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University of York Women's 2nds 1 - 13 York City Reserves
This Sunday saw the Women’s Football, 2nd team’s very first game – a friendly against York City Reserves. Putting together a team consisting mainly of freshers, including some ladies who had never played a football match before, York weren’t expecting any miracles, and took their 13 – 1 drubbing in good humour.
The game kicked off a little later than expected. But once the game did get underway the first few minutes looked very good for York, with equal possession and some very nice passes from our team. York City scored the first goal after a powerful corner, but the students were not put off. Continuing to fight for the ball right across the park, they pulled off some very nice moves – especially given their low level of match experience.
This fighting attitude paid off: only minutes after the opening goal, York managed to grab the equalizer. After a strong corner from Charlotte Boots, player of the match Katy Ballantyne directed the ball cleanly past the opposing keeper and into the back of the net.
Unfortunately for the student side, this was to be their first and last goal of the match. City kept up the pressure and the uni players got sucked into playing to the opposition’s game rather than their own. However, York bravely maintained a high morale throughout. Even after several more goals had been conceded, they kept battling, heads held high and refused to give up.
Towards the end of the second half though, as York’s fitness began to give out, an inevitable feeling of downheartedness set in. With the final score of 13 – 1, this was hardly surprising. However, although at first glance the scoreline may look shocking, it’s worth remembering that this was York’s first game as a new team, and for many their first football game ever.
I’m really proud of everyone who played. It was a tough match but everyone worked hard and never gave up.
Captain Sophie Wilson summed up the day, saying: “It was a great first match. I’m really proud of everyone who played. It was a tough match but everyone worked hard and never gave up. We look forward to more friendlies very soon, and until then, hope for equal amounts of enthusiasm and dedication at training!”
Teamsheet: Annalie Schutz, Sophie Wilson (c), Katherine Hills, Katy Ballantyne, Victoria Full, Hannah Upton, Beth Khan, Susana Paardekooper, Ruth Welford, Katherine Grauphen, Anne Lise Flaeten, Nicole Woodward, Charlotte Boots.
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