Bury FC Development Team faced off against Cherrybrook FC Ladies at Gigg Lane on 10 November 2024, with the match kicking off at 1:15pm. Despite a spirited 2nd half performance, Bury succumbed to a 2-1 defeat in this league encounter, leaving them with much to ponder as they look to improve in future fixtures.
Bury lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Ava Powell took her place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Hannah Skinner on the left, Katie Worsick and Jade Kilduff in central defence, and Eleanor Irvine on the right. The midfield duo of Rachel Todd and Charlotte Pearson was tasked with controlling the centre of the park, while the attacking trio featured Danielle Halliday on the right, Gemma Hodcroft in the central role, and Hermione Barlow on the left, supporting lone striker Daisi Daniels.
The substitutes for Bury included Danielle Halton, Natalie Kirk, Rubi Leach, Devon Booth, and Gemma Kershaw, who would be called upon as the match progressed.
The match began with Cherrybrook FC Ladies taking the initiative, as Bury were very slow coming out of the blocks, and they struck first in the 15th minute. A well-placed shot from inside the box found the back of the net, putting Bury on the back foot early in the contest.
In the 26th minute, Bury were forced into a substitution as Daisi Daniels was replaced by Danielle Halton due to injury.
As the first half drew to a close, neither side created many chances in scrappy game. Bury made tactical changes at the start of the second half, bringing on Natalie Kirk for Rachel Todd and Rubi Leach for Danielle Halliday, aiming to inject fresh energy into their midfield and attack.
The second half commenced with renewed vigour from Bury, and just two minutes in, they found an equaliser. Rubi Leach, who had only just entered the fray, scored a well-timed goal inside the box, assisted by a precise cross from Hermione Barlow. This was the first time Bury had looked to get the ball down and play and it paid off. The goal ignited hopes of a victory for the home side.
And Bury continued to push for a second goal, making further tactical adjustments in the 65th minute with the introduction of Devon Booth for Hannah Skinner and bringing Daisi Daniels back on for Gemma Hodcroft.
However, the momentum was short-lived as Cherrybrook responded with a goal of their own in the 76th minute, regaining the lead with another right-footed effort that left Bury's defence scrambling.
As the match entered its final stages, Bury made their last substitution in the 80th minute, with Gemma Kershaw replacing Katie Worsick, but despite their efforts, they could not find a way back into the game.
The referee, Nathanael Hutchinson, brought the match to a close, leaving Bury FC Development Team to reflect on a below par performance that ultimately ended in disappointment. Charlotte Pearson stood out as the Player of the Match, showcasing her skills and determination throughout the encounter.
