Under 12 Maroon vs Andover New Street Youth Vixen

U12 Cup

Today saw our U12 Maroon team successfully navigate their postponed Cup quarter-final against a strong Andover side, coming away with a well-deserved 3–1 victory to secure their place in the semi-finals!

Despite several players playing out of position due to illness, the team started the game much brighter than in recent fixtures. The opening 10 minutes were evenly matched, with both teams trading attacks against a well-organised Andover defence. However, once the team found their rhythm, they began to take control of the half.

The breakthrough arrived around the 15-minute mark when Megan found the back of the net with a well-placed shot, giving us the crucial lead. Buoyed by the goal, the girls' confidence soared, and their passing game truly started to click.

Just two minutes later, we should have doubled our advantage after Lili-Rose threaded a pinpoint, defence-splitting pass through to Megan, who was unlucky to fire just wide of the post. Our pressure soon paid off from a corner. Yasmeen whipped in a great delivery, and Ava M-W was perfectly positioned to head home, sending us into half-time with a deserved two-goal advantage.

The second half began much like the first ended, with our team controlling possession and creating numerous opportunities, though we initially lacked that final killer touch. Midway through the half, Andover managed to momentarily undo some of our hard work. After two superb saves by our keeper, Andover eventually converted on the third attempt after a brief lack of pressure in our box allowed them too much time to shoot.

The moment of relief came when Ava H netted our third goal, which effectively settled any nerves and ensured the final 10 minutes were far less tense.

In the pre-match briefing, we spoke about the importance of teamwork and how much stronger we are when we work together, and today this was executed very well at times. While there are still moments where we hold onto the ball for too long and invite unnecessary pressure, there was clear improvement across the pitch from every player.

A massive well done to Olivia for being named Player of the Match! Playing at centre-back for the entire game, Olivia gave everything as she always does—strong in the tackle, fearless, and never afraid to put her body on the line.

Keep up the great work, Olivia!

Bring on the Semi-Final!