Cup round 2 report

Following the previous day's dismal display Sunday saw an immediate opportunity for the Ladies 1st XI to bounce back in the Investec Women's knock out comp. We were on the road again, this time to Ben Rhydding. Most took the scenic route as the motorway signs lied about the M62 being closed. Following the lovely rural views of North Yorkshire we all arrived raring to put right the performance of the previous day. The squad was bolstered by Ellie, Nikki and Amber giving us more options to substitute and keep the intensity high - always a challenge with double headers! We also welcomed Caitlin Lloyd making her 1st XI debut. We started the game much better, quickly placing Ben Rhydding under pressure. The game was scrappy at times, however we kept our patience in possession and worked hard to keep the ball in the Ben Rhydding half for large amounts of the first half but without scoring. Finally with about 8minutes left of the first half Baxter struck! 1-0! There was a delay of a few minutes after the goal whilst a Ben Rhydding player received attention for a cut to her head, however the focus was not lost and the lead should have been extended before half time. Second half saw much of the same, good pressure on the Ben Rhydding team and slick passages of attacking play. A few lapses in concentration allowed Ben Rhydding opportunities but Caitlin kept their efforts at bay. It was not long before Berry added her name to the score sheet with a well struck effort. Watton, not wanting to be out done decided to top this with a belter into the bottom corner. With a cushion of 3-0 it could have been a case of stepping of the gas but this was not the case. The work rate remained high and a fourth and fifth were added by Turner, and Baxter again. Also of note was a goal line clearance by Horan despite being blinded by the low sunshine! So a strong come back performance saw us safely into the next round of the cup. Lets hope the positives of the day are built upon in the next two tough league fixtures versus Wakefield and Durham. Round 3 is to be played away to West Herts on Oct 21st....anyone fancy a cup run?