STARLANDS GO FOX HUNTING!
This week STARLANDS played Solihull Vixens at Aldridge School hoping to teach them a lesson – following a good weeks training, the girls were boosted by the return of Loris & Hannah. Thanks to their personal chauffeur who brought the girls to the game.
Starlands were missing their midfield terrier Martha – but all were ready to give it a 100% and hoping to register their first win.
From the off – Starlands were making good progress. They had a couple of corners in quick succession which gave the girls confidence.
They were working hard and trying to move the ball down the wings. However too often they were chasing the ball and failing to talk to each other.
Rachel, Starlands top scorer was unlucky not to get her shot on target following a first time ball by Georgia which split the defence.
Another great attack was worked down the right side by Hannah and Rachel. Just a little more composure was needed in front of goal.
Solihull were coming into the game and a shot hit the cross bar deflecting over.
Holly was kicking into the wind, but was managing to clear her lines. The Vixens defence allowed the ball to bounce and Samantha latched onto the long ball. Again, with a little more composure she may have worked the goalkeeper harder, but got a shot off on target.
Vixens goalkeepers kicking out of hand was equal to Holly, and with the wind this was causing all sorts of problems to Starlands. Vixens broke and only a last ditch tackle by Georgia prevented Vixens taking the lead.
Starlands were well and truly in this match – enjoying large periods of possession albeit not always under control – but giving encouragement and something to work on for the future.
Another long goalkeeper clearance bounced right through the middle of the defence, no-one taking responsibility or the bravery to head the ball.This allowed the Vixens centre forward to follow the bounce and then power past Holly, leaving her no chance.
The first half ended 1-0 to Vixens, but did not reflect a game in which Starlands were competing.
The second half was all Starlands, but yet again they failed to test the Vixens goalie. That was until a scramble in the box from a Starlands cross allowed Samantha to put her boot on the ball. Time stood still whilst the ball floated high over the goalkeeper. Would it go over….. or drop in time?....It was in! ....Starlands were back in the game – and the way things were going…It was Starlands that could smell blood and it was Vixens who were being hunted!
Vixens were still using their goalkeepers long kicks to great advantage, and Starlands were struggling to either sit back off and control or attack the ball before it bounced. Too many times they were giving away handballs as the ball bounced up and hit their arms.
Holly rushed out of her box, giving a confident call…she made the initial save. The referee failed to notice to the Vixens striker prevent her getting back to her goal line and the on rushing Vixens support buried the rebound.
Minutes left and a lack of concentration had allowed Vixens to take a 2-1 lead. Starlands were now chasing the game – and leaving themselves short at the back – however Sinead was having a controlled performance.
Hafsar and Hannah were pushing for the equaliser and Georgia had a great shot saved by the goalkeeper.Starlands were making use of Loris’great throw ins.
The inevitable of course happened…it had been coming. A long kick from the goalkeeper, a handball trying to defend gave away a free kick on the edge of the box.Vixens made no mistake, curled into the top left hand corner – It was now 3-1 and game over.
It is hard not to be deflated after another great effort and nothing to show for it. But, Starlands never deserved to lose this game. The girls are giving a 100% and showing signs of development.That first win WILL come! – Becky was obviously worried about getting a soaking this week so she went on Holiday!...so Come on Girls! LETS DO IT!!!! J
Girl of the game went to Sinead for a controlled and marshalled display in defence.
Goals: Samantha (1)
