Going into the match, we were apprehensive about the outcome. Our previous encounter with Bourne Deeping had ended in a narrow 1-0 loss, and with a new formation in play, we weren’t sure how things would unfold.

However, from the first whistle, we came out strong, applying relentless pressure on their defence by passing through the middle and out wide to our forward line. Within minutes, we had our first shot on goal! But despite our strong attacking presence, Bourne Deeping managed to break through our press, sending the ball dangerously into our D. Just eight minutes in, against the run of play, the Dragons scored the opening goal.

Determined not to let this dampen our spirits, we regrouped and fought back. The team kept up the intensity whilst encouraging each other, making clear calls, and moving the ball effectively around their quick players. Our attacking efforts paid off when we pushed the ball into their D with pace. Their keeper deflected it straight into Rittman, who was perfectly positioned to pick the ball from the air and send it into the back of the net. The score was now level at 1-1!

With our confidence growing, the new formation started to click and we gelled as a team. The remainder of the first half was intense, with both sides battling for the lead. Unfortunately, in the very last minute of the half, Bourne Deeping found a way through, taking a 2-1 lead into halftime.

Enter the halftime magic: a bag of super sweets. My husband had been tasked with obtaining match-day fuel and somehow ended up with a massive 1kg of pick-n-mix. We devoured them while discussing what was working and where we could improve.

Fueled by sugar and determination, we stormed into the second half. Our defence, Amelia, Nicole, and Rebecca stood firm, refusing to let Bourne Deeping anywhere near our goal. Pedzi, our rock in goal, kept us in check with instructions and motivation. Our momentum led to an early short corner, which Rittman converted with another cracking goal. 2-2!

With the game wide open, we pushed forward, creating more chances. A standout moment came when Amy drove the ball from midfield to the baseline, stepped into the D, and smashed a shot towards goal. Their keeper barely managed to save it.

Minutes later, our midfields, Fi, Harriet, Polly, and Lyra worked the ball up the pitch. Fi delivered a perfect pass to me just outside the D. Stepping forward, I hit a reverse stick shot, catching the goalkeeper off guard. As we both stood momentarily stunned, the ball rolled into the bottom right corner of the goal. 3-2 to us!

With 15 minutes left, the game became frantic. Bourne Deeping threw everything they had at us. Despite their fast players and powerful hits, our defence held strong. Molly made some brilliant tackles, denying them crucial opportunities, and Pedzi pulled off incredible saves to maintain our lead.

As the clock ticked down to five minutes, exhaustion set in, but we fought to secure our victory. The defensive line, along with Fi and Polly, worked tirelessly to clear the ball. I picked it up and launched it into the D, hoping for the best. After a tense scramble, Holly picked the ball after a goalie deflection and smashed the ball into the backboard—her first goal of the season!

With just two minutes to go, we finally breathed a sigh of relief. At 4-2 up, we felt we had sealed the win. The final whistle blew and we celebrated an incredible team performance.

In the post-match chaos, exhaustion got the better of me and I completely forgot to lead the three cheers, one of my crucial captain duties! Luckily, the team stepped in but I rightfully earned the lemon vote for that one.

On a brighter note, I somehow walked away with Player of the Match for my reverse stick goal and relentless running.

A massive thank you to everyone for an amazing performance, to Coach Chris for his sideline support and halftime motivation, and, of course, to the legendary bag of sweets that fueled our comeback!