BATTLING BEGINNING FOR BLACKHEATH BELLES

On a beautifully crisp autumn morning, the BOEHC U14 girls arrived at Burnt Ash for their first ever fixture. We knew names, we'd done lots of training and now was the time to put it into practice (Coach had even washed the bibs!).

It was Burnt Ash that started the stronger though....maybe nerves were playing a part with the Blackheath girls....and in the first quarter we went a goal down after a bit of confusion at the back. So we re-grouped and took the game to them. Astou was her formidable self through the midfield, and the defence grew in strength...still only 1-0 down at half time and all to play for.

Second half and the BOEHC girls were growing in confidence. Scarlett had a great quarter at RM, tackling everyone and carrying the ball beautifully. All the coach's words of wisdom were being played out on the pitch and a lovely move down the right culminated in a shot from Astou. The shot was saved but Abi was in the right place to slot home for the equaliser. 1-1.

It was all to play for in the fourth quarter. Burnt Ash threw everything at us! But the defence were resolute and the midfield and forwards started linking well to create more chances. But the star of the show was goalie Ana with two totally fabulous saves (that got applause from all the supporters, not just the BOE fans) to prevent Burnt Ash getting the win.

An excellent start to the U14s competitive season. Coach is very proud of every one of you!

Squad : Ana Lyons, Robin Giwa, Caitlin Kinch, Maddy Farrell, Frances Stratton-Killick, Iona Caldwell, Alice Outen, Maya Vij, Lily Vallance-Bull, Ella Griffths, Astou Glaisyer-Sidibe, Scarlett Brown, Abi Ings & Fran Corp

Coach's player of the match: shared between Ana and Scarlett

Match Report: Gemma Nurse