Irby Colts 2 - AFC Waverton 3
The second game after the extended Christmas break saw the Waverton team produce an excellent display despite being a player down for all the match. Two goals from Lily who was a constant threat and one from Keira proved to be enough of a cushion to deal with the late challenge from the Colts. This was a good game played in a good fashion.
Meg, Caitlin and Hollie were unavailable. The pitch was wide with long grass which would have sapped the strength from seven pairs of legs, let alone six competing against seven. Yet the visitors were generally on top for all the game displaying some excellent teamwork and organisation to counter the extra player.
The team lined up in 2-2-1 formation with Ellie and Emma at the back, Lily and Keira in midfield and 'la dificul nuna' Elia up front. Waverton had the early chances and then took the lead when a Keira corner from the left was knocked home at close range by Lily.
Chances followed to double the lead including shots from Keira and Elia which went wide. Irby though were always a threat if they could use their number advantage on the break and this is what happended as they broke down the right and with the Waverton defence chasing the home player had a great shot which eluded Lucie's grasp and went into the back of the net.
Just before half time Keira had a great run and shot but it hit the post. Lily Elia and Keira were excellent in their passing and Ellie and Emma took turns to come up and support the attack. This was good stuff.
At half time there were concerns about tiredness, but the girls were reminded to make the ball work, make the most of the breaks and that Irby didn't have any subs so they too would tire. The second goal came again from a Keira corner which Lily hit home. Keira added to the lead with a great shot but Irby came back into it and the striker hit a fantastic shot which Lucie was powerless to stop although she did her best, with the ball flying off her hands and face into the net.
At the other end Waverton had more chances but the final touch was just no right. In the goal, Kristin Michael was very brave diving at the feet of our attackers and deserved her MOM award.
All in all a great display which makes up for last week's disappointment at Manor.
MOM as voted by Irby Colts - Keira Berry.
