worked the defence and at half time the score was 0 – 1.
The stars of the show were our young midfield players; Chantal Leher, Aimee Cooper, Stevie Cooper and Ella Cooper. They were guided and encouraged by Emily James and Helen Parks who were playing up front. They showed strength and determination and employed good communication with each other. Together they worked as a team and even had the opportunity to strike at the goal and were also awarded a couple of short corners.
Unfortunately at the start of the second half we had changed the formation of the defence which caused some confusion and 2 goals were conceded in quick succession. The squad quickly reverted to the starting line-up and for the remainder of the second half the team fought valiantly, however the final score was 0 – 4.
We had no substitute players and all played long and hard. The Player of the Match trophy was awarded to 3 players, namely; Chantal Leher, Aimee Cooper and Stevie Cooper. Everyone had a good game and we were all quite relieved to sit down and have a nice cup of soup and piece of cake at the end of it.