Girls Under 11s Blue
| Manager: | Simon Smith |
|---|---|
| Assistant Manager: | Mark Hammerton |
| Team Colours: | Red & Blue |
| League: | West Lancs League |
| Home Pitch: | Lammack ( Old Blackburnians) |
| Kick-off Time: | |
| Training Time: | Wednesday |
BCSC v Woodbank (Abandoned)
Posted on 29/04/2012 by Simon Smith
Due to irregularities at Woodbank, the final game of the season was abandoned and the points awarded to BCSC.
This is not an ideal end to the season, but I think everyone would accept that a win was the probable outcome (we had scored 28 goals without reply in the two other games) although Woodbank have certainly improved over the last few months.
So, in a season where things have not gone to plan and there have been massive upheavals, we have won the West Lancashire Girls Under 11s Championship losing only three points in the process.
I would like to thank all the girls for their efforts. They adapted to changes in playing style, to changes in personnel and changes in their beloved manager being replaced by myself. They have done their talking ON the pitch and I cannot praise them high enough. One glance through these match reports will show that. We kept hold of the ethos that `we win together, we lose together and there are no stars in this team`. And yet conversely there were a team full of stars; every one of them fought to the bitter end and didn`t let their team-mates down, so thanks and plaudits go to (in alphabetical order) Evie Barclay, Eve Clarkson, Emmie Coleman, Kourtney Davies, Sophie Evans, Marriyah Khan, Erin McDaid, Hollie Middleton, Hannah Procter, Ione Smith, Phoebe Wragg and Cristy Yates.
I only took over from Kelvin to keep the side together and ticking over to complete the season, but this soon snowballed into expectation and perhaps that expectation weighed more heavily on me than the girls. I think to be a truly successful manager you need a good many things and although I am satisfied that everything I did football-wise helped the girls development , I have found other attributes beyond me.
Therefore, I have asked Nigel and Ian that I may stand down, take a more sedate role in the club and allow a more respected and able manager to come in and take the girls forward. This they accepted.
Thanks again girls, it`s been a blast and if I am able to see Hollie lift that Championship then every sleepless night, every match day vomit, every bit lip will have been worth it.
"You win nothing with kids", Alan Hansen said. He may have been right, but the kids will win it themselves anyway.
BCSC v Wigan Athletic (away)
Posted on 31/03/2012 by Simon Smith
A gloriously sunny week did not reach to the weekend and the trip to Wigan required coats, hats and sensible footwear rather than Ambre Solaire, cut-off jeans and thongs (the sandals obviously.)
This was all by the by; if we won today, I was prepared to don a sombrero and dance the Lambada with Dot Cotton. Or at the very least crack a smile.
The actual physical game-plan was simple; play football and what happens…well, it happens. The girls have given everything this season and have survived the loss of their mentor, a few players and had to adapt to a new system. To compete with the `big clubs` was a bonus, to be leading the pack at this late stage was unbelievable.
The mental game-plan was not so simple. There were certainly some nerves and, although every girl knew that they could rely on their team-mates, adrenalin was fizzing about. We opted not to overdo the team-talk, or the warm-up. The girls released some nervous energy and bonded with some banter and wayward shooting.
The referee was allegedly eager to start early but as we lined up at 10:55, there was no sign of commencing the game. The girls did not allow their nerves to grow in this period and when the game WAS eventually started, it was BCSC who carried the game to Wigan. Eve tore through the defence, Hollie sought to play the passes into dangerous positions and Kourtney ran and ran to unsettle the defence.
A neat flick inside by Erin found Hollie and her clipped ball found Kourtney who smuggled the ball through to Eve, but her drive was just wide. Wigan attempted a passing game, but found Ione in imperious form and Hannah hustling around making it hard for players to settle. All the players were working for each other and all that was needed was a breakthrough.
After attempts on goal from Eve and Hollie, finally the chance came. KOURTNEY span around a defender and a fortunate bounce left her on the edge of the area and her shot across the keeper flew in off the post 1-0 BCSC.
Marriyah was introduced and immediately made an impact, running, twisting, turning and laying intelligent balls off. The midfield was dominant and as EVE broke on the right, her fierce cross-shot took a deflection and it was 2-0; oh, lovely menthol waft of breathing space.
Emmie foraged down the left and allowed no time for opposition decision making. The defence read everything and sought to pass the ball and Phoebe reached half-time without having touched the ball.
H/T Wigan 0 BCSC 2
The half time chat was simple. The only problem was that I couldn`t get them back on the pitch immediately! If we carried on defending from the front then we would not concede and, ergo, win the game. The girls understood that we should not sit back and invite Wigan onto us, but keep our shape and carry on working hard.
If anything the BCSC girls played even better in the second half. An unfortunate knock for Hannah forced her out of proceedings and Hollie slotted in at the back alongside Ione. Eve settled into central midfield and the shape held as both Erin and Marriyah nipped and bit for possession and kept the Wigan girls on the turn. Phoebe finally got a touch as she raced out to claim a through ball.
Following a series of corners, the ball broke to HOLLIE some twenty yards out and her precise curling shot fitted perfectly in the top corner. 3-0 and if these girls would ship three goals now, I was a Dutchman.
Ik spreek een heel klein beetje Nederlands, so alsjeblieft niet toegeven. Of course, Hollie and Ione kept their fingers in the dyke, ably aided by the peerless midfield and a goal-hungry Kourtney. The camaraderie amongst the girls was excellent and after another dangerous set piece from Erin and Eve, the ball fell in the crowded box to KOURTNEY who swivelled and crashed in her sixth in three games for 4-0.
With eight minutes left on the clock, nerves must surely be settled now, but it`s not over until the fat manager stops twiddling his wedding ring. The game drew to a close with no further goals and ended 4-0.
There is now only one match left this season, against Woodbank away, and due to the vagaries of the league this is in a month’s time. Any finality will wait until then, but the girls can be proud of their achievements in the game and the season. This is a league which is crammed with some of the best Under 11 girls teams outside of Academies in the country. To have won 16 out of 17 games so far is a testament to the girls’ togetherness and driven, yet sporting attitude.
Sadly, some players will take the opportunity to move on in the summer and we wish them well. The lure of bigger and better things is always strong. So let`s enjoy what remains of this fine season and if we are pushed all the way to the last game then let`s try and make it a big turnout at Woodbank on the 29th April. It may well be our last dance together and I promise not to bring Dot Cotton and my Sombrero.
Zeg vaarwel kinderen.
F/T Wigan 0 BCSC 4
Phoebe, Ione, Hannah, Hollie (1), Eve (1), Emmie, Erin, Marriyah, Kourtney (2
BCSC v St Helens (home)
Posted on 24/03/2012 by Simon Smith
The burst of sunshine enticed a few more spectators to Lammack for this last league home game of the season. They did not have long to wait for action.
Eve, Hollie and Emmie had good shots saved or deflected before a ripping St Helens drive was tipped over the bar by Phoebe.
The patient approach may not be to everyone's taste, but we carried on trying to pass when we had the ball and close down quickly when we didn't. Hannah and Ione launched attacks with short passes and Erin was her usual thoughtful self; calm on the ball and unselfish.
Finally, Kourtney was unleashed and, as we had planned, made a quick impact. Hollie fought to win the ball and slipped a pass to EVE who rounded a defender, set herself and fired an unstoppable shot past the keeper.1-0.
The pressure continued and a long throw from Erin led to an acrobatic flick from Kourtney and a delicious lob from EVE. 2-0. Any nerves settled.
It didnt stop there. A kick from Phoebe worked it's way to Erinwho fed Hollie whose ball wriggled through to KOURTNEY who finished powerfully. 3-0 BCSC.
In the dying minutes of the half there was an almost carbon copy and KOURTNEY rifled home with joy. 4-0.
H/T BCSC 4 St Helens 0
The squad has been much more settled and drilled of late and, apart from a few positional changes, there was no great need to add to our pre-match discussion; the girls knew their individual jobs were to carry on making the collective more than the sum of its parts.
Ione moved to left midfield, Hannah to a striking role, Emmie and Hollie to defence. There was a seamless look to the side and great work from Eve led to KOURTNEY blasting home her hat-trick. 5-0.
Kourtney has worked hard to make the step up to the WLGL and has developed a positional sense as well as when to make the forward runs.
Excelnt work from Erin led to a chance for Eve which she, unselfishly for someone on a hat-trick, back heeled for HANNAH to finish. 6-0.
There were further chances for Ione, Eve and Hannah. A tidy defensive display from Phoebe, Hollie and Emmie. Erin delivered some probing corner kicks and tidy passing.
Our penultimate game away this week at Wigan will decide our fate; top of the crop or valiant runners up. The fire and skill seen from these girls has been a pleasure this season and it would be a shame if they did not get their reward.
F/T BCSC 6 St Helens 0
Phoebe, Ione, Hannah(1) Hollie, Erin, Eve(2) Emmie, Kourtney (3).
BCSC v Burnley (home)
Posted on 10/03/2012 by Simon Smith
This local derby was never going to be influenced by league placings and if the BCSC girls didn`t believe their dashingly handsome manager before the game. then they certainly did after Ione was forced into two desperate goal line clearances in the first two minutes.
BCSC settled as much as they were allowed and tried to get the ball down and pass. There were some committed challenges going in from both sides and it was no place for the faint hearted.
After ten minutes of nip and tuck, good work from Hollie and Eve led to a typical poachers goal from EMMIE, tucking the ball past the keeper following a great save. 1-0 BCSC.
This allowed some breathing space, but unlike some of the teams we have faced, Burnley threw everything at the girls from the first whistle and continued to do so. This allowed the home side to break frequently, but over-elaborate skills and excellent goalkeeping kept the score down to one.
Hannah has been champing at the bit to get another chance in attack and finally her attendance and the opportunity were in alignment. Just before half-time, a neat twist and turn saw HANNAH finish with aplomb. 2-0 and great timing.
H/T BCSC 2 Burnley 0
The second half continued along the same lines; Burnley attacks turned into BCSC breakaways, but again the passes were just too weighty or weak or just non-existent. Finally the pressure told and the weight of expectation caused a spill in the area and Burnley were back in it 2-1.
Kristy was moved into midfield and Kourtney introduced in attack. These two have embraced our `pass and move` policy and Kristy`s central midfield links with a determined Erin and Eve calmed the nerves on the far sidelines.
For the last ten minutes, BCSC reverted to a more recognisable line-up and Erin jinked inside the impressive Burnley defender, Bronte and her square ball to Hollie was met with a trademark touch and slide rule pass. KOURTNEY had already gambled on the pass and was wily enough to take the shot early enough to give the keeper no time to close down. Her first, and certainly not last, for our team. 3-1
The game was played out with strong effort from Ione and Hannah, a mature performance from Erin and Emmie, a captain`s effort from both Hollie and Eve, a top effort, but frustrating morning for Phoebe and Marriyah, (although both responded well and bounced back) and another excellent assimilation for Kristy and Kourtney.
The week before we had seven players, this week we had ten and I will ensure all girls attending will be accommodated. A more narrow victory than some had expected, but an invaluable test and a worthwhile exercise in rotation. As we know, some girls will always leave in the summer, some others arrive. Already we are looking to the future of BCSC Under 11 Blues and I will be satisfied that whoever plays, we will have seven girls on the pitch playing for each other and for the team.
F/T BCSC 3 Burnley 1
Phoebe, Ione, Kristy, Hollie, Erin, Emmie (1), Eve, Kourtney (1), Marriyah, Hannah(1)
BCSC v Academy Juniors
Posted on 03/03/2012 by Simon Smith
The arrival of Academy Jrs meant a return to our bread and butter; the league. Our opponents are a resilient side who never give up and have endured the loss of players this season.
The girls were eager to get back to winning ways, but the need for patience and team work was emphasised. We are not in our current position through any other reason than unselfish team work.
All players, right from Ione and Kristy at the back, were given instruction to try and pass at all times, regardless of error. The girls responded excellently to this.
The majority of the first fifteen minutes was spent in the Academy half, again the opposition keeper excelling with a plethora of stunning stops. Hollie, Eve, Erin and an effervescent Emmie thundered in shots which the keeper turned away and even a succession of accurate corners from Erin were kept out.
Ione and Kristy ignited attacks with thoughtful balls and Phoebe was basically a spectator. For all that, there was no score.
The girls continued to show the patience of Job (one for the theologists amongst you) and pass the ball.
The breakthrough came when a neat ball into the channel by Hollie was picked up by Eve and her pass was swept in by EMMIE for the opener. 1-0.
This relaxed the girls and brought Academy out of their half. However, almost immediately EVE broke again after tidy interplay between Hollie, Kristy and Erin to slot home for the vital second: 2-0.
The ball was being moved about quickly and the key to this was keeping the shape of the formation. Finding time on the half way line Ione looked up and clipped a sublime ball to Eve who met it on the half volley to find EMMIE the predator on the six yard line. 3-0 and if the goal was well-worked and simple, the subsequent 'bomb' celebration was, well, one of the above.
Kristy picked up the ball on the edge of her own area and found Ione who kept the ball moving before returning it to Kristy who moved it on to Hollie on the centre spot. Hollie, Emmie and Eve exchanged touches. Suddenly, there had been three passes in three seconds and ERIN was now clipping the ball home at the far post. Every outfield player had touched the ball, twice at most, in what is my contender for goal of the season. 4-0.
Another cross into the box from the defence coaxed the keeper out to punch clear to the edge of the area and in those situations HOLLIE and that hammer of a boot is lethal. 5-0.
H/T BCSC 5 Academy Jrs 0
Any manager worth his Saxa will tell you that it's hard to give much of a half time talk when the team are doing everything right.
As the maxim goes; Keep calm and carry on!
There was no doubt that the second half would be an anti-climax and indeed a few positional changes were implemented, the defenders finally getting the chance to move upfield and it was KRISTY's darting run that led to a deflected cross being turned in for 6-0.
The shape became a little distended. The passing a little less clinical and, with the lack of subs, legs a little tired. The opposition stretched the BCSC girls more in the second half. With all due respect to Academy, the game was probably beyond them at half time and they committed to attack and pushed and pushed for consolation and did have chances although Phoebe was untroubled.
The performance in the first half was excellent and for all the game the togetherness and spirit of the seven girls shone through. We have four important games left and if we maintain that level of good attitude and confident play then we will finish this tough season strongly.
F/T BCSC 6 Academy Jrs 0
Phoebe, Ione, Kristy, Eve, Hollie, Erin, Emmie.
BCSC v Man City (away) LEAGUE CUP
Posted on 26/02/2012 by Simon Smith
Take two?
The trip to Manchester was not as based on superstition as last time, more a worry as to whether we had seven players turning up.
The opposition shared the aches, pains and weariness although probably not the headaches and bellyaches.
There should be no need to motivate a team who performed below their best in the first game, but we also needed to eradicate the negativity and accentuate the positive (see, compare me to Steve Kean and I start talking like him!)
The girls began the game as if the previous day hadn't happened. There was certainly more fire and although some of this was wildfire, it was an improvement.
There was only one problem; City were also puffing at full steam and, buoyed by their first positive result against us the day earlier, had belief and a large, vociferous crowd behind them. Please note those last two words!
Phoebe had to make a reflex save to keep out a snap shot and Hannah and Ione fought to thwart the talented City attack. Hollie drove on and looked to pass wide, Eve and Marriyah tried to break down the stout defences of City and Erin and Emmie fought, bobbed and weaved.
You couldn't separate the teams with a cigarette paper and at half time it remained goalless.
H/T Man City 0 BCSC 0
In the last game here BCSC had started the second half with a goal and thereafter taken control, this time they were up against a sterner test.
The girls fought hard and when a goal kick fell to Hollie, her powerful volley seemed to be heading for the corner, but thumped the post and away.
This proved a defining moment as City perhaps sensed that the luck that had eluded them previously in our fixtures had maybe turned.
The very next attack led to a City corner which, as all their corners had been, was struck with pace and flew in off the mass of bodies. 0-1.
The way that BCSC responded to this was heartening. Eve and Erin linked well to create a chance for Emmie which just fell short of the post, Hollie and Hannah combined to set up Eve who just couldn't break through the tackles flying in and Ione attempted to emulate Hollie's long range effort, but it flew just wide.
Marriyah's pace created three chances for herself which on another day would have garnered her an hat-trick, but the radar was off on all three occasions.
It was not all BCSC; Ione managed to scoop the ball off the line and over a flailing City boot and around the post for a corner after a Man City cross. The time was running out and the girls were just falling short on the day. There was time for one last foray and a fierce drive from Hollie, but it wasn't to be.
The opposition were, on the day, by far the strongest side we have played in my two years at the club and all four games have been nip and tuck.
Of course I am disappointed that in just over 24 hours we bowed out of both cups, but I feel it is hardly worthy of the knee-jerk reaction I have experienced.
It is tough at the top and expectations are high, perhaps too high for 10-11 year olds. If I am feeling the negativity then the girls will too.
F/T Man City 1 BCSC 0
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Hollie, Eve, Erin, Emmie, Marriyah.
BCSC v Man City (home) CHALLENGE CUP
Posted on 25/02/2012 by Simon Smith
The persistent postponements of our cup games with City meant that both ties were scheduled for the same weekend.
A car accident on the motorway delayed City's arrival, but it was BCSC who were hampered by this; an elongated "warm up" leaving them cold and slow to start against a Man City side who climbed straight out of the car and into first gear.
The first minute brought a City corner and in the melee a toe poke deceived an off balance Phoebe. This, far from being a blow, was in my eyes the best thing that could have happened. The cobwebs were blown off immediately and within 90 seconds, MARRIYAH set off on a jinking run which ended with a neat nutmeg on the keeper. 1-1 and barely two minutes played.
The game could not keep this pace and City settled into a rhythm. However, BCSC lost shape as they sought individual glory rather than teamwork. Inevitably City took advantage of the gaps and created a second goal. 1-2 and we could have no complaints.
H/T BCSC 1 Man City 2
The half time huddle was concerned with getting back to our passing game and keeping shape. Positional changes and substitutions were made until halfway through the second half, I was satisfied that we had finally settled.
Once again, however, our shape soon became wobbly and with five minutes to go, a long City ball toward the area left Ione alone, in two minds with two strikers to mark. The ball eluded both her and the first striker and fell to the other City striker who knocked home for 1-3.
We were now forced to go gung-ho earlier than expected and went to 1-4-1 in an attempt to salvage something. This paid off as MARRIYAH wriggled through and got on the end of a good move dictated by the patient touches of Erin, who was excellent throughout. 2-3 and was there time left?
Certainly my timepiece (borrowed from Pete Clarkson after a phone malfunction!) said the time was up. The ref indicated to us that there was a little time added for subs coming on and off and, despite vociferous distaste at these changes, it nearly forced extra time.
First Eve slipped through and almost beat the excellent City keeper and then as the seconds ticked, Marriyah found herself one on one with the keeper, but again we suffered at the hands (and feet and agility) of another determined goalie as she first deflected the shot then denied Eve from the rebound. Last kick of the game was the resulting goal kick.
The result was a fair one. For us to have pinched an equaliser would be to deny the better side and I'd rather a communal defeat than someone, BCSC or Man City, missing a penalty and feeling undeservedly singled out.
This was the least important of our three consecutive games against the Sky Blues, although we strove to win, and although some have questioned my judgement, I have come to expect this and, as always, accept full blame for any defeat.
The ethos of this side is teamwork, inclusion and passing. If any of the parents are against this then the time for discussion is at the close of the campaign.
F/T BCSC 2 Man City 3
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Hollie, Eve, Erin, Emmie, Marriyah (2), Kourtney.
BCSC v Man City Ladies (away)
Posted on 29/01/2012 by Simon Smith
If there is a more superstitious man than me in Blackburn, I`ve yet to meet him and so when on the journey to Eccles for this important fixture against Manchester City (the first of three in a month), I saw a solitary magpie in Darwen, Bolton and Irlam, well you`d think that, even without these eyebrows, my luck was out.
The news that one of our number was stranded in Manchester city centre at 10:00 hardly dismissed these fears, but the welcome sight of seven magpies pottering across the grass at the entrance to the ground allayed my fears.
Pete Clarkson used his warm up to relax the girls and keep them in a good, positive frame of mind and we made sure that all the girls understood the importance of listening to what instructions I gave them. The game visibly would differ from the Blackpool fixture in that BCSC made a flying start.
Within seconds of the whistle, before any City players had touched the ball, Eve was six yards from goal shaping up to shoot. That a skilled block prevented a goal only served to emphasise that both teams were intent on making this a match to savour.
Paul McCoy has a fine squad there at Man City and it was end to end stuff. No quarter given and although BCSC had perhaps the clearer chances, City caused untold mayhem from set pieces and all 14 on the pitch players looked lively. There was no let up and after a heart in the mouth goalmouth scramble where Ione cleared by using keeper Phoebe`s arm (quite blatantly inadvertent by the tall defender!) BCSC began to take the initiative and settle.
Kourtney was a thorn in the City side, running and bustling through to never let the City defence settle and play out from the back. Hollie marshalled, passed wisely and measured the through balls. Marriyah overcame a bruised heel to give 100% and make some surging runs into the box and Eve was simply astonishing. Time and again she ran at the City goal and it seemed inevitable she would get the lucky bounce she needed to break the deadlock, but to no avail. Emmie was introduced to give Kourtney a rest from her tireless running, and the diddy dynamo's closing down, intelligent runs down the flanks and boundless will to win conserved some energy for the midfield and helped them keep shape to defend as well as attack.
Hannah was the veritable dinky pocket rocket, fiercely battling for possession whilst Ione repelled the long balls and if a player did beat her with skill, they didn`t get far as she snaked out a leg to halt progress with a well timed tackle. All this said, it was by no means a quiet day at the office for Phoebe; City are a clever, well coached side who seek the probing balls and Phoebe had to make some good saves, made easier by her alertness and positioning.
And yet, as in the last game, the half time whistle signalled a scoreless first half which was nonetheless breathtakingly exciting.
H/T Man City 0 BCSC 0
Again, the girls took on board all I had to say at half time and it was not rocket science; a draw is no disaster, but we keep playing exactly as we are and if we DO get the goal, then let`s not sit back and invite pressure.
Erin slotted in on the left and before she had a chance to get a touch, Ione checked inside two City attackers and chipped the ball over the City defence. The uneven pitch foxed the last defender, but it did not fox EMMIE who had gambled on the run and took the shot early and her deadly accuracy saw the ball crack off both posts and into the net. An early goal in the second half was all well and good (and the finish was both as impudent and as celebrated as you would expect from `Messi`, but who was that proud mum doing the war-dance around her handbag?), but the key matter was how the BCSC girls would respond, not to mention the City girls.
As Phoebe organised, Hannah read play, Ione cleared play and Hollie rolled up her sleeves and dug in. Eve drew breath for another lung busting half and Erin seemed to be in the eye of the hurricane; all about her were lunges and flying mud and yet she passed the ball as if in an oasis of calm.
Emmie? Well, she may still have been in dreamland about the goal, but her work-rate soared. Take it from me; when you are the one who has put the side 1-0 up, you don`t want any opponent on the score sheet with you.
The game ebbed and flowed and one 50/50 ball between Eve and the Man City captain should have been videoed and shown to professional players. Both players, teeth gritted, eyes fixed on the object of desire. Not Justin Bieber, not a transfer nor an opponent’s ankle, but the ball. The subsequent skyward nature of it as both challenged fairly, but wholeheartedly only went to show the passion and spirit of the game
Ten minutes from the end, Hollie chipped another back-spun ball to Erin who wriggled her way through before hitting a wall of defenders and neatly playing it back to Hollie. The pitch slowed the ball down and it again turned into a 50/50 ball. Hollie won the battle and flicked it into the area where EVE finally got her reward for a great display. 2-0 BCSC.
Now, City piled forward in numbers, but Ione, and especially Hannah, were imperious. To them and Phoebe, a clean sheet is their equivalent of a goal. The midfield and lone striker Emmie drew on their last reserves and hardly needed my gentle reminders of `Blackpool, Blackpool` as they ran their legs to stumps. Kourtney added a freshness late on and it will be good to have her involved in the latter stages of the season.
There were more chances for BCSC and Marriyah could have made it three on a couple of occasions, but her heel injury thwarted real ummph in the shot.
There was a little more ebb and flow before the referee (who was excellent and sensible throughout) blew the whistle on a tremendous, hard won victory for the girls against a sporting, tough, skilful and committed side.
Anyone associated with the side knows that the last two weeks have been a little unsavoury and I am appreciative of your support in drawing a line under the unrest.
The seven magpies gathered once more for a secret never to be told. What was it? Well, that would be telling, wouldn`t it!
F/T Man City 0 BCSC 2
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Eve (1), Erin, Hollie, Emmie (1), Kourtney, Marriyah.
BCSC v Blackpool (away)
Posted on 14/01/2012 by Simon Smith
The trip to Blackpool was not one that required bucket and spade, but after five minutes of the game it appeared as if the Blackpool goalkeeper could have brought one out with her.
The pitch was gigantic and, although pacing it out would have been a petty pursuit, seemed much bigger than standard. That said, the game was played entirely in our half for the first five minutes as Blackpool took advantage of the stretched nature of the BCSC side.
Ione and Hannah were constantly under siege and Hollie was unable to press forward as she was pinned by a wave of Tangerine shirts. Phoebe had to be on her mettle and she made a good, confident early save.
Finally, the girls weathered the storm and Hollie was able to link with Erin and Eve to create some attacking plays. Sophie found herself marked and the attacks were thwarted. The two BCSC defenders were time and again forced into action and there was hardly a let-up. Marriyah was introduced to inject some pace and movement and Emmie to battle away in her inimitable way.
Some of the pressure was lifted and as BCSC fought hard to maintain equality, the half time whistle signalled a close to a cracking first half.
H/T Blackpool 0 BCSC 0
The half time talk was all about putting in as much work rate as we could. That we possessed skill in abundance was comforting, but this game would be as much about digging in and working for each other and playing as a unit.
BCSC started the second half strongly and after a timely interception and pass from Ione, Eve streaked away and as her shot was parried there was MARRIYAH to be first to react and fire home. 1-0 and it seemed as though a classic smash and grab was on the cards.
This was a time for calm and for major decisions. It was one that I got totally wrong and I alone take responsibility for it. I have to confess that I put the health and safety of a team member above allowing the girls to carry on as they were. If I had been a little firmer about these matters earlier in the game then this incident would not have occurred. I apologise for any misunderstanding.
The Blackpool girls now had no choice but to throw everything at us. Mac has a good set of players and they all put in a hardworking performance when required. A long ball across the field found a Blackpool defender who finished splendidly into the top corner. 1-1 and there could be no complaints.
Almost immediately, Ione was finally beaten for pace on the wing and could not block the cross, when it arrived there were three Blackpool players queuing up and only a prone Hannah for company and the shot sneaked past Phoebe. 1-2.
Hannah was slumped on the ground and it took a full three minutes to remove her from the bone hard pitch. The game was even more stretched than before now and the girls needed to fight for a point. Another case of lax closing down and marking was punished when a sweet drag-back inside an isolated Ione left Phoebe exposed and it was 1-3.
The girls summoned one last gasp and with three minutes plus injury time left, Eve went close, Marriyah ran out of space and Emmie caught the wrong side of the post. There were a few incidents that happened in these three minutes that would be wrong to document. The referee knows why he made certain decisions and as regards anything else, it always saddens the soul to see cynicism at such a tender age.
Finally the breakthrough came and MARRIYAH home from close range following a scramble where Sophie, Eve and Erin contributed touches. The allotted time was up, but with injury time for Hannah`s injury and the seemingly endless pauses to the game, we expected at least three or four minutes. Unfortunately the referee decreed that was it as soon as Blackpool kicked off and to all intents and purposes the better side on the day took the first points of the season from us, or rather won the points. The girls learnt a valuable lesson; they don’t have a divine right to win. There must be effort to go with the skill and they just fell a little short of Blackpool on the day.
We have had a little luck this season and on this occasion we hadn`t any. Fair play isn’t always rewarded and Blackpool are a side who will fight tooth and nail for the right to finish highest in this very competitive and quality strewn league. They deserved their celebrations and we wish them luck for the rest of the season.
F/T Blackpool 3 BCSC 2
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Hollie, Eve, Emmie, Erin, Sophie, Marriyah (2)
BCSC v Bury (home)
Posted on 08/01/2012 by Simon Smith
A New Year and the pressing question was `would it be the same old BCSC?` The presents had been put away, and so too had a few selection boxes and trifles by the looks of things. After a long layoff, the girls were eager to get back to playing football.
On a weekend where most games were called off, the pitch was in excellent condition and it was only the cold, the drizzle and the mist rolling in from the hills (isn`t that Mull Of Kintyre?), not to mention a Manchester derby on the box, that kept the crowd down to fifty or so.
This was our third meeting with Bury this season and the girls were only too aware of the task that faced them. BCSC were at full strength and despite earlier jibes about chocolate and trifle, they had not gone slovenly over the festive season.
Graeme and the Bury girls are always especially welcome at Lammack as they play with a love of the game, great fighting spirit and no little footballing prowess.
BCSC started as if they had never been away. The passing was slick, the team-work clearly visible through the fog and the movement excellent. A sharp shot from Sophie was blocked by the Bury keeper and from the resultant corner Eve went close with a deflected strike.
Emmie drove forward and the clearance fell to Eve who squared for a typically thunderous finish from HOLLIE. 1-0 BCSC.
BCSC didn`t have all their own way though. Bury play football the right way and sought to pass their way through. Firm tackles flew in on both sides with no quarter given and no complaints. The players dusted themselves down and carried on.
Ione and Hannah started moves from deep in their own half with intelligent balls and Emmie and Eve rained in crosses and shots, but the Bury keeper was, as always, in top form. Sophie again found herself in front of goal, but the keeper spread herself well and it remained 1-0.
Hollie fired three blistering shots just over and when Bury broke the BCSC defence Phoebe was quickly out to clear to safety.
Marriyah and Erin injected a bit of pace into proceedings and but for more clinical and earlier finishing, BCSC would have gone in at half time more than one goal to the good.
H/T BCSC 1 Bury 0
What is said at half time must remain between the manager and the players, but suffice to say it was hardly stirring stuff! The girls knew what they needed to improve on and although the passing in the first half was at times sublime; we now needed to be more direct in the last third.
The girls responded well to the chat and Erin in particular took hold of the attacking baton. The neat passing from the back had shifted to longer balls and as Eve gave chase, her tackle led to Hollie playing MARRIYAH in for the second, crucial, goal. 2-0.
Sophie, Erin and Emmie linked up for a series of shots all of which the Bury keeper kept out athletically.
A neat interchange with Emmie led to Eve crossing to Erin and when her cross was knocked out, Hannah found EVE who slalomed through to crash in the third. 3-0 BCSC.
This is the time when, in the past, legs have become somewhat weary in tracking back; 3-0 up and a whiff of goals in the nostrils, especially post-festivities. The girls have grown to understand the value of not conceding and drew on stamina to work hard for each other. Sophie pushed onto the last Bury defender and Erin, Marriyah and Eve ran their socks off and flitted wide to find space to create.
It was a clever touch up the line to Erin from Hannah that enabled the pocket rocket to swing in a first time cross to the back post which EMMIE read perfectly and busted a gut to meet with an accurate volley that sneaked in the near post. 4-0 BCSC.
The defensive side of the team had performed excellently; Phoebe keeping on her toes, Ione, Hollie and Hannah mopping up anything and everything and providing some searching throw-ins and it was a giant throw-in that released MARRYIAH to finish the scoring off. 5-0.
There was still time for Ione to make a mazy run down the right hand side and slip a shot under the keeper only for a goal line clearance to deny a rare goal. In the last minute of the game, the Bury keeper was urged forward to attempt a consolation goal, but the defence held firm and a long ball found Sophie with the ball one-on-one with a defender on the halfway line facing an empty goal. Marriyah made a lung bursting run from her own area in support, but great defending by the Bury player led to Sophie`s shot being blocked.
This was the final action and despite a host of chances in the first half and the score line, Bury proved they are an excellent team and are still in the hunt with us for league honours.
This week’s game is away at Blackpool. A 10:30 kick off on Saturday. This is a stern test of the girls and an even sterner one on my nerves. The girls may be nerveless and confident in the abilities of their team-mates and themselves (as am I). They may well have the hearts of lions, stomachs of granite and feet that can open tins of spaghetti hoops, but your humble reporter will be stockpiling the Bisodol and Night Nurse from Wednesday night onwards.
F/T BCSC 5 Bury 0
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Hollie(1), Eve (1), Emmie (1), Sophie, Erin, Marriyah (2)
BCSC v Preston North End (home)
Posted on 27/11/2011 by Simon Smith
The foul Blackburn weather meant that our home fixture with Preston North End had to be relocated to the slightly smaller `lower` pitch. BCSC were once more at full strength and looking to complete the double over a very strong Preston side.
The early stages saw the away side looking to force throw-ins and corner kicks as their midfield are extremely adept at firing these in. The defence of Ione and Hannah, enabled by Eve, Marriyah and Hollie in midfield defended these expertly and when the break came it was from a smooth passing move by BCSC which ended with a looping volley from MARRIYAH which rippled around the net to make it 1-0.
The pitch was not altogether suited for BCSC`s passing style, but it did also hinder the pace and aerial bombardment of the visitors. Hollie sent Sophie away and when her cross was charged down, her subsequent corner was poked home by MARRIYAH to give BCSC a 2-0 advantage before the ten minute mark.
This was the time that BCSC`s resilience was called for. Eve and Marriyah drove up and down the wide areas, Sophie closed down from the front and Hollie commanded the centre of the pitch. Phoebe covered her angles well and from a series of five corners, Ione blocked all of them, excepting one long, high and mighty attempt, before they could reach the danger area. Hannah was reading the game excellently from the back post, as was Eve, and they scuttled away with every long ball into the area.
Erin brought a freshness to the game and used her opponents strength against them as she twisted and turned. Emmie provided a spiky counterpoint to the attack and ground the Preston defence down with her runs.
H/T BCSC 2 Preston North End 0
The action was beginning to even out with Preston rampaging down the hill and BCSC defending resiliently and attempting to pass through the galloping hordes and counter attack. Eventually this bore fruit and a slick passing move led to EVE being fed in front of goal and her patient finish was as cool as Chilly the cucumber in a fridge in the Arctic. 3-0 BCSC.
Now the only things left in the Preston half were the keeper and the kitchen sink as they threw everything at BCSC. Marriyah made a series of driving runs which just ran out of space and Sophie hit the target with a fierce effort, but it was inevitable that Preston would get some reward and from, you guessed it, another corner, the Preston striker was the quickest to react and fire home for 3-1.
The minutes ebbed away and as Preston looked for a second, BCSC always looked capable of creating a fourth. Nerves jangled as, with what turned out to be the last action of the game, Preston almost nicked another. There were some tired legs out there, not least Hannah who played the last few minutes through a tightening leg muscle.
This was another valiant display from the girls as they again mixed desire, skill and team-work with 100% effort. As the players are becoming aware; it is amazing what you can achieve when no-one cares who takes the credit.
BCSC: Phoebe, Ione, Hannah, Hollie, Eve(1), Emmie, Sophie, Erin, Marriyah (2)
F/T BCSC 3 Preston North End 1
BCSC v Academy Juniors (away)
Posted on 20/11/2011 by Simon Smith
It was certainly misty as we made our way over the tops to Bromley Cross and an away day at Academy Juniors. Although as we dipped into the village, full vision was restored. All concerned hoped that the fog of last season`s defeat, which spoked the apparent free-wheel to league dominance, would now lift too.
Given the time of year and conditions, the pitch was certainly playable, if just as small and bumpy as we had remembered it last season. BCSC were at full strength and given instruction to recall how it felt last season to come away from here with nothing but soggy vests and muddy knees, and to pass calmly and accurately.
From the kick off this was adhered to perfectly; a five pass move almost breaking the deadlock. On the day it appeared as if it didn`t matter which seven were on the pitch, they were all on the same wavelength and that sat-nav we bought for the boots certainly worked. The fluency and weight of the passing conquered the bumpy pitch and the finishing was sublime.
Phoebe had little to do, but had to stay alert for a late thudding strike which she did well to keep out. Hannah showed again her calm and her ability not to mention her striking prowess, a class chip over the keeper being the goal of the match. Ione passed and passed and found reward with a fierce strike in the second half. Hollie led by example; bustling and harassing, spreading the play and instructing the troops as well as exhibiting her finishing skills. Eve was, as ever, a constant thorn in the side of the opposition. Unselfish, visionary and with a right foot like a claw when it comes to accuracy of shooting.
Emmie took the plaudits in a masterly display of predatory finishing in the first half, her adaptability showing in a second half defensive role. Sophie overcame illness to link up well with the midfield and her quality oozed through her one-twos, corners and short passes. Marriyah marked her reappearance with a goal within ten seconds of entering the field. Her constant buzzing around and pace adds a different dimension to the attack and her tireless work aided defensive causes too. Erin gave a fabulous display of wide play, her defensive ability is growing and her confidence in taking on players and looking for the cross/shot/pass marks her as the best young prospect around.
All in all, a great performance and one given in good sport. All the girls looked comfortable on the ball, the vision has improved too and if only the communication improved then I might not have any worries! The fifteen “pass” move was decoded as being Emmie (3), Hannah (3), Eve (2), Ione (2), Hollie (2), Marriyah (1), Sophie (1), Erin (1)
Academy Juniors 0 BCSC 4
BCSC v Woodbank (home)
Posted on 13/11/2011 by Simon Smith
This will be more of a `mid-term report` rather than a match report. For those not present, all I will say is that the girls conducted themselves with great dignity and sporting spirit and that BCSC won the game in a professional and sporting manner.
Congrats go to Phoebe and Hannah who scored their first goals of the season. All the goals were well worked and some of the patient build ups were especially good to watch. Woodbank are a team who are improving game by game and we wish them the very best for the remainder of the season.
I feel that all the girls have improved this season and perhaps they now understand that they are more than the sum of their parts. Phoebe has become more confident in her command of the defence and her box and has made some worldie saves already this season. We almost lost her in the summer and it would have been very difficult to replace her.
Hannah, Ione and Hollie have defended well and have had to learn that, this season, the strikers they are facing are better players than those they faced last season. Hannah has settled very quickly and reads the game well. She has brought a thoughtful element to the defence. Ione is dominant in the air, is an imposing presence and her contributions are underrated, not least, on occasion, by her tubby old dad. The defence have passed the ball well when appropriate and cleared the ball quickly at others, having found that playing in defence means that all your mistakes are magnified. All the girls in the squad have made mistakes. All the girls have learned from them, but it is to all these three girls`, and Phoebe`s, credit that they have been broad-shouldered enough to take responsibility and never hide. That is something we have improved on from last season. None of the girls blame any others for any errors and that is what we are looking for throughout the team.
In addition to her defensive cameos, Hollie has mostly played in midfield, captaining the side in the league and has, in the centre of the park, proved a swashbuckling replacement for the departed Evie. Marriyah has worked very hard in all her appearances, understanding the need to get back and aid the defence when we lose the ball. She is always hungry for goals and that is great to see. Eve is as hard working as she is skillful and is arguably the best all round player in the league. Eve has led by example and is cup captain. From first whistle to last, she has given everything and those last minute goals are knocking years off my life!
Erin is the youngest and newest in the squad and has belied this by settling quicker than snow on a roof and with two blockbusting goals already, making herself a reputation as a hard working, skillful wide player. Emmie has come on in leaps and bounds this year. Her goals are getting more regular, her commitment more fierce and Emmie`s positional sense and final delivery has improved ten fold. Sophie, in attack, has contributed some of the most vital goals, holds the ball up as well as anyone in Under 11s football and her coolness in front of goal and ability to bring others into the game marks her out in this league.
The attacking side of the game is of equal importance to the defending and the midfield have worked hard getting up and down this season.
Well done to the girls and I hope we can get a full turn out for the trip to Academy Juniors this week, one of only two teams to get a positive result against us last season. We will certainly be looking to make amends for that.
BCSC:- Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Hollie, Erin, Emmie, Eve, Sophie
BCSC v Bury FC Girls CUP (home)
Posted on 05/11/2011 by Simon Smith
All puns related to fireworks, rockets, sparklers and "lighting up the game" have been removed from this report.
The 5th of November began with a bang as BCSC entertained Bury Girls in the cup. The 2-1 victory at Bury had been hard fought and BCSC were under no illusions that this was to be a stern test.
This was proved to be the case as both sides gave no quarter in the opening minutes. Bury had not travelled here to hold out for a draw and both sides attacked from the off.
BCSC were playing attractive football, but with no end product. There was much to admire in the play; Hollie and Erin linking up to provide Sophie with a chance and Hannah slipping Eve through, although her shot was charged down.
A long ball from Hollie was met on the volley by Emmie and would have been a contender for goal of the season had the ball not just skimmed the far upright.
Halfway through the first half, Ione intercepted a pass and the ball ran to Eve who powered to the byline and cut back a cross for SOPHIE to hook home via a cruel deflection. 1-0 BCSC.
Dion was given a run out in midfield and was threatening when in attack. Emmie, as usual, hustled and bustled, not letting Bury settle on the ball. Phoebe was forced into an unorthodox clearance and her positioning was needed when Bury launched a long range effort which Phoebe blocked and then caught.
H/T BCSC 1 Bury 0
BCSC began the second half in much more spirited fashion and with Eve pulling the strings in the centre, Dion went close with a thumping shot. Erin, Emmie and Holie combined to create a neat passing triangle before Erin`s cross shot almost found Eve at the far post.
The pressure paid and from Erin`s corner, HOLLIE volleyed home for a vital second 2-0 BCSC.
Bury pushed forward, but Ione and Hannah were getting a foot, head and leg in to deny Bury the chance to reduce the arrears. Another mazy run from Erin found Sophie whose shot was deflected for a corner. From Sophie`s dead ball, the ball dropped to the spindly figure of IONE who crashed the ball in off the post from the edge of the area. 3-0 BCSC.
This is when the girls get a little too relaxed and despite the fact that to attack they had to travel up the slope and to defend they had to run down, it appeared as if they were running the wrong way down an escalator.
The game got stretched and Bury threw more players forward. Both defenders had a chance to clear before the Bury striker snaked a leg out and poked the ball in from a very tight angle. It was not undeserved. Bury had whittled away at BCSC and got some reward. 3-1 BCSC.
With time fast running out (we had played 29 minutes, or so we thought!) Bury launched another attack and BCSC were caught again with a 3 on 2 situation, Ione stretched too late to intercept and two Bury strikers advanced on Phoebe.
Phoebe did the right thing and advanced quickly then slowed, hoping the Bury striker would shoot, but in a good show of unselfishness, she squared the ball to her colleague. The pass appeared to skip off the wet surface and perhaps fall on the less desired (left) side of the Bury player and her shot just missed the post. A let off for BCSC.
The tiring midfield was bolstered (I had honestly thought we had played a few minutes extra even then) and there`s no show without Punch (sorry Miss Clarkson!) and EVE was sent on to keep the ball upfield and maybe nick a goal. This she did, as she broke free and picked her spot in the corner to seal the win. 4-1 BCSC.
This could have been a different result and I apologise to all parents and fans for my mistake in thinking time was up and that the game was over. I still have a lot to learn.
Bury played with energy, skill and a fair competitive nature. Unfortunately one of the Bury girls picked up a bruised leg in the final minutes and I know the girls wish her well and have asked about her. Graeme, the Bury manager, assures me that she is fine and just a little tender around the lower leg.
It`s always nice to play host to a pleasant set of girls, supporters and staff and I thank Graeme and his team for participating in another good advert for girls football. Bury are arguably, along with Preston North End, the most improved side this season and they were pretty good before that too!
The BCSC girls are finding this season that teams are harder to break down defensively and much more adept in attack. The team spirit is good and they are all working for each other. If this continues then whatever happens, this season will be a success.
Those of you who could bear to cast their eyes on my bleary phisog on Saturday will no doubt have seem the awful facial growth. This is not for the good of my health,m but it is for all men`s health, so please go to http://uk.movember.com/mospace/703336/
and pledge a couple of quid. It has to be worth it just to see me look such a goon.
Well done to the girls (Emmie, Eve and Ione) who turned up for the bucket collection. I heard from Paulette that all told the BCSC girls and parents raised £535. Well done to all the helpers including Pete Clarkson (when not in the pub) and especially the GLW, Laura who made cakes for the bonfire too (not that I saw any. Probably for the best *pats gutbucket*).
F/T BCSC 4 Bury 1
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione (1), Hollie (1), Eve (1), Emmie, Erin, Sophie (1), Dion
BCSC v Man City Ladies (home)
Posted on 29/10/2011 by Simon Smith
This was a fixture that many from BCSC Under 11s had highlighted in their diaries when the fixtures were announced. Man City Ladies are one of the best girls football set ups in the country and our girls were itching to pit themselves against them.
Parents took time off work. Industry ground to a halt. Children went without breakfasts and Eve, inevitably, was so excited, that she left her boots at home and had to return for them.
The nine girls available for selection were all keyed up and the team talk became more a harnessing of surplus energy than anything technical.
BCSC came out of the traps like greyhounds and piled the pressure on. Corner followed corner, but to no avail. The City defence was resolute.
When City did mount an attack they met impassive resistance from Ione and Hannah with new “League” captain, Hollie sat in front and a vocal Phoebe behind. The width of Marriyah and Eve was causing problems and Sophie was forcing the defence to turn with some intelligent balls. Hollie was getting box-to-box and the only problem was that BCSCs dominance had not yet yielded a goal.
All that changed midway through the first half when SOPHIE pounced on a loose ball in the box and turned on a sixpence to fire home the opener. 1-0 BCSC.
Erin and Emmie were introduced to inject some pace and fire into the game and a typically gutsy run from Emmie almost brought the second. Eve, Ione and Hollie were threatening from what seemed an incessant series of corners. Hannah was neat and tidy in defence and when Man City finally passed their way through the BCSC defences, Phoebe made an assured stop.
H/T BCSC 1 Man City 0
The second half commenced with a more attack minded Man City piling on the pressure. The gaps appeared though and Erin, Marriyah and Sophie combined to create a good chance which Sophie just couldn`t get her foot around enough to curl in.
Erin outpaced the defence to pull a good ball back for Hollie and Hannah played a long ball up the line which Emmie touched on for Marriyah to take, but again the City keeper made a good stop. Ione and Hollie both won vital headers, but it was inevitable that BCSC would be made to pay for their missed chances and lack of shooting and finally City equalised with a ferocious shot. 1-1.
The game was wide open and decisions had to be made whether to push forward and try and win the game or err on the side of caution and keep the point we had. City were coming on stronger and despite the driving runs of Marriyah and Eve, they were the team in the ascendency as the game ticked on.
How could this lot ever settle for a share of the spoils? Every single one of them is a born winner and there is no glory in a negative display. They were told before the game that they should win the game for Kelvin, and would let no-one down but their team mates if they didn`t give it everything and they seemed intent on that. Both sides drove forward looking for the win.
As the game drew to a close, it seemed that a humdinger of a game would end honours even. Every girl on the pitch seemed to have given all they could and who could ask for more?
One last time EVE picked up the ball. One last time she shimmied past a defender. One last time she tried to shimmy past another. And then ano…
No! This time she heeded the strangled cries from the side-lines and hit a bullet into the bottom corner. 2-1 BCSC. This girl makes you wait, but are they worth waiting for? Rhetorical question!
There was still time for City to mount one last attack, but they had found every BCSC player ready and willing to defend on the day and the shot was closed down and the rebound wide.
The whistle went and it was lucky seven (eight if we are counting the Cup) wins in a row. Man City can consider themselves to be unfortunate not to leave with a point. Having weathered the storm in the first half, they played very good football and Steve Spriggs has them playing the right way; committed but fair. We look forward to the return fixture.
Sadly, Kelvin Wilkins has decided to step down from team manager and leave the club. In order to keep some continuity, I have agreed to be the new manager with Mark as my assistant/co-manager. I hope that we can rely on your continued support.
The work Kelvin has done for the girls and the club has been exceptional and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. I know that Kelvin will continue to be BCSC Under 11s Blue`s most fervent supporter and if Mark and I can even emulate even a percentage of his success, patience and commitment to the girls personal growth, then we will be pleased.
I would personally like to thank him for making the handover as smooth and dignified as it could have been and for remaining at the club to ensure a `crossover ` period. I know he is regarded with something approaching legend status by the girls and the parents alike. His boots will be hard to fill. Not only because he is a size 8 and I am a big footed oaf.
F/T BCSC 2 Man City 1
Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Hollie, Marriyah, Eve (1), Emmie, Erin, Sophie (1)
BCSC v St Helens Town (away)
Posted on 23/10/2011 by Simon Smith
A pleasant day and a long trip to St Helens for our first league meeting with their girls.
The changing facilities and parent run `cafe` were credit to the home club and although the gut churning nerves about the game (and a Chicken Madras floating on top of a few Strongbows from the night earlier) meant I was unable to take advantage of the flavoursome `Scouse` on offer for a reasonable price, the tea was most welcome.
The pitch was thick with grass and not as large as the BCSC girls prefer, but was again well kept and a credit to the club.
There could be no complaints about the length of the turf as St Helens were the team playing the passing football early in the game. An early chance for Ione, as the ball spilled out from a corner, went narrowly wide and Sophie hit a trademark daisy cutter which skidded past the far post. St Helens continued to dominate and after forcing a corner with a brave parry from Phoebe, they took the lead, the ball dropping to a red shirt just three yards out. 0-1.
Patience was again the key and despite chances for Marriyah, Emmie and Sophie, it was St Helens who, looking strong on the break, nearly increased their lead. Two firm, but fair tackles from Hollie, and then Ione, denying the front two on both occasions.
Eve was skittling through the defence, but was unable to get the ball from under her and get a shot away on a number of occasions. Cristy and Erin combined to create a chance for Marriyah which the St Helens keeper tipped around the post and from Sophie`s corner HOLLIE forced the ball home for the equaliser. 1-1.
Despite this, the girls were still below par and the half time whistle could not come quick enough for BCSC as patience was running out on the sidelines!
H/T St Helens 1 BCSC 1
The half time team talk was based around reiterating what had been said before the game; the pitch being compact meant the girls needed to close down early, get a shot in early, pass rather than dribble and communicate. Raise the tempo of the game and the level of effort and the goal would come.
As per usual, all this went out of the window when, not long after the restart, the ball fell to a St Helens midfielder and she blasted an unstoppable goal into the top corner which Phoebe did exceptionally well to even get a fingertip on. 1-2.
With only ten minutes to go, it appeared to be one of those days. Erin thumped a cross shot onto the outside of the post and Cristy crept forward to poke a shot through which the keeper did well to spot. All the outfield players had runs curtailed by the defence or keeper and shot charged down.
But, you can`t write these girls off. Just as it appeared that they actually DID intend on only scoring by walking the ball into the net, EVE smashed a beauty of a shot from the edge of the area which hit the post and nestled inside the far corner of the net/post. 2-2 and the penny had dropped!
The game was fiercely competitive and both sides desire to win led to a rash challenge from BCSC and a free kick on the edge of the St Helens box. Given the precise, powerful manner of the St Helens No.5`s goal, BCSC had reason to worry.
The wall stood firm and Ione`s block sent Sophie sprinting away and her precise cross was chipped over the keeper by EVE after a lung bursting run from the wall to the opposition area. A valiant attempt at a clearance from the defender only helped the ball on its way. 3-2 and BCSC had the lead for the first time.
The advantage won, BCSC just got stronger and after a save by Phoebe, Hollie and Ione passed the ball out of defence before Hollie was upended by a challenge on the half way line. Hollie free kick was right on the money; on target, hit accurately and the keeper came out to punch clear but found only EVE`s trusty boot and she claimed her hat trick. 4-2 BCSC.
This knocked some of the stuffing out of St Helens and Marriyah and Erin utilised their pace to create chances for Cristy and Emmie. A slip through by Sophie was claimed by the keeper almost on the edge of the area, but Marriyah`s pace was such that she was unable to stop and caught the keeper for a clear free kick.
The keeper, despite limping slightly, pushed the ball forward a couple of yards and insisted on taking the free kick herself. It was a shame that her clearance went only a few yards and fell to the accurate boot of SOPHIE who curled the ball in over the keepers head to make it 5-2.
BCSC were rampant now and Eve`s cross reached Erin on the far post and her cross shot was turned in by a predatory EMMIE whose shot deflected off a defender. 6-2.
The euphoria of a goal must have infected Emmie as a minute later, she controlled a pass from Hollie with her back, the ball landing perfectly at her feet. Lionel Messi, eat your heart out!
The clock was ticking and it hadn`t gone unnoticed that one of the usual suspects wasn`t yet on the score-sheet. Those who hadn`t noticed were made aware by a fifty yard sprint into the box and the loudest shout of the day for a cross which, when Sophie`s attempt was charged down by a defender, led to a cry of anguish from Marriyah.
Less than sixty seconds later when MARRIYAH picked the ball up on the edge of her own area, there was no way on earth anyone could expect a pass. She ran in a straight line, bodies bouncing off her, as she ploughed towards the inevitable goal. 7-2 and a double fisted celebration and jump from `Nani`.
St Helens were unlucky in that the score didn`t reflect the game. They are a super passing side with a good goalkeeper and a will to win. On the day, the BCSC may have gone from 0-60 in as many minutes, but as ever, they revved it up and got to maximum speed.
Also, I am sure you will all share with me in wishing good luck for the future to our departing captain EVIE BARCLAY who has decided to leave the club to concentrate on her athletic career. She will be much missed by all the girls and the parents. Evie captained the side to league and cup success last season, has scored two vital goals this campaign and is a quietly spoken, unassuming girl who went about her football in a calm, unfussy and sporting manner. The door is always open for her here at BCSC and I hope she will be able to attend prize giving and presentation functions later in the season.
F/T St Helens 2 BCSC 7
Phoebe, Ione, Hollie (1), Emmie(1), Erin, Eve (3), Cristy, Marriyah (1), Sophie (1).
BCSC v Blackpool (home)
Posted on 15/10/2011 by Simon Smith
This was a fixture that was keenly awaited as Blackpool are a side that is going well in the league and all concerned knew that it would be a great spectacle for the fans.
The BCSC pitch was in excellent conditions. Praise, as ever, must go to those who maintain these almost professional level of surfaces. The sun was shining and once the game got underway, it was Blackpool`s slick passing that took the eye.
Sophie defended from the front and Erin, Hannah and Eve worked hard to close down and restrict the passing. Ione was winning everything that Blackpool threw at her and Hollie was Beckenbauer-esque in her sweeper role. Phoebe claimed everything that came her way and BCSC carried on trying to fight their way into the game.
The introduction of Evie evened the passing up as BCSC finally got a foothold in the game. The main chances were now falling to BCSC and only the insistence on taking on one player too many let them down.
Emmie carved out a chance for herself, but just could not dig it out from underneath her.
Just before the break Blackpool thought they had taken the lead, but it was disallowed for a foul on Hollie in the build up. Although the decision was, from our perspective, correct, the approach play and cool finish could not be denied and at half time, the girls were left under no illusions that it had been a let off.
H/T BCSC 0 Blackpool FC Girls 0
The second half started with BCSC kicking up hill and this forced a more slow build up then the downhill stampede! The passing had improved, the work rate was 100% and slowly, Eve stamped her authority on the game, Erin stepped up the pace, Sophie held up the ball and brought others into play and Hannah, Evie and Emmie got a foot in where it was needed.
The first goal was, it hardly needed saying, vital. Finally, the break came and it was for BCSC. A neat move led to a powerful shot which the Blackpool keeper did well to save, but before she could clasp her hands around it, SOPHIE nipped in to scoop it over her and into the net. 1-0 BCSC.
Given the disallowed Blackpool effort, the follow on contact could have been construed as reason to disallow this goal, but the referee correctly awarded a goal and the Blackpool girls and staff accepted this with good grace.
Blackpool came flying back at BCSC and the game was became very spread. Phoebe made a number of assured stops and Hollie and Hannah worked hard and took no chances. Blackpool committed to attack and a quick BCSC break led to SOPHIE collecting the ball, shifting to her right and firing a shot in off the post. 2-0 BCSC.
This was harsh on Blackpool who had, after all, had to gamble on an equaliser or conceding another with only 12 minutes of the 30 second half minutes to go.
One of the quirks of football is the vulnerability of a 2-0 lead that is only present in a 1-0 lead immediately after it is established. The feet came off the pedal, the finishing line was in sight and a failure to close down the talented Blackpool midfield led to a rocket shot which, I`m sure, is still burning Phoebe`s fingertips. Unfortunately the power forced it in and 2-1 it was.
Blackpool came again and although Erin, Eve and Sophie caught them on the break again, it came to nothing, again an insistence on walking the ball in leading to a block.
Ione and Hollie were soaking up the pressure as they had done all game, Evie was playing a captain`s role with her box-to-box runs and Phoebe`s instructions and good distribution held the girls firm during this period of peril.
There were six minutes left when Hannah turned sharply in her own area and limped off. When this was not spotted by the referee, both sets of girls immediately ushered the ball out.
Praise must go to Blackpool, especially their manager, for ensuring that the throw in was sent back to Phoebe. In such a tight match, with time running out, it maintained the sporting aspect of the game being played.
The cut and thrust continued, but the whistle went for a victory for BCSC.
This report may not be as intricate as usual. The main reason for this is that it is hard to describe such a magnificent advert for football. It was truly end to end stuff, both sides intent on winning.
I don`t want to labour the point, but the lack of histrionics, the determination and the lovely sight of Eve (BCSC) and Verity (Blackpool) shaking hands and chatting as we waited to resume the second half embodied the spirit of the game.
Praise must go to Blackpool for their part in a fine spectacle and for their grace in the face of a result that must have disappointed.
We wish them all the best for the season and look forward to the return fixture.
F/T BCSC 2 Blackpool 1
Phoebe, Ione, Hollie, Eve, Hannah, Erin, Emmie, Evie, Sophie (2).
BCSC v Bury (away)
Posted on 09/10/2011 by Simon Smith
Back to the slog of the league this week and as we travelled (some of us from Southport Pontins; desperately in need of entertainment that didn`t involve Morris Dancing or seventy Liver Birds on a 40th birthday screech) we found that our opponents today would also be our opponents at home in the next round of the cup, BCSC being one of the teams drawn out of the hat and not one of the five given a bye.
The bottom corner of the playing surface was being swept free of water as we arrived, a testament to the efforts of the Bury staff in ensuring the game went ahead. Unfortunately both teams were unable to warm up as well as they`d have hoped. We thank Graeme, the Bury manager, for his use of the practice ball!
The truncated warm up had an immediate effect on BCSC, if not on the home team, as an error immediately from the kick off led to Bury`s second touch of the ball being a goal. Phoebe did well to get hand on it, but it was too powerful. 0-1.
Last season, this would have been the sting to spur the girls into action and although it was on this occasion, Ione and Hannah in defence were left somewhat exposed by the need to attack. Chances were created and the Bury goalkeeper, who is amongst the best around anywhere in this age group, blocked shots from Sophie, Eve and Hollie.
A slick ball from Evie led to a Bury defender conceding a corner under pressure from Eve. The corner from Sophie was cleared, but only as far as Ione who crossed back in for HOLLIE to control skilfully and smash gleefully home for the equaliser. 1-1.
Marriyah was introduced and her impact was immediate as she broke through and almost gave BCSC the lead. A goal at this time would have settled the girls, but on the increasingly heavy pitch, coupled with a good goalkeeper, they tried to get ever closer before shooting whereupon the shots were easily smothered.
Hannah atoned for earlier with some good clearances whenever Ione misjudged the skip of the ball off the greasy surface and as the half drew to a close, it was still in the balance.
H/T Bury 1 BCSC 1
The second half started as the last had finished, with both teams intent on winning the game. Erin was using her speed to great effect and Eve was weaving her way through the Bury defence.
Emmie was hustling and making runs deep into the Bury half and the midfield was working harder to defend as well as attack.
Phoebe was especially commanding in the second period, her shouting, confidence and shot stopping was excellent and after a long ball had evaded Hannah and Hollie, she was off her line quickly to make a superb block with her chest.
Eve broke through and a less honest player would have succumbed to the challenge and demanded a penalty, Eve merely stumbled on and attempted the shot.
A poke through from Marriyah led to Sophie`s flick hitting the onrushing Bury keeper. Yet again, a less honest player would have let the momentum from the keeper knock her over for a penalty. BCSC go their reward for their honesty when Sophie was thrown off stride by a last ditch tackle as she lined up her shot. This time the ball bounced over the keeper and EVIE was on hand to finish the job.
She`s lethal from a yard! 2-1 BCSC.
Emmie, Hollie and Marriyah made some last ditch clearances and Erin once more burst past the defender to get a cross in which Sophie almost turned in.
Phoebe commanded her area and, as the final whistle went, it was BCSC who looked likeliest to add to their lead.
All in all, this was not the greatest performance of the season. However, all ten girls fought, hustled and attempted to play football when they could. Bury made a great contribution to the game and, as ever, were competitive.
These are the games you must win if you want to be amongst the top teams come the end of the season. Bury Girls are skillful, strong and unwilling to concede an inch.
I`m sure the girls are aware they are in for as tough a game on Saturday and we will have a clearer idea of our expectations come next Sunday, weather permitting.
F/T Bury 1 BCSC 2
Phoebe, Ione, Hannah, Hollie(1), Marriyah, Erin ,Evie (1), Eve, Emmie, Sophie
BCSC v Woodbank CUP (home)
Posted on 02/10/2011 by Simon Smith
All I would like to say this week is that the girls conducted themselves with dignity and the spirit of fair play and teamwork. Woodbank ran themselves into the ground from first whistle to last and everyone at BCSC wishes them well for the future. They didn`t let heads drop and played a hard and fair game. Their time will come.
I`d like to thank all ten BCSC girls for being honest in their answers as to goalscorers. Especially Sophie who scored two extremely vital goals for the Red team earlier in the day.
BCSC 19 Woodbank 0
BCSC:- Phoebe (clean sheet), Ione (1), Hannah (1), Emmie (2), Hollie (3), Marriyah (6), Eve (2), Dionne (3), Erin (1), Sophie.
BCSC v Burnley (away)
Posted on 24/09/2011 by Simon Smith
There are some games which managers/fans dread. These are not usually the `big` games where adrenalin is pumping and atmosphere is tangible, they are the games where you are expected to win, the games where maybe the players are going into it a little bit too laid back. The games you need to motivate beyond the call of duty.
Then there are games between Blackburn and Burnley. If you can`t get fired up for those, you need jump leads.
No one can deny this has been a turbulent week for BCSC Under 11s Blue and it was a relief to all, I think, to get back to what is the kernel of all our involvements; FOOTBALL!
The return of Hollie, Emmie and Eve was offset by the forced absences of Evie, Hannah and Kristy, but this is a strong squad and even the non-Blackburnians were champing at the bit to lock horns with Burnley.
Almost immediately, BCSC took control of the match and, in truth, never let go. The passing (ironically given the bumpiest playing surface we have encountered in a while) was assured and precise. Kelvin opted to give Marriyah the central midfield spot and she did not give the opposition a moments rest; fussing, bothering and hustling for the ball.
Sophie was working her socks off closing down from the front and ensuring that Burnley did not pass their way out of defence. Eve was tying the defence in knots with her pacy, close control and Emmie stripped the defender for pace time after time.
At the back, Hollie and Ione were tidy and confident in their passing and dominant in their defending. Phoebe had no saves to make early on, but what she did she did well and also passed with accuracy and no little vision.
It was only a matter of time and a good passing move led to EMMIE opening her account for the season with a typical poachers goal. If there is a more joyful sight in football than Emmie`s face after she has scored then I haven`t seen it. It even makes the father-in-law smile happily. 1-0 BCSC.
Burnley may well have made an attempt to come out and throw more players forward, but such was the trickery and strength of Eve that they were pinned back constantly. A slaloming run took her past four players before the wet surface did what they couldn`t and threw her off balance. Her next foray led to a fierce shot which MARRIYAH poked in to settle any nerves remaining. 2-0 BCSC.
If Burnley thought that Eve`s replacement by Erin was cause for respite then they were incorrect. This girl gives defenders twisted blood. BCSC were in total control and another neat, precise passing move led to a precise corner from Sophie which ricocheted off a Burnley player via IONE`s outstretched leg. She`ll claim that! 3-0.
HALF TIME:- Burnley 0 BCSC 3
The second half commenced with Kelvin instructing the girls to pass the ball with the same vision and confidence as in the first period. Tactical changes were made and again, the girls took control of the game. Burnley seemed intent on damage limitation and although BCSC had the lion`s share of possession, they met a crowded last third.
Burnley had upped their 50/50 ball winning ratio and a late lunge on Sophie led to her being upended in the box and the referee gave a penalty. Despite naive (and probably, in hindsight, unsporting) calls for Phoebe to take it (Guilty!), SOPHIE confidently stroked the ball into the bottom left corner for 4-0.
The girls adapted well to their change of positions. Hollie was spraying the ball with increasing assurance, Erin ran her defender ragged on the right and Ione played some incisive balls in to the area from the left. Emmie and Marriyah mopped up at the back and Eve and Sophie chased, closed down and played some probing passes into the path of the running wide players.
In the last five minutes or so, Burnley pushed on in search of a consolation and here Phoebe earned her `win bonus` (Player Power will set this at £2.50 a week before long) as she defied any attempts to sully her clean sheet.
The game fizzled out and as the final whistle blew, the girls could be pleased with a professional job.
In truth, BCSC bossed the game from first whistle to last and although, as was the case the week earlier, it was a very physical game (as you would expect from a derby game) except the penalty, there was not a foul worthy of the name in the match.
The first clean sheet of the season was also a cause for pleasure. Phoebe has played immensely well this season and every clean sheet is equivalent to a `goal` for her and the defence.
Three games, three wins and next week a break from league matters with a cup game. The girls will need little reminder of the euphoria in winning the cup last season and so, hopefully, will not take the opposition lightly.
FULL TIME:- Burnley 0 BCSC 4
BCSC:- Phoebe, Hollie, Ione (1), Marriyah (1), Eve, Emmie (1), Sophie (1pen), Erin
BCSC v Preston North End (away)
Posted on 17/09/2011 by Simon Smith
BCSC v Preston North End (away)
The rain was falling hard on the Ribble as we made our way to the lush pitches of the Preston Sports Arena. A much strengthened Preston side awaited us and BCSC were missing some important (aren`t they all?) players and staff.
The opening stages of the match were, to put it mildly, a torrential onslaught of Preston attacking, driving rain and desperate clearances. When chances came for Preston, Phoebe was equal to the task and wayward finishing, over-complicated trickery and the stoic defending of BCSC meant that they rode the storm.
When the girls did break out of their half, Marriyah, Sophie and Erin sought to run at the Preston defence and give the others some respite from the battering. Finally BCSC launched an attack and, as a speculative shot spilled out to the recently introduced CRISTY, she marked her first appearance (and indeed touch) of the season by showing the PNE girls how to finish. A smashed drive from ten yards making it 1-0 to the visitors.
This hit Preston hard and the remaining minutes of the first half saw a more level possession rate as Hannah, Ione and Evie finally got a breather from the downhill charge of the home team.
HALF TIME: Preston N.E 0 BCSC 1
As expected, the tide of white shirts pushed forward again as the game resumed and a series of corners led to an out-swinger being volleyed from the edge of the box by the Preston No.10 who was influential throughout. The BCSC travelling hordes could only stand and applaud such a great strike. 1-1 and the question was now how would the girls respond to this setback?
If you don`t know, then you have never seen these girls play. Far from this goal bleeding the fight from them, it stung them into action.
Preston moved in for the killer second goal, but great defensive work by Hannah and Ione, coupled with a spectacular save from Phoebe to tip the ball wide, kept the scores level until Preston over-committed to an attack and a raking ball from Sophie found Marriyah who ran with pace at the depleted Preston defence. Her shot was charged down, but as PNE scampered back, the ball fell to Erin some twenty yards out.
The saturating downpour was all worth it for that one moment. Your humble correspondent was stood directly behind ERIN as she addressed the ball firmly, but accurately, with the inside of her left foot. I was already hissing a `yesssss` as it left her boot. The fine spray from the turf as the ball bent around the defence, then spun back slightly as it hit the inside of the net only added to the pleasure. A wonderful finish and the lead was restored. 2-1 BCSC.
PNE again launched a tidal wave of four girl attacks, but through unorthodox, flailing or panicked means, the BCSC backline kept them out. This was a time for the captain to lead by example, and did she ever?! As the Preston midfield attempted another attack, EVIE B won the ball with a bone shaking tackle, belying her size and strode on to play a one-two before firing a net buster past the Preston keeper. 3-1.
PNE plodded on, committing more players forward, but through a mixture of defensive nerviness and fatigue, BCSC could not counter attack for the fourth goal. Some needless corners were conceded, some legs looked very tired and the shirts were soaked with hard work as well as rainwater. We couldn`t ask more than that they held on and finally the whistle went.
The impartial observer would, in addition to having viewed a great game and excellent advert for girls football containing great skill, passion, spirit and seventeen or so waterlogged children, correctly point out that Preston were very unlucky and on balance of play probably deserved something.
This report, however, is unashamedly biased. Goals win games and although Preston had four or so good players and a lot of the ball, BCSC had a full complement of players who were prepared to do the unglamourous stuff as well as the pretty passing. Preston have a strong side and will do well this season and I`m sure we all wish them well.
Final thought: I`m glad I brought me waterproofs and if only Rovers could beat Arsenal, it`ll be a great day!
FULL TIME: Preston North End 1 BCSC 3
BCSC:- Phoebe, Hannah, Ione, Erin (1), Evie (1), Marriyah, Sophie, Kristy (1)
BCSC v Wigan Athletic (home)
Posted on 10/09/2011 by Simon Smith
Has it really been so long?! The scent of freshly mown grass, mouldy boots and parental fear hangs heavy on the first game of the season. The fact it was Wigan Athletic hardly settled stomachs. Both victories last season were narrow affairs and games between the two tend to be tempestuous affairs, or fiery at best.
The change of home venue, and more importantly, pitch gave rise to expectations of a more footballing BCSC side this season. So many moves last season were broken down by uneven pitches.
The squad for this season has been significantly strengthened and Kelvin had a strong nine girls to select from.
Wigan won the toss and chose to change ends and kick down the slope first half and run up a lead they could defend in the second half. As was expected the opening stages were tentative and although the passing game led to a couple of early speculative efforts from Erin and Sophie, Wigan`s route-one style forced Hollie and Ione into a barrage of headers, blocks and crunching tackles.
Phoebe was wisely making accurate passes with her goal kicks and this passing thread carried on throughout the team. Evie, Erin and Eve in midfield increasingly took control, despite some fierce tackles and created a chance for Sophie which the Wigan keeper reacted well to. A stretch too far from Hollie led to her being forced into a breather and Eve settled into a defensive role.
Finally, the rearguard cracked. A long ball bounced and the Wigan striker took advantage with a toe poked goal. 0-1.
With just over five minutes to the break, 0-1 wasn`t a disastrous score to be going in at half time with, although keeping it at such was another matter, but rather than deflate the girls , it stung them into action.
Only a minute later, a decisive header by Ione was picked up by Evie who spread the play wide to Marriyah. Her driving run found Emmie in space and her second touch was a brave toe poke to Sophie and when her shot was spilled by the keeper, MARRIYAH was on hand to open her, and the team`s, account for the season. 1-1.
Erin grasped the nettle immediately after the restart and almost broke through three Wigan players with a driving run. Again, the defence mopped up a Wigan hoof with good communication and Phoebe`s hefty kick was battled for and won by Evie who set Eve on her way.
The Wigan defenders all backed off until EVE touched the ball gently to her right and hit a low daisy-cutter beyond the keeper. 2-1.
Hollie returned to the fray and made a crunching tackle which led to Marriyah trying her luck from distance and only just missing the target with the keeper beaten all ends up.
HALF TIME: BCSC 2 Wigan Athletic 1
With the Blackburn girls kicking down the slope and coming out after the break looking energetic and strong, the next goal was going to be crucial. The girls had settled into a good passing shape now; players making off the ball runs, spreading the ball wide and forcing a series of corners.
Wigan too were a threat at corners. They possess some big girls and, like BCSC, a good corner taker. The BCSC girls held firm and when the ball went long from these corners, Emmie, situated at the back post, was able to make forceful runs deep into the Wigan half. One of these led to a throw in five yards from the dead ball line.
The throw from Emmie was straight, flat and missed everyone except a joyful ERIN lurking at the back post. Her finish was tidy and a crucial goal was scored and created by the two smallest players on the pitch. 3-1.
The `next goal` was indeed crucial and as Wigan got a grip on the BCSC girls` bibs, the BCSC girls took a grip of the game and held it firmly. There was a possibility of a goal every time they went forward. Eve and Marriyah surged at them, Hollie and Evie carved them with precise passes and Ione and Phoebe repelled any attacks.
A tightly marked Sophie managed to turn and set MARRIYAH free and her pace and strength led to the killer goal. Her finish was confident and it was 4-1.
Kelvin moved the girls about a bit and they were oozing good technique and from a precise goal kick from Phoebe, a rampant Evie skipped through four challenges to fire a strike at goal and when it rebounded, SOPHIE slid it home for 5-1.
The Wigan girls had by now given up on defensive duties and piled forward looking for the consolation of a goal. A mishit corner sneaked in the near post off a BCSC leg and it was 5-2.
There followed a nervy couple of minutes as Wigan threw everything at them, but it was somewhat inevitable that the defence would not collapse. Anything which got past them was held with safe hands by Phoebe who commanded her area with a noisy confidence.
As another Wigan bombardment was terminated by a block, the ball spilled out to Eve.
And just as the glorious successful 2010/11 season ended, so the first game of the new campaign ended too; EVE speeding past like a blur, three BCSC players galloping, in vain support, behind her, all but one Wigan defender left in their wake and a thumping finish. 6-2
There was a knowing comment of "she should have saved that for the last game of the season!" from a parent, but whatever the position at the end of the season, if these girls play to their ability and confidence they can be sure they`ll be there or thereabouts.
What on earth does that phrase mean!
FULL TIME: BCSC 6 Wigan Athletic 2
BCSC; Phoebe, Hollie, Ione, Evie, Erin(1), Emmie, Eve (2), Marriyah (2), Sophie (1)