Under 15 Performance vs AFC Portchester Youth Castles

Hampshire FA Girls U15 Cup

The U15 Performance team secured their place in the next round of the Hampshire FA County Cup this weekend, but it was a game that required a significant tactical shift and a massive show of character to overcome a testing start.

The match began with the girls uncharacteristically off the pace. Facing a disciplined and hard-working AFC Portchester Youth Castles side, the performance dipped below the standards this group has set for themselves throughout the season. Portchester’s work rate made it difficult to find a rhythm, leading to a frustrating opening period where we struggled to impose our usual game plan.

The half-time break proved to be the turning point. Following a strong team talk and a strategic change in formation, the girls returned to the pitch with renewed energy and purpose.

The impact was instantaneous. The second half saw a complete shift in momentum, with the team dominating possession and territory. We spent the vast majority of the half camped in the final third, relentless in our pressure on the AFC Portchester goal.

The sheer quality of the group was on display as they dismantled the opposition defence, firing home 6 goals in just 40 minutes. This scoring blitz served as a powerful reminder of the levels this team can reach when they play with consistency and intensity.

While the slow start provided some early nerves, the second-half response proved exactly why this team belongs in the business end of the County Cup. We now move into the semi-finals with momentum and a clear blueprint for success.

The player of the match was Ellie. Ellie controlled the game for all 80 minutes, demanding the ball and leading her team with total confidence.