Under 18 Performance Squad vs Queens Park Ladies

JPL Warriors Cup U18 Group 4

In a stark contrast to last week, we headed into today's match with only the bare 11, a significant challenge against a formidable and physical Queens Park Ladies (QPL) side. It was a tough battle, just as we expected.

The girls started the game with composure but struggled to create real chances. The blistering heat took its toll, and our tempo dropped noticeably. Passes went astray, and both work rate and communication waned. This lethargy was punished when a corner was cleared, and in a swift counter-attack, they found the back of the net to make it 1-0.

Just as it seemed we'd head into the break a goal down, we found an equalizer from nowhere. After a tireless effort all game, Matilda capitalized on a great break and calmly converted her chance, leveling the score at 1-1. However, our relief was short-lived. In the final moments of the half, QPL was awarded a free kick 30 yards out, and their strike beat Leya to put them back in front.

Following a fiery halftime talk, the team emerged with renewed purpose. It didn't take long for us to find an equalizer, with Annie finishing off a well-worked team move to bring the score to 2-2.

Not content with a draw, the girls pushed on. This time, Lauren showed her composure, coolly slotting home to give us the lead for the first time in the game, 2-3.

QPL pressed hard for an equalizer, but our defense held strong. We had a chance to put the game to bed when Annie was brought down in the box, an injury that forced her off the field. Lauren stepped up to take the penalty, but the QPL keeper guessed correctly, making a superb save to keep the score tight.

The pressure mounted in the final minutes, but after some last-ditch defending, the final whistle blew, sealing a hard-earned victory. It wasn't our best performance, but the win is what matters, and we move on to next week.

Player of the Match: Georgia. A fantastic second-half performance in the heart of the midfield.