The last friendly in the L3s preparation for the 2022/23 season saw us facing Blueharts 2s – a strong Div 2 side – exactly the type of opposition we need to be ready for.

We started well, with good work through the middle from Anna L, Indi, Lou and Cait up to the forwards Tiff, Anna W, Steph and Katy. It didn’t feel as though the defence, led by Captain Suzi, were troubled much in the first few minutes, which was good as we were getting used to a new formation.

As the game progressed, both teams did some good stuff and both teams made a few pre-season errors. Notable good stuff included: Cait with skillful play and an almost goal over the keeper’s head, only to be saved off the line by a defender; Emma for great defending; Hannah for good positioning and positive support of the team; Lucy for solid defending and running the line; Anna L for always providing options; Lydia for fab saves and Anna W and Steph for beating their markers with skillful dribbling.

Fitness started to affect our game towards the end, with some desperate balls and allowing Blueharts too much space and time on the ball to attack. There was also a very good, but very own, goal to put Blueharts two goals up and seal the loss for South. Not entirely sure how the goal happened, but I’m sure one of the umpires will be able to add in the detail should they wish…