11/1/2009 Maidenhead U 18 Ladies 5 v Ashford U 18 Ladies 1
The second Sunday of the New Year brought the first U18 match away at Maidenhead. The cold, frosty weather meant there was a general concern for the pitch, but it was perfect playing condition. The mini-bus journey produced high spirits and the girls were raring to go. There was a slow start as the AHC side were still getting used the bouncy water-based pitch. The girls soon got into the swing of things and there was some lovely play between the defence to the midfield, and the midfield to the attack. Maidenhead managed to get numerous short corners, but Ashford’s best efforts including goalie BECKY HEWES going the whole way, meant they were unable to develop them into goals. Unfortunately not long after, Ashford dipped and the whites managed to get in three sneaky consecutive goals. Some heads did drop, but after a quick encouraging chat during the half-time, the reds were optimistic and were ready to fight.

There was some experimental modification of positions, which the team coped well with. The second half brought out Ashford’s more attacking side with the majority of players and play in the Maidenhead half. KELLY TAYLOR in particular had a lovely shot on goal, but her attempt to lift it resulted in the ball hitting the cross-bar. It wasn’t long until disaster stuck, in the form of a lifted ball into midfielder BRYONY SMITH. She went down like a bullet, but as there weren’t any subs, she battled bravely on. Unfortunately not long after, the quick-footed Maidenhead players managed to expose Ashford to a few breaks which then turned into another two goals. Heads did not go down and the Reds carried on fighting until they won a short corner. Injected by KIRSTY HULL to ANNA PROTHEROE who took a straight strike but the goalie stepped in to prevent it. Not dwelling on this, a sideline ball pushed by ELINE SIBIA to ABI HACK, back to SIBIA to EMILY REED to BRYONY SMITH to ABI COWELL to ANNA PROTHEROE who took on four Maidenhead players finally secured a goal for the Reds. The game continued with some smashing play from MEGAN CONNELL on the right and some lovely distributions from NIKKI CROXON. The girls were proud of how they played, and were happy that they managed to bring in some set play which they had practiced in training. Overall, the Ashford U18’s fans said it was a very good game to watch. Our thanks to Official Photographer Scott Quinn, Designated Driver Sue Taylor and Bags Transporter Alison Boxell. And of course Coach Laura Quinn.

Match report by Eline Sibia. 11 Jan. 09