Whatever happens this season, this game will be remembered as one of the best displays of the whole year as it had everything and was a brilliant advert for girls football. A win for either side would have been unjust given the effort, skill, bravery and determination put in by all of the girls on both sides.
Waverton lined up in a usual formation with Lucie in the nets; Kiera, Elia and Rebecca in the middle and Caitlin up front. Lily volunteered to start on the bench. Upton included former Wallasey League's player of the year Aira Templeman, who has played very well against us in the past.
A good start from the home side could have resulted in an early goal but it Upton who got the advantage when an unmarked player poked the ball past Lucie into the net. A great response from the home side though when immediately Elia equalised. The rest of the game was end to end stuff but in the second half Waverton took a clear advantage and looked to have the game sealed going up to 5-3 at one point. Lily scored a fantastic goal just after the interval, definite candidate for the goal of the season following great work from the team. Lily picked up the ball in the centre of midfield and hit a strong high shot into the net from way out. Her goal celebration was a joy to behold. Caitlin completed her hatrick with a lovely tap into the right corner at the end of another attack.
Upton had other ideas and not only came back to equalise, they nicked the lead with just minutes left to take it to 6-7 as the home side tired. Lucie made a brilliant save to keep another goal out and she is getting better and better every week.
With the clock ticking to full time, Caitlin picked up the ball wide left and tried to pass it beyond the defender. Caitlin though was taken out by the defender winning a free kick on the wide left. With Mike looking at the stopwatch and only seconds left, he sent all outfield players up into the attack, leaving two Upton players puzzled as they remained up front. Kiera took the kick and Ellie got onto the end of it and poked the ball home sending the home girls into celebration.
Great game. All played really well and the team is really geling together. The new girls Elia, Lucie and Rebecca are all improving so fast. Rebecca was excellent in putting herself around today and was very unlucky not to score. It's a great team and we have a great season to look forward to with one win, one draw and one defeat so far this campaign. We have Lauren, Molly and Kate to come into the squad as well.
Aira from Upton got hurt in a tackle and was taken to hospital afterwards but she was checked over and no damage was found. She'll need a rest for a couple of weeks but we hope to see her get back on the pitch as soon as possible.
Player of the match - for Waverton Kiera, and for Upton Emily Sullivan who had a great game wide on the right.
Training this Tursday instead of Wednesday. Apologies but it's to do with coaches availability. If you can't make it don't worry.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend. Well deserved.
