Under 11 Performance Squad vs Inspire Girls Football Academy

JPL Warriors Cup U12 Group 5

A tough challenge faced the girls today as they went up against a team already allocated to the JPL Warriors Premier Division. It was always going to be a difficult match.

We started strong, going toe-to-toe with Inspire, but struggled to break through their solid midfield and defence. The deadlock was eventually broken from a corner, when we failed to clear the ball, and one of their players squeezed a shot in at the near post.

The second quarter saw more of the same, with two very similar goals conceded from throw-ins. The size and strength of the older girls allowed them to push through our defence, scoring two well-taken goals out of reach of our keeper, Paisley, leaving us 3-0 down at halftime.

Going into the third quarter, our girls didn't give up and continued to battle hard. A fourth goal for Inspire came from their standout player, who made a great run through the middle and confidently struck the ball into the top corner. However, we responded just a few minutes later! Lily timed her run perfectly off the defender's shoulder, showed great strength to hold onto the ball, and got us a goal back. The score was 4-1 going into the final quarter.

The girls continued to fight in the final quarter, but it wasn't to be. The final goal came from an outstanding long-range strike from one of Inspire's midfielders, ending the game in a 5-1 loss.

Today was a big ask, playing one of the top teams in the South from a year up. Despite the loss, the girls showed immense determination. What they may lack in size and strength right now, they definitely make up for in grit. They should be proud of their performance and carry that confidence into next week's match.

Elsie was named Player of the Match today. Elsie showed a huge amount of grit and determination, taking on a midfielder who not only towered over her but was very skilful and difficult to contain. She never gave up and held her own throughout the game. A fantastic performance!