GOAL / NO GOAL

*Disclaimer, this report will not be as witty or clever as the previous couple of AMAZING match reports as the reporter has a very short memory span, a poor grasp of grammar and very specific sense of humour, smiley face with sunglasses*

Watsonians gather at Mary Erskines, our favourite pitch after the stormer of a game we last had there. As the team arrives in dribs and drabs, thanks to a rugby game around the corner, there is a mixture of excitement and bleary eyes (guilty!). The team make their way to the pitch to find the gate locked (tactics) and the Civil Service already warming up. All agreed that was just wasting precious energy and our rest in the changing room was a much better approach. After a MAJOR detour, warm up begins. With some quick dynamic stretches and a zig zag, accompanied by Jodie’s GOAL / NO GOAL lollipop stick sign, we are ready to rumble!

The whistle blows signalling the beginning of the first half. Watsonians have pass back and set about getting the ball into the C.S. half. With a solid starting line-up, it doesn’t take long. The midfield get to work and send the ball straight up to our forwards, Olivia “Juice” Jones and Jodie. But the C.S. also have some legs on them, putting pressure onto our right wing and in particular Rozy who holds off the repeated runs coming directly at her. Pace slows, there is a fire that needs igniting (queue Take That). Star goalie Saskia keeps play at the back tight while saving every shot made at her, our hero! Our call for flames is answered as Jenny, with a perfectly level hit from the top of the D, scores our first goal! Celebration ensues. The first half continues with lovely runs up the pitch from the dynamic duo of Rowan and Neve straight into the oppositions D. But unfortunately, despite straight strikes and short corners, nothing is won for Watsonians. The same is happening at the other end of the pitch with Jen defending her immaculate eyebrows off (don’t worry her eyebrows were still PERFECTLY intact by the end of the game) and keeping any unwanted visitors outside our D. Great relief is felt all over when the whistle is blown, allowing everyone a short break.

Half time and Sir Alex once again makes an appearance at MES. Inspirational words are departed onto the team, hitting us with the hard truth that needs to be heard. Long story short, not good enough if we are to continue our winning streak! Good cop Captain Catie swoops in with her never failing rousing speech. Rejuvenated, we return to the pitch for the second half.

Watsonians start strong, pressing C.S. from the get-go. With Judith commanding the play from the back (we were all very happy she was able to stay for the second half) nothing gets though. It is apparent from the elevated level of play that the half time advice has not been ignored, as balls are sent wide and high at a rapid pace. The gaps are found, and runs are made up the wings by Julia and Michelle. A couple of one handed runs, that definitely should have been to handed runs, are made my Mel. Another break is made by Jodie, who sends the ball into a clear D ready to be picked up by Neve, with a reverse hit that stunned everyone on the pitch she hits the top back corner of the net! With both teams envious of a such a stunning shot most only dream of, play is set back up. A new power is felt by Watsonians all over as our second goal has been scored.

Unfortunately, the feeling must have been mutual. Despite Captain Catie’s never failing channelling skills, C.S. push back making it into our D. A short corner is awarded and with a short lapse in the high calibre of play C.S. shot goes in. However, that doesn’t get us down! A new tactic is put in place, and the triangles are busted out! With some stunning long balls from Catie up the wing, Rowan, Hope and Jenny make short work of getting the ball into their half. However, not happy with having her scoring average from the last couple of games lowered, Olivia “Juice” Jones initiates her signature move, smooth OJ. Finding the break, she dodges past 3 defenders, NO BITS IN SIGHT. And if that wasn’t enough, she also manages to move the goalie away from her post, and with an open goal the ball rolls into it with little to no effort. She’s done it again, and it is now 3-1 to Watsonians! With the last push from the entire team, some players are flying (again literally, as Michelle is tripped up by one of the opposition and practically does a somersault in the air)! However, time has run short for any further goals and with the sun shining the final whistle is blown.

Another marvelous game and a lovely day are celebrated back at the Myreside clubhouse with pints and packs of crisps. The recap of the game is ALMOST as fun as playing it. High fives all round.

Shall the Watsonian Ladies 4’s winning streak continue? Tune in next week to find out!

Thank you to Gael for umpiring and all our supporters for coming along.