After a halloweekend break, the L4s were ready to come back with a bang! Five of their previous six matches had been against the top league teams, so South were ready to face mid-table Spalding instead, who had a total opposite start to the season, having played the bottom half of the league table so far. 

The first 10 minutes saw South getting to grips with the game, unfortunately leading to a quick Spalding goal in the 6th minute. However, we quickly picked up our stride and after two short corners beautifully saved by Zoe, we properly began our attack. Lovely midfield play by Cat and Camille allowed the ball to reach our forward line, but several shots on goal just couldn’t reach the back of the net. More end-to-end play led to Spalding’s second goal in the 18th minute, but South stayed in high spirits and we weren’t going to give up yet. Elle utilised the wing giving Mo the chance to attack down the right and South won their first short corner. Although we couldn’t produce the very much building goal, our increasing presence in the Spalding D was causing tension among the backline and backchat to the Ref led to a Spalding Green card in the 25th minute. This was quickly followed by a yellow card to another Spalding player. South dominated the last 5 minutes of the half, but still a goal just couldn’t be produced! 

A positive half-time talk, with the sun finally showing-up, meant South started strong and the game became very even. Amazing defensive work by Shree, Ellie, Annabel, and Laurie prevented any Spalding short corners being upgraded to goals and their hit outs to Jess and Katy provided us with strong drives into the opposing half. However, two more Spalding goals managed to sneak in. Nonetheless, South continued to battle and Naomi and Amelia had more opportunities at goal. From seemingly nowhere, a quick turnover allowed a Spalding forward to drive into our half with Shree hot on her heels giving her all to prevent a fifth goal. Unfortunately, Shree’s determination led to an accidental trip-up and the Spalding forward was sent flying. The second yellow card of the game was shortly given out, this time to our very own captain :(. After a quick discussion, we re-arranged into a ten-player formation and conceded no further goals. The frustration continued to build on the Spalding side as South were still putting up a good fight and the fourth card of the game was dished out! 

The game ended 4-0 and although a win is always the aim, South didn’t allow Spalding to have anywhere near the 11 goals Spalding had achieved in two of their previous fixtures. LOM unsurprisingly was awarded to Shree, and I don’t think an explanation for why is required. POM votes went to Cat, Camille, Ellie, and Annabel, but it was Zoe’s amazing saves that gave her the winning title this week. It needs to be said that the league table definitely underrepresents South’s ability, so although no fireworks were seen this week (on the pitch at least), definitely keep watching!