Battling Victory for the Storm

Well, that was a bruiser! All the better that we won then because anything less would have made the nicks and bruises we suffered hurt just that little bit more. It was nice to finally score a goal on Gorge because we had a stinker the first time we played them and the last match at Hampton Park was frustrating after dominating possession. That was a hard-fought win ladies, a real battle from start to finish.

Positives first. We played with a lot of intensity and energy and more than matched Gorge's commitment to winning the ball. We scored two very different goals, but both came as a result of winning the ball and making quick, smart decisions after gaining possession. Our defence was excellent, particularly Lily and Holly, and our fullbacks (Margaret, Marissa, Mia and Annabel) supported the forwards with nice through balls and good defensive positioning. I also liked how our attacking midfielders (Emma especially) got forward to get some shots on goal. Our goals were excellent, especially Chloe's well executed left-foot shot from Paige's fast low centreing pass. Not sure who got the final touch to the second but either Olivia or Brooke would be deserving after strong outings. And, not to be missed, Mia made a great face-save in the first-half after we gifted Gorge possession in our eighteen. Guts. Mara showed what a tough cookie she is after taking a high-tackle to the knee.

Areas needing improvement. Our free kicks didnt have the loft or distance to get past the first defender and we gave possession away as a result. Communication. Too often we had two players converging on the ball and getting in each others way. Remember, one player must always take command of the situation. Usually this is the player closest to the ball or, when players are equally close, the player who is moving toward the opposition goal, not going back toward's ours. Heading. Our defensive headers were good, attacking headers not so good. If our forwards can learn to use their heads we will score more goals. Simple as that.

So now we recuperate and prepare for what will be a very tough match against Peninsula. We will definately need to have a full compliment of players and be fully fit to take on the league leaders. As a result so you can expect a different sort of practice Tuesday :-)

Enjoy your weekend!