Match Report: Priory Celtic v Newark Town Girls LFF (U10)

Squad:

Etta Lewis

Faith Bell

Millie Flanagan

Sophia West

Eimear Cafferkey

Sophie Wakefield

Maddy Templeton

Captain:

Millie Flanagan

After a one-hour journey to the away game, the girls arrived full of energy and determination, eager to show what they could do on the pitch.

An early challenge came with Myla side-lined due to injury, meaning the team would rotate players in goal. While this isn’t their preferred position, the girls approached it with positivity and a team-first mentality, stepping in without hesitation.

The match kicked off with a bright start. Faith put the team ahead within six minutes, showing sharp instincts and composure in front of goal. The momentum continued to build, and just two minutes later, Sophie doubled the lead with a precise finish, brilliantly set up by Millie’s incisive assist.

Priory Celtic fought hard to stay in the game, but Eimear and Sophia anchored the defence with determination, repeatedly pushing the ball forward to Millie. Her pressure paid off when a shot forced an own goal, giving the team a comfortable lead.

Despite the strong lead, Priory Celtic never gave up. In midfield, Maddy, Sophie, and Millie combined brilliantly to break through the opposition, allowing Sophie to score her second goal of the match and awarding Millie another assist for her creative play.

The first half concluded with the girls coming off the pitch smiling and proud of their efforts. Rhys and Vicki offered a few tactical words, emphasizing focus and communication, which left the girls motivated and ready for the second half.

The second half started almost immediately with a goal. Within two minutes, Etta finished a well-worked team move, expertly assisted by Maddy. Maddy continued to dominate in midfield, battling hard to drive forward, create attacking opportunities, and support her teammates.

Sophie completed her hat trick in the 33rd minute, benefiting from a clever assist from Etta, highlighting the team’s excellent link-up play. Eimear tried a stint upfront, but with power play rules in effect, she found it challenging to penetrate the opposition’s well-organized defence.

The team won numerous corners, prompting a tactical adjustment to utilize short corners directed to Maddy. She delivered several dangerous crosses into the box, demonstrating precision and vision, though the final touch from the strikers eluded them.

Throughout the match, the girls maintained energy, spirit, and teamwork, supporting each other on and off the ball. Their persistence, positivity, and tactical awareness were evident from start to finish.

The full-time whistle blew, marking the end of a spirited and hard-fought performance, showcasing both individual brilliance and cohesive team play.

Player of the Match:

Sophie Wakefield

A Few Words from the Manager:

"Well done girls - another well fought game with a fully deserved win. Even with a comfortable lead, you didn't fail to keep battling. With no subs to rely on, you all played a brilliant 50 minutes of football. You were happy in all positions and gave it your all throughout. As always, you make us so proud."