There were mixed fortunes for our Wildcats girls yesterday (October 12th) with three sides in action.
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The Wildcats U13s were away to Wembdon at Camp Bridgwater.
The Wildcats started the game in an assured manner, passing the ball fluently and accurately with high energy, causing numerous problems for the opposition.
Despite the initial dominance and pressing high up the pitch, they were unable to convert any opportunities into goals.
Wembdon started to find gaps and create chances of their own. Keeper Ivy E was in fine form, but the deadlock was broken by the hosts on 23 minutes with a fortunate volley from a goal kick.
Faith D and Alisha J had some great linking counterplay, but it was Wembdon again who had some luck with deflected efforts and passes to add further goals. A converted penalty on the stroke of half-time made it 5-0 at the interval.
Captain Georgie L rallied the team in the second half with the Wildcats playing with the same intensity and accuracy, but they could not find the finishing touch.
Wembdon again worked hard and scored three further goals.
The Wildcats kept fighting and battling but the game was called to an abrupt end with a serious knee injury to Sally T.
Both sets of coaches must be commended for their actions to ensure the wellbeing of the players in an unfortunate situation. Everyone wishes Sally a speedy recovery – her bravery was inspiring.
The Wildcats are continuing to improve and show commitment to learning and the player-of-the-day went to Georgie L.
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Midsomer Norton made the long trip to Court Fields School to pay the Wildcats U14s and, with both teams on equal points, it promised to be and indeed turned into an exciting game of football.
U14s player-of-the-match – Darcey B.
The Wildcats passing game in the first half was impressive with their link up play using the space available and stretching the opposition.
It was no surprise that Emilia S scored a brace with superb team play, although Norton hit back with a breakaway before half-time to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
The second half became more stretched which suited the Wildcats. Lola S, Mckayla H and Kacie W used the wings with continued success, allowing plenty of space for Lacey BG, Faith NH, Flo N, Lleya C and Willow P in the middle to have many scoring opportunities.
Faith NH added two goals, and Emilia completed her third hat-trick in as many games.
Norton hit back with a well-worked goal and a penalty, but Emilia S hit her fourth to close out a 6-3 victory.
Darcey B had her finest game in a Wildcat shirt in defence, earning the player-of-the-match award.
The communication and team spirit in the back lines with keeper Sophie W, captain Jess B, Imogen M, Frankie P and Isla C working as one, to thwart the pace and skill of the opposition. can only be applauded.
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Having beaten Wembdon in a hard-fought game during pre-season, the Wildcats U16s knew it would be a tough game away from home.
U16s player-of-the-match – Lola H.
After an even start, Wembdon went ahead from a corner. Not to be deterred, the Wildcats levelled with great play from Orlaith C down the right side, finding Lola H in the box.
Wembdon then scored twice more before Wildcats captain Milly H scored a stunner from the edge of the box to reduce the deficit. Lola H was marginally offside when she found the net for a second time.
The Wildcats needed to adjust at half-time as they lost Amy M to injury shortly before the interval. She was replaced by Darcy H, who was making her Wildcats debut.
Many chances were created through Orlaith C and Erin C and, with the help of Wildcats’ defensive line and keeper Jasmine Simmons making multiple game changing saves, Wembdon’s strong attack was held at bay.
The continued pressure told in the 65th minute with a well worked goal by Wembdon making it 4-2.
The ever-improving Wildcats showed positive attitudes and desire, putting pressure on Wembdon by putting balls into the box.
It was no surprise that, on the 75th minute, Lola H scored her fourth in two games after some enjoyable football between the squad.
Despite their best efforts to gain an equaliser, it ended in a narrow 4-3 defeat.
The outstanding performances throughout the squad made it a difficult choice for the player-of-the-day.
It was eventually given to Lola H for her continuous determination, improvement and teamwork.
U10s player-of-the-match at last week’s festival – Jessica H.
