Uncomfortable 'away' win in top of the table derby game

Yet another Bury ladies' derby saw the 4s struggle to impose themselves on a determined 5s team displaying a swarming defence to pressure any mis-touches. There were a number of these from both sides as space was at a premium. The 5s more than held their own in the early exchanges, probably passing the ball better than the 4s. The 4s needed to pass earlier and to get wide where the space was as the middle of the pitch became increasingly clogged up. It was a relief when they did just that, releasing Bella Bridgeman to run in on the right and cross early. Kathryn Mitchell reacted fastest of the three 4s forwards to shovel home. The 5s were not discouraged, however, and it took a fine diving deflection save from Charlotte Whiting to preserve the lead. The 4s created further chances but accuracy wasn’t good when shooting. A second goal was needed to calm the coach's nerves. Sharon Holton obliged with a rasping corner strike that no keeper would save.

Half-time allowed a regroup. It was stressed that the 4s needed to match their opponents' work rate and pass sooner to create the space to run with the ball. We also needed to get our team closer together if we wanted to press effectively. In other words reflect back on the 5s what they were doing very effectively to us. The 4s improved and life in the defence became less hectic as the 5s were pushed deeper. But we needed a third goal. Short corners always looked a danger and Sharon scored her second from a one-two with Jo Etherton. [Note from the coach - that is why we do a lot of give and go in training sessions.] A fourth goal was added within minutes from another corner, Jenny Clark reacting fastest to a loose ball to slide home on the reverse. With the game convincingly won the team finally relaxed and scored the team goal of the game. Sue Yeates picked out Jenny. With runners dragging defenders out of position Jenny slipped the ball to Kathryn whose finely judged flip pass saw Jo run onto it and round the keeper for our goal of the season so far. 10 seconds; three passes; runners off the ball; simple things done well; coach impressed; thank you!

In fairness 5-0 flattered us as the 5s played better than in the first meeting of the season and were far more of a threat. In the end corners and two good passing moves were the difference on the score sheet.

Next week the 4s welcome Felixstowe 2s. Based on the away fixture this could be a challenging game...