The end of something

The end of the season is always a time of mixed emotions. Time to look back on happy times during the season, have a laugh about the many funny moments (and there were certainly many of them), reflect on some very good performances and recognise the bonds and friendships that have built up. But as we look forward to our summer holidays, we are also saddened by the inevitable break up of the team. It happens each season, but still does us in.

So Wednesday night's meal and presentation only seemed to accentuate the happy and sadness of our emotions. Individually the girls were thinking, 'we will be back in September? ', 'who else is returning?' One, and we know who, was thinking that it would be so unfair to not be allowed back with the team come September. Some others were thinking their future was maybe elsewhere, some had clearly decided it definitely was.

Although at the time the season seems long and never ending, looking back it doesn't seem that drawn out. The early season games in which we excelled against the folding Vicars Cross and the very good Upton were highlights before the winter kicked in. The comeback against Upton was as good as it gets, and Lily's goal celebration will remain a joyous memory. Kate and Lauren came and stayed, Laura came and didn't stay. Emma got badly injured in training and missed a few weeks in the really hard period in mid winter. Lucie excelled continually in goal. Caitlin kept putting them in the net when she played and Ellie, Kiera, Elia and Lily all ran their socks off every Saturday and created chance after chance. Rebecca kept running and smiling.

As we emerged into Spring we got better and stronger. The win at Wirral Hawks in April was fantastic, and the first half football was sublime just Ellie's sprained ankle the cloud on the morning. The weakened side who played against Ridgewood at home the same month was brilliant and to come back and snatch it at the death was top quality. Then Ellie, Kiera, Lily and Lauren played 30 mins later for the u16s and must have been dead on their feet that afternoon.

And so that is how it ends, on a rainy July night at the Ring of Bells. A presentation of individual trophies, photos for posterity and a round of applause for all their efforts.

Thank you girls. Have a good summer.

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We need to get those who are staying at Waverton to sign on before 22 July. As said previously if don't register 7 players by the end of July, we are out of the League.

a) Fill in a club registration form (off website or from Mike)

b) Return to Mike completed with cheque for subscription for 2011/12

c) The IMPORTANT BIT - fill in a registration form for the Wallasey Junior League - available from Mike and given out already to current u14s.

d) Return to Mike with 2 passport photos by Thurs 21 July at the very latest.

Mikes number is 07901552261

2011/12 u16s Pre season training starts at Waverton on Wednesday 17 August 7-8.

Follow us on Twitter over the summer - @afcwaverton

Climbing Trees

Great day at Go Ape. See everyone on Wednesday evening.

We need to get those who are staying with us signed up. If we don't get 7 players registered by 22 July we will not have a team in the League for 2011/12. We blagged our way out of only having 5 signed on by end of July last year, we will not be allowed to do so again, the League will simply throw us out. You will need to: a) complete club registration form and pay subs b) complete Wallasey League registration form including 2 new passport photos. c) hand everything to Mike. Forms will be given out on Wednesday.

More Monkey Business, Pizzas and Presentations

Can those confirmed (Kate, Kiera, Ellie, Emma, Lily and Rebecca together with Rick, Lisa and Mike) please meet at Delamere at 10:15 on Sunday for Go Ape. More details below.

After the Go Ape we will have a bit of a picnic and others are welcome to join us. This will be about 1pm. Just bring some food and treats.

Pizza and Presentation night is Weds 6 July - so far only Kiera, Lily, Lucie, Rebecca and Ellie have confirmed. We cannot eat all those pizzas. Can others please confirm asap. Meet at the Ring of Bells at 7. Presentations at 8:15. Parents welcome then. We really could do with getting in registrations then too. Further details to follow but you will need two passport photos.

What time do I need to arrive?

Make your way to the Go Ape cabin and be ready to get going on your Go Ape adventure at your booked time. Late arrivals that miss their session will be charged at full price. Allow plenty of timeas it may take considerably longer than you think to drive into the forest, park and get to the Go Ape cabin, particularly on busy days when traffic queuing is more likely. At most sites you’ll have to pay for parking. This is because car parks are managed by forest owners, not us. Parking charges vary from course to course and can change at any time, so bring plenty of loose change.

What should I wear?

We suggest that you wear something you don’t mind getting grubby. Dress for the weather so bring along a mac if it’s raining! Please wear appropriate footwear with soles with good grips. No sandals or slip-off shoes. Some people recommend thin gloves. Long hair must be tied back.

Can I bring my camera/camcorder?

Yes you can! Getting a camera into the trees is straightforward. Talk to the guys at the Go Ape cabin and they’ll kit you out with a lanyard so that you and your camera are always attached – safer for everyone (Please note that lanyards are available to purchase for £2 at the Go Ape cabin).

Are there storage or changing facilities?

We don’t provide anywhere to store your belongings. There are toilets on site where you can change before and after your Go Ape experience.

What happens in bad weather?

Go Ape is an excellent wet weather activity! The course remains open in all weathers, except when it is icy, stormy or during lightning. Rain makes the course muddier than usual – which all adds to the fun! Don’t forget to dress for the weather.

Up in the Trees

How long does the course take?

The Go Ape adventure takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and that includes your safety briefing.

Is there a time limit to complete the course?

Nope, you can go at your own pace and let people ‘overtake’ if you fancy taking a little more time over an obstacle or section. If you want to reduce the chance of being held up by people in front of you, we recommend that you book an early morning slot, as there will be fewer people ahead of you.

Swinging Safety

Is it safe?

Go Ape! courses are substantial and physically testing tree-top obstacle courses. There is inevitably a risk of injury when undertaking such activities. Participants will be responsible for attaching themselves to the safety system. If you do not attach yourself to the safety system you risk falling, which could result in a serious or fatal injury. However, the courses and operating procedures are inspected annually by Jacobs (specialist engineering inspectors) and Harraway Tree Services. All participants receive a safety briefing from a trained instructor at the start and have to wear a safety harness at all times.

Is there an instructor with you on the course?

You will receive a 30 minute safety briefing and training from an instructor before you start the course. After that you’re on your own, free to swing through the trees. Of course, instructors are always on hand, regularly patrolling the forests (not in monkey suits unfortunately!)

I’m afraid of heights!

If you’re worried about your knees knocking and your arms trembling – never fear; Go Ape is here and we are proud to have helped lots of people to conquer their fear of heights. Why not give it a try – you might surprise yourself!

Do I need to be fit or strong?

Doing Go Ape does require a degree of physical fitness but if you can climb up a rope ladder you should be fine. You can always catch your breath between obstacles.

What happens if I get stuck?

Our instructors will come to your rescue! They have specialist equipment to lower you safely back to the ground.

What if I fall?

Your safety harness will catch you. Then you can regain your footing and continue having fun!

Is Go Ape insured?

Yes; Go Ape holds £10m of public liability Insurance covering all of its courses.

What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

The staff at Go Ape are not medically qualified and so are not in a position to assess the capacity of participants to undertake a course. It remains your responsibility to undertake such an assessment prior to use of the course. We advise you to visit the course prior to booking to undertake your own risk assessment. You may also wish to contact your doctor for further advice.

Monkey business, Pizzas, and Presentations

Go Ape is booked for the 6 girls who confirmed - Kiera, Ellie, Kate, Emma, Rebecca and Lily. Meet at Delamere at 10:15 on Sunday 3 July. We shall have a picnic in the woods afterwards and everyone is welcome even if not go apeing including parents.

The Pizza and Presentation night at the Ring of Bells is booked for Wednesday 6 July at 7pm. All those girls who have not yet confirmed please do so as so far only the following have: Lucie, Kiera, Ellie, Rebecca and Lily.

We will be requiring girls to complete registration forms for next season. We hope everyone will sign on again.

We have been talking to the FA about putting together an u18s team to play in the brand new u18 girls Cheshire League. This looks a real possibility for 2012/13. This is for girls aged 15-18. It is possible therefore that we could keep the same team together all the way to age 18. More details to follow.

The Festival

Thanks very much to all the girls and parents who supported the event this morning. It was a great turnout and we will have raised some money for the club but also shown to the other managers and the Chairman that we are a big part of this club and the girls set up is strong. This will benefit us with getting continued funding and support from the club.

In the tournament, congratulations to the orange bib side and thanks to all the girls who took part in the penalty shootout.

For some unknown reason, there was no section in the programme regarding the u14 girls, despite text being sent through. So here is what was sent to the programme editor:

AFC Waverton u14 Girls

Another good season for the u14 girls team in the 7 a side Wallasey Junior League. Because of the double age bands the team is made up of half Y8 and half Y9 girls and always takes time to gel as the composition changes every season. We've had some great games this season including a fantastic 7-7 draw with Upton in early October and a tremendous run in at the end of the season when we won at Wirral Hawks 5-1, drew with Greenleas in a thrilling 2-2 encounter and beat Ridgewood Rangers 5-4 in the last home game, a truly stunning advert for the girls game with football as good as you will see at junior level anywhere. The bad weather in the winter provided some challenging conditions but the girls stuck to the task admirably. In goal, Lucie Parkinson was a real star voted player of the match by the opposition more times than anyone else and her consistent bravery and agility showed she is clearly the best keeper in the League. Caitlin Brooks ended up leading goalscorer once again with 18 amazing since she can only play every other game and Rebecca Bower topped the most appearances table, missing just one of the 22 competitive matches all season. Lily Worden scored the goal of the season, a screaming long range effort against Upton, whilst once again squad captain Kiera Berry consistently dominated the middle of the park. Elia Williams demonstrated her tricky skills every week, Ellie Riste and Emma Harrison were solid at the back and new girls Lauren Walsh and Kate Pulford came on in leaps and bounds towards the end of the campaign. Don't let anyone believe the girls game is weak , three of our girls had to make appearances in A&E this season but all came straight back for more. They are real tough cookies. The girls have been an absolute pleasure to work with all season, have a tremendous spirit, and they should all be proud of what they have achieved.

Mike Worden and Heather Scheuber

Remember Weds 6 July is the Pizza and Presentation evening at the Ring of Bells. We're also looking at a day out before the end of term. Ideas were discussed this morning. Watch this space.

Waverton Festival This Saturday.

UPDATE - To clarify:

Girls are only required 10:15-11:30 as this is when our match is. Stay on as long as you like however.
Cost is £5 per player - reasons why below
Wear your kit - this is not a training event
Support the activities outside of our game time - buy the programme, food etc
Allow time - we will have hundreds of people there during the day and you may have to park some distance away
Parent volunteers still needed

Show that the girls set up is a big part of the club and that we support the fundraising efforts that we benefit from


The Waverton Football Festival will take place this Saturday, all day on the field. There will be a series of games and events for all registered club players. The purpose is to mark the end of the season, raise money for the club and our Romanian charity and to show off our diverse nature with over 300 players turning out in yellow shirts.

Our game will take place for an hour between 10:30 and 11:30. These times are strict other teams will be on after us. Please meet at 10:15 and be warned it will be very busy. There will be BBQ, games, food and drink stalls, penalty shoot outs, raffles etc. Cost is £5 per player payable on the day. A special programme has been produced.

Confirmed are Lucie, Elia, Kate, Lauren, Ellie, Rebecca and Lily. From the u16s Sophie, Ellie and Olivia will join us.

Tournament cancelled/Festival/Presentations/the future

Apologies for lack of texts over the last week and for not responding to any sent to me, but my phone was left in Wembley last Saturday. Its last ever text was 'Our u14s would not let in two soft goals like England have just done'. Would Lucie have done better than Hart? Definitely. Would Emma and Ellie watch the ball drift over their heads like Rio did? No chance.

Disappointingly the organisers have this week called off the Halesowen Tournament next Sunday (19 June) It was a great event last year and they hope to run it next season, but have had to cancel this time. We have tried to get into another tournament being run in Warrington on the same day, but that is full for our age group. We are sorry therefore that the 6 girls who had said they were on for it will be disappointed.

The annual Waverton Football Festival will go ahead next Saturday 18 June. All girls are asked to attend for a game between 10:30-11:30. Cost is £5 per player. Please meet at Waverton at 10:15, the timings are critical. The whole club will be turning out and it is vital that we show our faces and our skills to everyone. All girls are required to attend as it enables the club to keep our fees down. We have just ordered a brand new kit and training equipment for next season and these events mean we don't have to pass that cost onto you directly. Referees fees for the last year for the u14 girls have topped £200 plus we have subsidised the indoor training which cost us £24/week. This year too we will be making a donation to a Romanian Orphanage which we have a link to. Please attend and take part in the events - penalty shootout, BBQ, games, etc as well as our football match. We need a volunteer parent to do car parking duties 9-10. Any volunteers?

As a result of the tournament being cancelled, and that only 3 u14s came last week, we have cancelled this Monday (13 June) training session. That will be it for training until we start back at the end of August.

On Wednesday 6 July we have a Presentation and Pizza night at the Ring of Bells. Please let me know who is coming asap. Parents welcome. This will be the final formal club event and a way to celebrate the great season we have had.

Some of the girls have talked about a day out. Alton Towers has been mentioned, as has other places. Please let me know how much interest and support there is for such a trip, but weekends before school holidays are getting fewer.

Finally, next season. I'm trying to talk to parents regarding next season's plans. We have to register the team in the League and will need a minimum of 7 girls to have signed up before the start of the holidays for both u14 and u16. Please let me know what your thoughts and intentions are, but by the time of the Presentation night we could do with all signings sorted.

Nearly there but not quiet

Nearly there, just a few more things to do before we pack up our football boots and head off to the beach for the summer.

First up is the June training sessions. Back for the first two Mondays in June, 6 and 13, 7-8 at Waverton. No messing these will be a couple of serious sessions.

On Saturday 18 June we have the Waverton Football Festival. This is when the whole club turns out to show off who we are and what we do, whilst trying to make a bit of money to keep our subs down. More details to follow, but all girls across the whole years are expected to turn out for the morning. If there is interest we can have a girls v mums game, something which has been talked about in the past.

On Sunday 19 June we have the Halas Hawks tournament which this year will be held in Stourbridge. This is a 5 a side tournament that we enjoyed last year. We will take a limited squad so to avoid players travelling a long way and then only getting a small amount of time on the field. We know some of the girls were frustrated at Sandbach and felt they should have played more minutes, but there was little we could do when we had 3 subs every 10 minute game. We therefore will only look to take 6 players, 7 max. We have 5 definites confirmed (Lucie, Kiera, Elia, Ellie and Lily) so only one more needed to make up the squad. Please let Mike know if interested asap.

Then we have two further events. We want to hold a pizza and presentation evening at the Ring of Bells one Wednesday evening before we break up. We suggest Wednesday 6 July at 6:30.

Finally the girls have talked about a day out to celebrate the end of the season. Alton Towers, Manley Mere, Go Ape and a trip to the beach have been mentioned. We need some feedback and ideas on this from girls and parents as there will be commitments relating to time and cost. We suggest either Sunday 10 or Sunday 17 July.

10 minute spells

"Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it's the courage to continue that counts"

9 yellow shirts, 9 black shorts, 17 black socks and one sky blue sock (just explain that one to us again Ellie), descended on a Sandbach School field to enter into end of season combat with girls from Crewe and Nantwich, Halton, Manor (Wallasey) and Crossfields (absolutely no idea from where but it sounds like a builder merchants in Middlewich).

Oh it is so tricky with having to pick 6 players and 3 subs, except of course that one of the 6 will be super Lucie.

"Me!"

"It's got to be me Mike!"

"I was here first"

"I'm the tallest"

"I'm the oldest"

"I live in Waverton, you don't"

"I'll tell Mum"

With the tent up, ice creams planned and water taken on board, the first game was against the smart pink and black outfitted Crewe and Nantwich girls. The most experienced line up was sent out, Lucie, Lily, Kiera, Elia, Ellie, and Emma and what a splendid job they did. They were on top for most of the game but fell to a last minute scramble from a corner. Undeserved, but with 10 minute games we have to take our chances and not let the opponents take theirs.

The second game saw the introduction of the other players against our Wallasey League foes Manor. A fairly even game for much of the 10 minutes but 2 goals to the good for the Wirral folk at the end. In the break, Emma's little brother complained that Kiera was pushing him. All nine girls wanted to start the next match.

Next up were Halton, a game we had to win to have any chance of progressing. A very even game overall and a fair 0-0 but given its significance it felt like a defeat.

The final encounter was against Crossfields, probably the tallest girls in the competition. The team selected themselves, literally. Again very even until a late goal did for us.

And so that was it. Au revoir Sandbach. Most of the girls felt deflated but they all gave their best and were always in a fairly even encounter. It was so close such is the nature of short burst football and as a team we are no worse than any of the four teams we met today. We should be proud of how well we have developed and recognise the League we play in is very strong on the Wirral. Not a bad way to see out the last few hours of life on planet earth.

Some girls went off for an ice cream. Emma was dejected and wandered off to pack her suncream. Others helped pack the team tent up and we headed home. Good luck to the u12 girls there tomorrow.

We have an opportunity to take part in the Halesowen tournament again this year. Sunday June 19, the day after the Waverton Football Festival (again as last year). It is 5 a side and it might not be possible nor desirable to take a big squad unless players accept that they will spend time on the sidelines. More details on here soon, but we will be looking for a firm commitment.

No training for the next two Mondays, as we shall have our half term break. We shall train again on Mondays in June until the tournament and that will be our absolute end of the football season, with just the celebration event left. We're looking at Saturday 10/Sunday 11 July to do something.

2011 5-a-side Tournament Entry Form

18^th/19^th June 2011

We invite you to the 22nd annual Halas Hawks 5-a-side football competition, which will be held at Stourbridge Rugby Football Club, Bridgnorth Road, Stourbridge, DY7 6QZ. The event continues to be very popular and clubs are asked to apply early as positions will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Please note there is a fee of £25 for each team entered with all cheques made payable to Halas Hawks Junior Football Club. Age groups are as per 2010/11 season. Please complete the details below.

NB: For U7s & U8s we will be holding a round robin football festival. All participants will receive a memento of the day.

……………………………….

Those little biting things

Upton 6 - AFC Waverton 0

Not the end of season game we were hoping for but at least it was great to see a joint u12/u14 team working together in black and yellow. We've seen the future. Well done to Jodie, Ellen, Charlotte and Izzy who joined Kate, Emma, Lily, Rebecca and Lauren. For the first time since the Gabi and Darcy days, two sisters played in the same Waverton team, Lily and Ellen.

The ground was hard, the pitch was small and the midges were biting. However it was far better to staying in and watching Corrie. Wow those throw ins of Emmas are something special aren't they? Think we have a game plan for Saturday. Delap Harrison bring your towel.

Player of the match - Kate for a fine goal keeping display, for Upton, Emily Sullivan.

Upton away and Sandbach

This Thursday we have our final game of the season in the League, away at Upton. Kate, Emma, Lily Rebecca and possibly Lauren, will be joined by 3 u12s and Upton will also play a mixed team. Meet 6:30 for a 6:45 ko. Anybody needing a lift let Mike know on 07901552261. Take M53 to J2 go along the spur and take first slip off it, up to the junction, turn left and Overchurch School is about 1/4 mile on the left hand side.

The first of two tournaments takes place this Saturday at Sandbach. Meet at Sandbach Boys School at 12:40. Games ko at 1. It is 6 a side, we have a squad of 8 - Kate, Lily, Kiera, Emma, Ellie, Elia, Rebecca and Lucie. Anybody needing a lift or wanting to share please contact Mike. The cost of entry is £5 per player. Mike has already paid this so will collect from the girls on Saturday.

Details below. All players please study the rules as they differ from our League rules, mainly the 6 second time allowance for the goalkeepers to hold the ball- watch out Lucie and help her out team!

Your registration is 12.30pm on Saturday 21st May with the tournament commencing at 1pm prompt

The rules and team sheet for the competition are attached please complete team sheet and hand in at registration on the day of your tournament.

The address of venue is Sandbach Boys School, Crewe Road, Sandbach, CW11 3NS

Please advise all your parents and supporters the following school rules and to satisfy health and safety precautions

. There are to be no BBQ's on the site. The Club will run two official BBQ's.

. There is a strict code of no alcohol on the site.

. Toilets: Following last years tournament the school was besieged by complaints from neighbouring houses of children using the hedges. Toilets are provided so there is no excuse. Any team seen using the hedges as toilets will removed from the competition.

. Please make parents and supporters aware there will be a £2 entrance fee for a programme.

. Please refrain from erecting a gazebo in front of the admin tent. A clear line of sight is required from the admin tent over the surrounding pitches also during finals the players parade from the admin tent on to the first pitch.

Thank you again for entering the competition and hope you have an enjoyable day.

Regards

Myles Hanlon

Tournament Organiser.

SANDBACH UNITED FESTIVAL OF FOOTBALL

RULES 21st & 22nd May 2011

1. MANAGEMENT OF THE COMPETITION

The Tournament Organising Committee will adjudicate in all cases of dispute, protest and Complaint.

2. QUALIFICATION AND DECLARATION OF PLAYERS.

2a) All teams will be required to report at least thirty minutes before the start of the competition, irrespective of the schedule time of their first match. Up to ten players may be declared for each team except for under 11 & 12 boys U14 Girls where up to 9 players may be declared.

2b) All players should be bona fide amateur members of their club and should meet the required age qualification as at 1st September 2010. Should any reasonable query arise relating to a player’s age, proof of that player’s date of birth will be required. Players registered with academies or schools of excellence are not eligible to play in the tournament.

2c) Team Managers should ensure that they have a change of strip available for use in the event of a clash of colours (bibs are accepted). If this occurs the away team will be required to change.

2d) Teams MUST be affiliated to their respective County Football Association and have at least the minimum insurance requirement as dictated by their respective County Football Association.

3. PLAYERS EQUIPMENT

3a) Football boots or Trainers shall be allowed.

3b) The wearing of shin guards, covered by stockings is compulsory.

3c) The wearing of jewelry including ear-rings during a game is forbidden.

3d) For safety reasons extra footballs will not be allowed. Any footballs being used that are not part of the competition will be held by the tournament organising committee and returned at the end of the age group competition or when the team leaves the competition whichever occurs first.

4.FIELD OF PLAY

4a) Each pitch will be a maximum size 60 yards long and 40 yards wide, The pitch sizes may be within 10% of this criteria but not larger. The penalty area will be 18 yards wide and 10 yards deep.

4b) The goal size will be 12ft x 6ft.

4c) A size 3 ball will be used for under 7s & 8s and a size 4 ball for under 9s, 10s, 11s, 12s, and girls.

4d) No person other than the manager and one assistant and the players and substitutes will be allowed on the pitch side of the rope. All substitutes and substituted players must wear a different colour if they are not on the pitch playing.

5. COMPETITION

5a) There will be no competition for Under 7s & 8s all teams will play on a round robin basis with no scores recorded. Each player taking part at Under 7 & 8 will receive a medal when all fixtures are completed. A trophy will be awarded by the tournament committee to the team considered to be the most sporting and fair.

Seven players including the goalkeeper are allowed on the field of play at any one time except for Under 11 and 12 boys U14 Girls where six players including the goalkeeper are allowed on the field of play at any one time. A maximum of three substitutes can be used during the game when there is a suitable stoppage in play and with the referee’s permission. Substitutes may be made on a roll on roll off basis I.e. a player substituted may come back on to the field of play at a later point in the game.

5b) In the qualifying competition for U9, U10, U11 U12 and Girls three points will be awarded for a win, two points for a score draw and one point for a no score draw. In the event of two teams finishing with an equal number of points for a qualifying place, the qualifier will be decided by the following, in order:

1b) The result of the two affected teams, if there are 3 or more teams start with goal difference.

2b) Goal Difference

3b) Goals Scored

4b) Play Off: Each team starts with 1 player less and will loose a player every 1 minute upto a minimum of three a side until a goal is scored.

5b) Quarter Final, Semi Final and Final. Time allowance will be decided on the day of the tournament and may be different to each individual age group. Should the scores be equal at the end of normal time, then extra time will take place to rule (4) as above.

6) Any team failing to report for a match on time will forfeit that match, which will be awarded to their opponents by a 2-0 score.

6 PLAYING RULES

6a) Play will start and re-start after a goal has been scored with a centre kick which must be passed forward, the ball must be touched by another player before the person taking the centre kick can touch the ball again, opposition players must be a minimum distance of 5 yards from the centre when the kick is taken.

6b) Any player may enter the penalty area, any foul committed by the defending team in their own area will result in a penalty kick. The goalkeeper may touch the ball with their hands anywhere in the penalty area, and are permitted to take as many steps as they like with the ball in their hands in the penalty area. Any goalkeeper holding on to the ball for more than 6 seconds will result in a direct free kick being awarded on the penalty area line parallel to the goal line at the nearest point to where the offence was committed.

6c) Goalkeepers may use any method to put the ball back into play.

6d) Goal kicks are to be taken from any point within the penalty area by the defending team. All opposing players must stand outside the penalty area at least five yards away from the ball.

6e) A goalkeeper cannot pick up a back pass (except for u7 & u8) If a goalkeeper picks up a back pass a direct free kick will be awarded on the penalty area line parallel to the goal line to the nearest point to where the offence was committed.

6f) Opposing players must stand at least 5 yards from the ball at free kicks, all free kicks are direct.

6g) Penalty kicks will be taken from the goal line opposite the centre of the goal. Distance will be determined as per age group with a minimum of 7 and a maximum of 10 yards from the goal line.

6h) At corners opposing players must stand at least five yards from the ball.

6i) There is no offside.

6j) Throw ins should be over arm and within the laws of the game, referees will allow a degree of flexibility unless foul throw ins are persistently being made.

Each team manager is responsible for providing their team with a first aid kit.

ALL GAME SHOULD BE PLAYED WITHIN THE SMALL SIDED SPIRIT AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MID-CHESHIRE YOUTH LEAGUE CODE OF CONDUCT AS PROVIDED TO YOU WITH YOUR APPLICATION.

7. OFFICIALS

7a) Registered referees where possible will be appointed, at the conclusion of each game the referee shall be responsible for notifying the Tournament Organising Committee via the pitch steward of the result.

7b) Time keeping will be the sole responsibility of the Referee, time will be added on for stoppages only at the discretion of the Referee.

8. MISCONDUCT

8a) Any player receiving two cautions, dismissed from the field of play by the Referee during a match, or reported by the Referee for misconduct before or after a match, must change out of kit and will not be permitted to take any further part in the competition. Additionally the Tournament Organising Committee reserves the right to expel any team from the competition, on the event of serious misconduct of players, officials or spectators connected with that team.

8b) All cases of misconduct will be reported to the Cheshire County F A.

8c) Any player, official or spectator found to have damaged any property will be deemed to be guilty of serious misconduct and will be expelled from the competition. The club concerned may also be charged with failing to control their players/spectators.

9.TROPHIES

9a) The presentation for each competition will take place immediately after the final has been completed. All members of the winning team’s squad and runners-up squad will receive individual awards. The winning team will also receive a trophy.

9b) Any player excluded from the competition under rule 8a shall NOT be entitled to receive any award in respect of that competition.

10. PROTESTS AND COMPLAINTS.10a) All questions of eligibility, qualification of players or interpretation of the rules shall be referred to the Tournament Organising Committee, but no objection relative to the dimensions of the playing area or other appurtenances thereon shall be entertained by the Tournament Organising Committee unless a protest has been lodged with the Referee before the commencement of the game.

Happy hour again

AFC Waverton 5 - Ridgewood Rangers 4

What a fantastic match to end the home season on. End to end, lots of passion, commitment and running from two teams withouts subs. The only sad thing is that it will probably be Ridgewood's last ever match, as the number of girls left playing for the club has reached such a low level that they are likely to fold.

5 girls arrived on time ready for the early 9am kick off. Where was the sixth? Waiting to hear the whistle from her bedroom? Just as we kicked off, Lauren rushed through the gate and sprinted to the game still eating her breakfast.

With ever present Lucie not present and Emma, Caitlin and Kate all away, the team was down to a bare 6. Ellie offered to start off in goal leaving Lily, Kiera, Elia, Rebecca and last minute Lauren outfield. A diamond of 1-3-1 for the tacticians.

Minutes into the game though the visitors took the lead when a ball wasn't cleared properly and the red shirted Rangers slipped into the net from close range. Elia though was playing really strongly and as she went forward her shot was challenged by a defender but it looped goalwards and into the net. 1-1 and back in it.

Lily went in the nets after another visitors goal and made some excellent saves and the team looked more solid and became more familar with only having 5 outfielders. Lauren and Rebecca were non stop runners covering the attack and defence whilst Kiera and Elia were more the play makers. Ellie in fit for the day Man City socks covered the back on her own. Kiera grabbed a goal back but Ridgewood got another goal to take a 3-2 lead into the interval.

In the second half Lily stayed on in goal before giving way to Kiera and then the dead on her feet Elia. All of the goal keepers played brilliantly and all made crucial saves. Lily , who was playing brilliantly, grabbed a goal back, then Ridgewood scored and then Ellie got another from close range despite the heroic efforts of the visitors defence. Rebecca had a brilliant shot meeting a low cross from the right perfectly but her effort was inches wide. Lauren was so close to getting on the mark too with an excellent effort.

A draw then was on the cards until the final minutes when with Waverton pressing, Kiera scored what she at the time thought was the equaliser but was in fact the winner. The final seconds were played out by 12 shattered girls but the referee blew the whistle and Waverton had won its second game in a month and extended its unbeaten run to the best ever. The girls dropped to the ground and all had given their all.

The game was played in a brilliant spirit and a fantastic way to end the home campaign.

Player of the match was once again, Elia and for Ridgewood Molly Brewster.

Lauren, Lily, Ellie and Kiera stayed on afterwards for bacon butties and to play in the u16s game v Greenleas. All made great contributions to that team with Kiera voted player of the match. Ellie hurt her ankle again in that game and will be out of the games this week.

With Ellie's injury we only have four player available for the game on Tuesday against Birkenhead Youth at the Delph. We have therefore decided to concede it, disappointing given our current run of form, but we can't play with only 4 girls. On Thursday we only have 4 girls too for our game against Upton (ko 6:45 at Overchurch School, Upton), but we are hoping to bring at least a couple of our current u12 girls along too. We will let everyone know.

In the light of the cancellation of Tuesday's game we will run with training this Monday, 7-8 at Waverton, where again some of the u16s will join us. Hopefully we will play our final League game on Thursday and then we have the Sandbach tournament on Saturday. We all need to be there for 1pm. More information on here later. Lifts offered.

Confirmed squad for Thursday - Lily, Emma, Kate, Rebecca.

Confirmed squad for Sandbach - Emma, Lucie, Lily, Ellie (subject to fitness test), Caitlin, Elia Rebecca, and Kate.

We need to start making arrangements for next season and have to put in details of our teams for 2011/12. We intend to enter u16 and u14 teams but not u12 as we are lacking in players. We will talking to all parents and girls about their intentions for next season but we hope everyone will be back playing for us next season.

We also need to think about our end of season celebration. The girls are still talking about Alton Towers!

Ridgewood Rangers game is early kick off

The final home game of the season against Ridgewood Rangers will now kick off at 9:00 to enable the away team coaches to get back for a boys final at 11. Boys eh? They always mess us around don't they?

So, a bright and early start for us. Please meet at Waverton by 8:50. We are missing this season's ever present, Lucie, so we'll need to cover the goal keeping position between us.

Help appreciated with set up as at the moment its just Mike. We will leave it up at the end for the u16s but setting up is going be for us to do.

We are definitely in the Sandbach Tournament on Sat 21 May. All girls will need to be there by 1pm. More details to follow. Confirmed squad - Emma, Lucie, Lily, Rebecca, Caitlin, Elia, Ellie, Kate.

Remember to follow the girls team on twitter = @afcwaverton

Ooh, aaah, listen can you hear it?

Greenleas 2 - AFC Waverton 2

The residents of the houses around St Georges School in Wallasey would have had their Saturday morning quiet punctuated by an hour of "oooh", "aaah", "go on", "yes" "no" etc, such was the excitement. One of them would have their quiet disturbed by a ball nearly hitting their window. It was a great game, another good advert for girls football, and another good encounter with Greenleas.

As the team warmed up, they sang 'Happy Birthday' to Elia, last week's player of the match missing to celebrate with her family, but not forgotten. Ellie was on the subs bench but unlikely to play given her still sore ankle.

The subs selection was done on a toss of a coin with Lily losing out. The team lined up: Lucie still angry from the non-goal last week in the goal with the hole (a big huge hole on the goal line); Kate and Emma at the back; the midfield trio of Rebecca, Kiera and Lauren and surprise visitor Caitlin up front.

Waverton took the initiative with an attack down the right and it soon led to a breakthrough with Kiera putting the ball into the net. 1-0.

Greenleas came back into it and equalised and took the lead soon after. The first was a good goal but the second was a defensive mix up which finished up with Lucie saving a close range shot, scrambling to save it on the ground, but her momentum carried her back into the net holding the ball.

Waverton continued to pepper the home end. Lauren would have scored the goal of the season connecting well from a cross from the right but her shot went over the top. Lily went close, Rebecca went close, Caitlin was inches wide, then inches over, before Kiera picked up a ball on the edge of the box and hit a high firm shot over the keeper and into the net. 2-2 and back in it. At the other end, Emma was unhappy but was doing fine. Kate was playing brilliantly, easily her best game, getting more and more confident and strong as the game went on. Some of her tackles were very well timed.

The half time talk was about keeping things simple and that the game was there for the taking. Rebecca came off with Lauren back on. Kiera had a brilliant chance when she ran through the middle and clashed with the keeper just as she was about to put the ball in the net. It was so brave and she got injured. Caitlin went close again, but too often we were having snatched shots. In training they'd have been buried.

Right to the very end it could have gone either way although it was Waverton who looked stronger. A succession of corners near the whistle put pressure on the home side, but they defended very well.

It ended even, a fair result for all girls on the pitch. If all games were like this, we'd be charging for watching.

Player of the match, Caitlin and for Greenleas Lucy Jones.

Training resumes again on Monday night. 7-8 at Waverton.

Greenleas 2- AFC Waverton 2

Great game at Wallasey and so many chances. Two goals from Kiera, the second being an absolute screamer. Good display all round including an excellent defensive performance from Kate. Player of the match - Caitlin. Report to follow.

Game v Greenleas away on Saturday

We hope to keep up the winning run at Greenleas this Saturday, following the fantastic performance at Victoria Park last weekend.

The game will take place at St Georges School kick off 9:30. Please meet there by 9:15 at the latest. Please can everyone let us know of availability by signing in on the right or texting 07901552261- so far confirmed are Lucie, Ellie (yeah she's ready to go again!), Rebecca, Lily and Kiera. Caitlin is away, Elia is doubtful as its her birthday. All the rest please let us know. If anybody needs a lift let Mike know.

We were only up at St Georges a few weeks ago, so the route should be familar. In case you've forgotten here is the way:

Take M53 to Junction 1. Head off left down slip road and at roundabout take first exit to Wallasey following signs A554 to New Brighton and Wallasey. Keep on this dual carriageway and ignore turn offs for Leasowe and for Wallasey. Keep on this road as it goes into a single carriageway and into the housing area of New Brighton. You will go past a big church on the right and then soon after turn right into Harrison Drive. Follow this for 200 yards and then turn left into Grove Road (there are some car showrooms at this junction). Keep on this road past the Nelson Pub on the right and just past a park on the right turn right into Claremount Road. St Georges School is 200 yards on the left. Park on this road or in Lyndhurst Avenue just before the school. If you go past the church on the right you've gone too far. The field is at the back of the school.

Net busting

Wirral Hawks Girls 1 - AFC Waverton 5

When the fixtures came out, this game looked in doubt given that we could struggle to get 7 girls out on a bank holiday weekend. At 10:45 however we were so pleased that we had managed to play it, the performance was absolutely brilliant and the scoreline easily reflective of the dominance of the yellow shirts.

With football news dominated this week by El Classico, as well of course of the pizza night, we had some Spanish like sunshine and a Spanish star player in player of the match Elia.

The first 7 players arriving at Victoria Park were given the starts, with Rebecca and Kate starting on the bench. In goal was the League's number 1 Lucie, Ellie and Emma at the back, Lily in centre mid with Lauren and Elia alongside and surprise arrival Caitlin up front. Wirral Hawks won the toss and decided to play up the slope. This meant Waverton would have to capitalise on the advantage in the first 30 minutes and would have a tiring task in the second.

The ground was hard and dusty and it was going to be very difficult out there. Lots of breaks and water needed. Lucie was worried about the dust affecting her eyes and wanted to wear sunglasses.

Right from the start Waverton looked sharp. Elia ran down the left and set up a chance for Caitlin. At the back Ellie was buzzin' and was brilliant bringing the ball out. Lauren wide right was playing her best football ever and one pass forward was as inch perfect as it could be. It was brilliant to see how she has improved. Emma was calm and solid at the back and Lily was keeping things together in the centre. Bits and pieces, the centre midfield players simple task.

It was Caitlin though who gave the away side the lead and could have had many more than the 4 she did score before half time. The goals were wide and ripe for a high scoring game. At 1-0 to Waverton though, the Hawks got a goal back in bizarre circumstances. A shot at goal was handled by a yellow shirt and when it spun backwards, Lucie cleared it off the line. However, instead of giving a penalty , the ref gave a goal, explaining that it deserved a goal. Lucie was furious, she had set out this morning with a determination to keep a clean sheet and the ball had not crossed the line. She was adamant later that she would have saved the penalty.

1-1 it was but not for long as Caitlin went up the other end and restored the lead with another net buster.

Lucie made an absolute brilliant save after first misjudging the bounce of a long ball on the hard surface but got back fantastically to knock the ball out for a corner.

The football being played was first class and some of the spectators not connected to the club watching commented on how good it was. Two lads said they were impressed.

Not long before half time, Ellie challenged for a ball on the far side of the field but went over on her ankle in pain. The game was stopped and Ellie was in distress. Cold water and a compress was applied and then ice and then frozen peas from the corner shop courtesy of Mark Brooks. The hard pitch was the culprit, it is so easy to do at this time of the season. Ellie's game was over and although it hadn't swelled up too much at the time, Ellie would later have to go to A&E for a check up.

Lily dropped to the back to play alongside Emma and was superb.

At half time the team talk was just about keeping it simple and doing what the team had been doing in the first half. "Lets do it for Ellie" was the plan.

It was clear that despite having the downhill advantage, and Waverton had lost a star player who had been driving the team along, the heads of the Hawks girls were down and Waverton were managing to keep their lead.

Kate, who was unwell, was thown up front for 10 minutes whilst Caitlin was rested. Kate later almost scored a goal but hit the post following great work from Caitlin. Rebecca too nearly scored when a great cross came over but she just couldn't make it. Lucie kept out the home team with another brave dive on the hard and dusty surface right at the feet of the attackers. She's brilliant.

Caitlin made sure the game was done and dusted with a fifth goal near to the end. That puts her in an uncatchable position in the goalscoring table, impressive for someone who can only play half of the games.

The game ended to cheers from the away side. It had not only been a decisive result against a team that thrashed us 8-2 at Waverton in October, but a brilliant footballing performance. Some of the passing was excellent. Even more the conditions had been tricky with a hard and dusty surface and the heat making running around hard. Losing Ellie too unsettled the side, but they adjusted so well.

Once again Elia was given player of the match, another well deserved accolade for the tricky one. Sophie Goldtress was the Hawks player of the match.

Well done everyone and lets hope Ellie gets better soon.

Funniest bits of the day:

• Geoff the referee trying to explain to our girls before the game that the players must not say 'leave it' or 'mine' when going for the ball, but put a name on it. He was bombarded with a series of questions that made him wish he hadn't started. "No, you can't say Justin Biebers"
• Lucie's face when the non goal was given. You don't mess with an angry Lucie.
• An unamed parent who asked if the goal still counted if the ball went through the back of the net.
• Everyone willing Rebecca to dive to head the ball into the net in the second half.

Wirral Hawks Girls 1 - AFC Waverton 5

Great performance from the team today at a sunny Victoria Park. 5 goals from Caitlin. Elia player of the match. Well done everyone. Report to follow.

End of season in sight

Great evening on Wednesday at the Ring of Bells. It seemed everyone had a good time and nice to see some serious carbohydrate intake going on. 6 pizzas between 7 footballers is tough going.

This Saturday we are away at Wirral Hawks Girls at Sloping Pitch Park (aka Victoria Park) in Birkenhead. Directions below.

The confirmed team is :Lucie, Ellie, Emma, Kate, Lily, Elia, Rebecca and Caitlin.

Please meet there by 9:15. If anyone needs a lift please let Mike know.

The League has announced the final fixtures for the season. We have our long awaited game with Ridgewood at Waverton on 14 May but next Saturday we head up to St Georges School again to play Greenleas, who we had a great draw with last month at Waverton. The League has given us two evening fixtures on Tuesday 17 and Thursday 19 May in Wallasey and Upton respectively. Both are scheduled for 6pm ko but Upton have kindly offered to put it back to a later time to help us get there, especially coaches and parents who have work commitments. We need to know whether you are available for both or either of those evenings please.

Directions to Victoria Park:

Take the M53 to the Clatterbridge junction (J4). Go up to the roundabout over the motorway and take first left. This is Mount Road the B5151. Follow this through Storeton past the Travellers Rest pub.

Keep on this road for a while until you get to a funny little double mini roundabout. Take the right hand turn at the second mini roundabout onto Thornton Road. At the bottom turn left onto Borough Road and then first right onto the Wiend. Follow this through a junction and it becomes Mount Road again. Keep on this road and when you get to the end, you'll come onto a little funny roundabout. The park is on your right, but take third exit and park on the main road just after the roundabout thing or pull into Victoria Park Road on the right and park. The entrance is on the main road. If you get to the Black Horse pub on the right you've gone too far. If lost call Mike on 07901552261.

Remember updates on Twitter - @afcwaverton

Easter arrangments

The holidays are here for some and nearly here for others. Here's the arrangements for the team over the next few weeks:

Sat 16 April - No game

Mon 18 April - no training. Mike at Wallasey League meeting

Sat 23 April (Easter Saturday) - game cancelled

Wed 27 April - 2 for 1 Pizza evening - Ring of Bells with u12s

Fri 29 April - somebody is getting married

Sat 30 April - Game v Wirral Hawks Girls away - confirmed team- Lucie, Elia, Emma, Ellie, Lily, Kate, Rebecca.

Wed 4 May - Parents evening - Ring of Bells 8-10

Sat 7 May - League game to be arranged

Mon 9 May - Training resumes - Waverton

Sat 14 May - League game to be arranged

Mon 16 May - Training

Sat 21 May - Sandbach six a side Tournament (if accepted) - squad - Lucie, Emma, Ellie, Ellie, Lily, Kate, Rebecca, Kiera, Caitlin

Training will resume in May. Given the experience of the last two sessions, players need to arrive on time, be focussed on learning, be willing to run around a bit and bring boots and appropriate clothing (wear socks and shin pads, bring warm clothing if chilly, no ipods, no mobile phones on the pitch, no plimsolls).

The u12s have invited us to a pizza evening at the Ring of Bells 6pm on Weds 27 April, as we did at Christmas. Who's interested?

Parents evening will be on Weds 4 May. Mike will be at the Ring of Bells in Christleton between 8 and 10 and parents are invited to drop in any time. We'd like to know for example- how do you feel the season has gone? what could we have done better?, what does you daughter say she likes/dislikes? what do you want for the 2011/12 season? and no doubt you have loads of questions for us.

Sunshine and Stars

Greenleas Celtic 11- AFC Waverton 2

Well done girls for a great performance against the Greenleas A side at a hot and sunny St Georges School today. The spirit and determination in the first 10 mins and all of the second half was first class. All the girls were excellent and we saw the first goal for Kate, nicking in from a great Elia cross-shot and a brilliant strike from Kiera.

With Kate a late addition, and starting as sub, the team was Lucie in goal, Emma and Ellie at the back, Kiera, Lily and Rebecca as the midfield and Elia up front. Elia had forgotten her boots and borrowed Mike's. No stopping her now.

Straight from the start, Waverton were up for it and within a minute Lily attacked down the right and set up a chance for Kiera. This was a good sign and the dominance continued for the first 10 minutes. Our game is so much about confidence and as soon as Greenleas scored, heads went down. It goes quiet and we lose our composure making us more vulnerable to goals. Lily had another great run down the right and her hard shot was parried round the post for a corner. Emma and Ellie made some key tackles at the back and Emma had a great run forward which showed her determination. Lots of water was taken. It was needed given the Spring heat.

8-0 at half time. The ref said he'd cut short the game, but we told him not to. We'd not come 25 miles to play less than our full hour. No way. We suggested that if it got into double figures, we'd call it game to Greenleas and play a friendly by mixing up the teams. The ref was for it, our girls were mostly for it, but Greenleas were not. A 20-0 win to the home side would have really helped them wouldn't it?

Anyway our 8 little spirits decided to get on with the job and they played really well. Elia won the ball on the right really well and hit a hard cross shot which Kate rushing in just touched into the net. Kate's first goal for the club, a delighted goalscorer and our heads were lifted. Soon after Kiera hit a fantastic shot from way out, a shot which hit the inside of the cross bar and bounced down and across the line. Great goal from the captain.

Ellie was thrown forward with the intention of getting a goal and immediately she came close twice, both shots millimetres away from going in.

Despite the score this was a good performance against one of the best teams in the League. The second half score was 3-2. There were some great individual performances including another superb showing from Lucie. Her second half save from a great Celtic shot, by knocking it over the bar was as good as they come in any standard of football. Best 'keeper in the League? Absolutely no question.

Player of the match - Kiera

Training at Waverton this Monday. 7-8 on the field. All available players to attend.

Game v Greenleas Celtic away on Saturday

The League has given us a cup game this Saturday, away at Greenleas Celtic ko 11.00 in Wallasey.

The game will take place at St Georges School on Claremount Road in Wallasey. Please meet at 10:40 for a warm up. Please allow enough time to get there as on the last two visits we have had to start whilst players were still on their way. Directions on here later, but the school is easy to find from Junction 1 of the M53. It will take 5 mins from the junction to the school but don't follow Satnavs, directions below.

The confirmed team is: Lucie, Ellie, Emma, Elia, Lily, Kiera, Rebecca and Kate.

Anybody needing a lift please let Mike know on 07901552261.

We have no game on 16 April as we should have been playing the now disbanded Vicars Cross team at the Rugby Club (but we will be awarded 3 points). We have a match against Wallasey Wanderers on Easter Saturday but have cancelled it because of not being able to field a team given holidays (We will lose the points). We have a game on Sat 30 April against Wirral Hawks but holidays are affecting that game too and we are awaiting confirmation of availability from some players. At the moment only Lucie, Ellie, Lily, Emma. Kate, Rebecca can play. Definitely absent are Kiera and Caitlin. I'd be grateful if the others could confirm either way asap so the League and the other team can plan.

Directions to St Georges School

Take M53 to Junction 1. Head off left down slip road and at roundabout take first exit to Wallasey following signs A554 to New Brighton and Wallasey. Keep on this dual carriageway and ignore turn offs for Leasowe and for Wallasey. Keep on this road as it goes into a single carriageway and into the housing area of New Brighton. You will go past a big church on the right and then soon after turn right into Harrison Drive. Follow this for 200 yards and then turn left into Grove Road (there are some car showrooms at this junction). Keep on this road past the Nelson Pub on the right and just past a park on the right turn right into Claremount Road. St Georges School is 200 yards on the left. Park on this road or in Lyndhurst Avenue just before the school. If you go past the church on the right you've gone too far. The field is at the back of the school. Be there at 10;40.

Great expectations

AFC Waverton 0 - Upton Rangers 11

Perhaps we all expected too much, but having played so well last week with only 6 players against Irby's 7 plus a sub, we should have really put up a good fight against Upton since we had the pick of 10 players. Just didn't work out and as soon as we went a goal down, the heads dropped and the game had gone. It hadn't really and we could have and should have then grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck and stormed back into it. But we didn't and we were often second best to 50/50 balls and at times looked unfit and tired. We are a good team, have players who can match most in this league for skill, and play good passing football and should not be getting smashed 20-0 over two games in a month against Upton. Confidence goes away too easily as well as the fight and desire needed to succeed at this level. Maybe we should have started with only 6! We'll all have to work hard in training and come back next Saturday fully fit and with a determination to give it all to win for the team.

Player of the match - Elia.

We'll have a fitness focussed training session in the gym this Monday. 7-8 usual place. See you there.

We still don't know our fixtures for Saturday despite being promised them last Thursday. We're in the hands of the League but we then have run around like headless chickens arranging to get 7 players together, find a referee who is free, make sure that the pitch is booked, and talk to the other club about kick off arrangements, directions etc.

Game v Upton Rangers this Saturday

We have tonight been told that we will play a home game against Upton Rangers this Saturday. Kick off is 10:45. Please meet there at 10:25 for a good warm up.

Help is required from parents for setting up. Mark Brooks has kindly offered to help.

The team confirmed so far is: Lucie, Lily, Emma, Elia, Ellie, Caitlin, Kiera. If any others are available, please sign in on the right.

The Sandbach tournament team (21 May) is : Lucie, Lily, Elia, Emma, Ellie, Kate, Kiera, Rebecca.

What have you done today to make you feel proud?

AFC Waverton (6 players) 0 - Irby (7 players) 8

We've been here before but it still doesn't get any easier to take. With the seventh Waverton player pulling out last night for pressing and unavoidable reasons, Irby were on Friday night asked if they would consider playing 6v6. No came the answer. Would you like to lend us one of your 8 and we can play 7v7? No came the answer.

Another well known league side were similarly obsessed with on field domination in days gone by ('We've asked the girls and they would like to play with 7') and in the u12s days we came across this mission drive from an unnamed manager who had the cheek to say how at the end of an unequal 6v7 game that a spectator wouldn't have noticed we had one player less. Well mate thats not how it felt to our six who'd been flogging their legs and lungs out for an hour and consistently picking the ball out of the net. Strange though that other clubs, including our own u12s this very morning, take a contrary view in the interests of fair play. This game is about playing fairly and in the spirit of sportsmanship, not about demoralising 13 year old girls because of the win at all costs mentality of middle aged men.

Anyway. Rant over. The six yellow shirts lined up with Lucie in the nets, a back one of Emma, Kiera in the middle of the middle, Lily and Lauren in the wider middle and Elia up front. The team spirit at kick off was fantastic and the first 10 minutes arguably saw the 6 on top of the 7. Elia was unlucky not to give the home side the lead but generally Waverton's play and passing was top notch. Against the run of play though Irby scored with a low shot that beat Lucie. Soon after an incident happened that was pivotal. In diving to save from an on rushing attacker, Lucie clashed heads with her opponent and came off worse. She had a bad bump on her head and was shaken. Yet she did not want to come off. This is one tough girl. Shaken up, she did her best but some more goals went in.

At half time Lucie was not able to carry on. She felt shaken and sick and would later spend 4 hours in A&E. Kiera went in goal but in the corner of the field a solution to the impending 5v7 disparity appeared. Carlotta, Issy and Jodie were hanging around kicking a ball after their u12 game and once invited to make up the numbers they jumped at the chance. Except we had to choose two to start, so Jodie and Issy joined the 5 u14s for the restart. Touch of irony in the probability that they still had some energy left because our u12s had gone down to 6 as the opposition had only brought 6. See fair play will always win in the end.

We played so well throughout the match and were so unlucky not to score. Elia went close on numerous occasions and Lily was awesome in her trickery. Lauren took to the task really well and had a fine game. Emma was solid at the back and Kiera brilliant outfield and in goal. 'This is scary' she said of the 'keeping role. Lucie makes it look easy.

Elia fully deserved her player of the match award. She was excellent.

Lucie went to hospital as a precaution but apart from a cut, bump and a sore head, she was fine. A brave player she is. Well done to her and the other 5. Oh and the little helpers too, well done and thanks, Carlotta, Issy and Jodie. Huge thanks to Robin Parkinson for putting up the goals on his own at 9:30.

The u16s took to the stage as we left except the angry away team manager was on the verge of heading straight back up the M53 without a ball being kicked because he was arguing that the Waverton pitch wasn't big enough for 7 a side football. You couldn't make it up could you?

Training on Monday. 7-8 at the gym. Next week's fixtures out sometime soon. We hope. What a league this is eh?