In a thrilling league encounter at The Hathershaw College on 3rd November 2024, Bury FC Development Team secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against AFC Oldham 2005 Women’s Reserves. The match kicked off at 2:00pm, with both teams eager to claim vital points in the league standings.
Bury lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking play. Ava Powell took her place in goal, shielded by a back four comprising Eleanor Irvine on the right, Susan Howard and Katie Worsick in central defence, and Hannah Skinner on the left. The midfield duo of Rachel Todd and Charlotte Pearson was tasked with controlling the centre of the park, while Rubi Leach and Hermione Barlow operated as right and left attacking midfielders, respectively and Gemma Hodcroft in a central role. Daisi Daniels led the line as the lone striker, expected to convert chances into goals. The substitutes for the match included Natalie Kirk, Danielle Halliday, Danielle Halton, Fran Sharples, and Gemma Kershaw.
The match began with Bury asserting their dominance early on, and it was Daisi Daniels who opened the scoring in the 23rd minute. The striker found the back of the net with a well-placed shot using her right foot, sending the Bury supporters into raptures. However, the joy was short-lived as Charlotte Pearson had to be substituted shortly after due to injury, with Natalie Kirk coming on to replace her in the 28th minute.
As the first half progressed, Bury continued to apply pressure, but they were unable to extend their lead before the half-time whistle blew at 45 minutes. The tactical adjustments made by Bury were evident as they entered the second half with renewed energy.
The second half saw Bury make a tactical substitution at the start, bringing on Danielle Halliday for Rubi Leach. Further tactical substitutions were made in the 57th minute with Danielle Halton and Fran Sharples replacing Gemma Hodcroft and Rachel Todd respectively. However, it was AFC Oldham who struck back in the 60th minute, scoring with a right-footed effort that brought the score to 1-1, igniting hopes of a comeback for the visitors.
Bury responded to the equaliser with determination, and in the 62nd minute, they were forced to make another substitution as Ava Powell left the pitch due to injury, following a bang to the head, with Rachel Todd stepping in as the goalkeeper. This change did not deter Bury's momentum, as they continued to push forward.
In the 67th minute, Bury made a further change, introducing Gemma Kershaw for Hannah Skinner. The fresh legs provided an additional spark, and it was Daisi Daniels who once again became the hero for Bury. In the 70th minute, she was awarded a penalty after being fouled in the box. Daniels confidently converted the spot-kick with her right foot, restoring Bury's lead to 2-1.
As the match drew to a close, Bury held firm against any late pressure from AFC Oldham, showcasing their resilience and tactical discipline. The final whistle confirmed a well-deserved victory for Bury FC Development Team, with Rachel Todd earning accolades for her outstanding performance throughout the match. This victory not only boosts Bury's confidence but also solidifies their position in the league as they look forward to their next challenge.
