Happy Halloween. Can South scare away St Ives, or will it be (All) Saints' Day?

With another strong line up and our coach James having turned up early to support from the sidelines for the first half before setting off for his far away game, we were hopeful of a good result. There was skilful play from South, including some excellent interceptions from defender Anna Carden who then held on to the ball for driving it up the line. More great tackles from Hannah Price , Avi Ibayan and Elly Bull in defence held back some of the attacks from St Ives. Lydia made lots of great saves, and when one of those was immediately collected for a rebound shot, Avi made a great diving save to stop an otherwise certain goal. Amy Rigby had an excellent debut match, with strong drives and passes in midfield to support the attack.

We were unlucky not to have a goal in the first half when Bex Jackson’s short corner strike towards the left post was deflected in by injector Louise but was unfortunately judged to have been just above backboard height. Evie Howell had another excellent game, confidently driving the ball up the pitch to threaten the St Ives goal.

Overall good play from South but every time there was a slip in man marking, St Ives took advantage. 4-nil down at half time, but we remained positive and confident.

The second half was a lot more even, putting greater pressure on St Ives goal. Bex finally got a well deserved goal, her first direct strike from a short corner. Following tips from James and Paul, South tried out the tactic of having a player stand in the opposition press on hit-outs, allowing the defender to hit through them. It’s definitely one to keep using, though will be more effective if Louise can manage to jump a bit higher! Rhian O’Connor and Liz Dunsby were everywhere in midfield, with determined drives and passes.

The 6s are beginning to gel together as a team and increase our confidence in each other. No points this time but an improved performance and the wins won’t be far away… once we can get back to playing again!