Match Report by Gill

Ashford 3s Vs Cheam AWAY 9/09/2023 FRIENDLY
The 3 rd XI started their season with a marvellous win. 3-2 against a friendly and welcoming Cheam
opposition.
The players had to battle through heavier than anticipated traffic to arrive at a scorching 30+
degrees Cheam home pitch.
Kirsty, returning to the fold after a few health issues, made a bright start with decisive hits down the
length of the pitch creating exciting opportunities. With everything to play for disaster, stick and ball
struck…her toe…result…broken foot. We all feel for you Kirsty and wish you a speedy recovery.
Dhanvi had a solid game and controlled the back with decisive saves repelling numerous strikes on
goal. Daya, equally solid, contributed well to the backs. After a brief spell for Gill, replacing Kirsty as
sweeper, Vanessa took over and, alongside Talia and Chris, formed a solid and resolute defence.
Promising start from all defenders. Chris moved through most positions at some point in the game
proving her versatility and enabling numerous players to take a short break as sub in the stifling
heat. What a hero!
Meanwhile, the midfield brought youth, speed and determination to the team. Sophie was a
powerhouse in the centre. A huge asset, welcome back Sophie! Niamh made a sparkling debut with
good reading of the game, great interceptions and positioning and some lovely carries. Emma was
tireless and athletic as ever and it was great to hear her calling on the pitch and communicating with
other players showing her maturity and reading of the play.
With the midfield acting as link players the forwards were ploughing their trade at the front.
Newcomer Lily proved a strong player with good presence on the pitch. Not one to give up when
tackled she displayed good determination in winning back the ball on several occasions, well done.
Amy, despite suffering in the heat played well and had several good opportunities to make her mark
resulting in her calmly scoring the first goal with a lovely worked short corner. Emma snook in for the
second goal. Nicky, another player who worked her socks of in several positions, fired in the third
goal – again from a short. Gill used her experience to make some promising runs at the front,
acquiring good positions and sometimes moving opposition players to free up space for others to
capitalise on.
What a fantastic way to start the season. 3-2 win. MOM: Talia for consistent play throughout.
Thanks to Lesley who umpired her second game on the trot in high temperatures. New coach Matty
was also on hand to witness the strong performance. His calm guidance and suggestions in the
breaks helped guide the team and keep us going in challenging weather conditions. It was most
pleasing to see what we had practiced in training come to life on the pitch with calm passing, pre-
scanning, recycling and good transfers. The training worked! Well done all.