In a gripping league clash at Gigg Lane on 6th October 2024, Bury FC Development Team faced off against Leigh Genesis Adult Football Club Ladies, with the match concluding in a 1-1 draw. The game kicked off at 3:15pm, showcasing a competitive spirit from both sides as they battled for crucial league points.
Bury lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a tactical setup designed to provide both defensive solidity and attacking flair. Ava Powell took her position in goal, while the back four comprised Eleanor Irvine on the right, Susan Howard and Jade Kilduff in central defence, and Hannah Skinner on the left. The midfield was anchored by Jane Mechen and Charlotte Pearson, providing a balance of creativity and defensive cover. Ahead of them, Paige Massey operated on the right, with Gemma Hodcroft in the central attacking role and Hermione Barlow on the left, supporting striker Daisi Daniels, who was tasked with leading the line.
The substitutes for Bury included Devon Booth, Gemma Kershaw, Fran Sharples, and Danielle Halliday, who would be called upon as the match unfolded.
The first half saw Leigh Genesis take the lead in the 27th minute, as they capitalised on a defensive lapse from Bury. A well-placed shot from the right foot of an opponent found the back of the net, sending a wave of disappointment through the home crowd. Bury, however, responded with determination, and just four minutes later, they equalised. Daisi Daniels, showcasing her striking prowess, scored with a right-footed effort following a brilliant long pass from Hermione Barlow, culminating in a well-executed team move that delighted the fans.
As the match progressed, Bury made their first substitution in the 38th minute, bringing on Devon Booth for Hermione Barlow in a tactical switch aimed at bolstering their attacking options. The half-time whistle blew shortly after, with the score level at 1-1.
The second half saw Bury continue to press for a winner, and in the 55th minute, they made another change, introducing Gemma Kershaw for Eleanor Irvine. This substitution aimed to inject fresh energy into the right flank. Five minutes later, Fran Sharples replaced Jane Mechen, further altering the midfield dynamic to enhance their attacking threat.
In the 64th minute, Danielle Halliday came on for Charlotte Pearson, as Bury sought to maintain their momentum and control the midfield. However, the tactical changes did not stop there; in the 75th minute, Hermione Barlow returned to the pitch, replacing Daisi Daniels, who had been instrumental in the equaliser but was substituted for tactical reasons.
As the match neared its conclusion, Bury faced an injury concern when Hannah Skinner had to be replaced by Daisi Daniels in the 81st minute. Despite the late changes, neither side could find the decisive goal, and the match ended in a stalemate.
Paige Massey was recognised for her outstanding performance, earning the Player of the Match accolade for her relentless work rate and creativity throughout the game. The draw leaves both teams with plenty to ponder as they look ahead to their next fixtures, each side having shown glimpses of their potential in a match that was as entertaining as it was competitive.
