A Valiant Effort.

Scotland v Ireland? Nope. England v France? Not a chance. The big game everyone was talking about this weekend was in no doubt. Clash of the Watsonians Ladies 3s v Watsonians Ladies 4s. Round 2. The crowds filed into Tipperlinn, it was almost at capacity as the first fixture of the afternoon got underway.

With home advantage this time, the L3s wasted no time troubling the 4s defence as they switched the ball left to right weaving in and out of our players. However, the 4s have been honing their skills too over the past few weeks and after a superb winning streak, they were not about to make it easy for the 3s. Ashley and Julia worked hard on the wings, supported by Jenny and Holly in the middle of the park to threaten the opposition.

It was end to end play with both teams hungry for the first goal. It was the 3s that were rewarded, going 1-0 up after a lucky break saw the ball pass by our usually solid back 4 onto the stick of lone 3s striker. It wasn't long though before 4s responded, winning a short corner at the other end which was coolly put to the back of the net by straight strike specialist Suze. With the score level, half time offered a welcome respite and a chance to discuss tactics with newly appointed manager Jodie Dunz who had so far covered more distance than any player pacing up and down the sidelines.

Second half and both teams were straight back on it. Tensions were running high but despite plenty of chances the 4s just couldn't get a shot away. And the 3s were relentless in their attack. Some excellent hassle from Ashley (that girl is #fitnessgoals) and drives forward from Jenny 'can't touch this' Hughes were keeping them at bay. Special mention as well to right back Anna who single-handedly responded to a 3s advance by casually-as-you-like nicking the ball and carrying it past 3 of their players like she was taking it out for a Sunday stroll.

We were into the final 10 minutes and a draw looking like a decent result against the higher team, 4s were instructed by the gaffer to 'park the bus'. But the defence were wearying and the 3s were not willing to risk their position in the league table. They kept up the pressure right to the whistle to gain two goals in quick succession in the final 6 minutes of the game. A tough pill to swallow for the 4s who had put up a strong fight. A disappointing result in the end, but a performance to be proud of!

Thanks to Iain and Tony for umpiring.
MoM: Ashley
DoD: Participant 5 a.k.a Ellie Hird