Ladies 3rd XI

Match Report

Still aching from the previous day's game, which had been played with just 12 players, Slazenger Ladies 3s made the trip to Weetwood to take on a spritely Leeds University 2s in a rearranged Sunday fixture. What could possibly go wrong?!

Well, quite a lot, as it turned out!

Just before pushback, our  goalkeeper Lauren Hattersley took an unexpected tumble, resulting in a split lip and an emergency trip to A&E for some glue rather than her usual spot between the posts. After several frantic and unsuccessful last-minute phone calls to find a replacement keeper, it was time for Plan B.

Step forward Player of the Match, defender Lucy England, who bravely volunteered to pull on the goalkeeper's kit just minutes before the whistle. Plenty of time to mentally prepare, but absolutely no time to warm up!

Meanwhile, striker Caro Schofield, who had earned herself the nickname 'The Joker' the previous evening, was already having a difficult Sunday. Feeling rather unwell during the warm-up, she decided that a quiet moment behind a tree was preferable to the usual pre-match routine. Not quite the team talk we had planned!

The match got underway and it quickly became apparent that Slazenger had their work cut out. Leeds University started strongly, scoring two relatively soft goals in the opening minutes and putting Slazenger firmly on the back foot. They were a well-drilled, skilful side who moved the ball confidently and attacked as a unit.

Emotions were running high, and Ellie Page showed her fiery side, becoming increasingly frustrated during play. Wisely deciding to take herself off for a breather before the umpire made that decision for her, she took a moment to regroup on the sidelines.

Leeds continued to put the pressure on and added two more impressive goals before half-time, leaving Slazenger with a 4-0 mountain to climb. The second half saw Slazengers dig deep, despite tired legs and a growing appreciation for the luxury of having a full squad! The defensive unit of Sarah Richey, Nicole Knox, Stacey Drake, Zoe Searson Phe Secker and Lisa Minchella worked tirelessly, closing down play, making crucial tackles and clearing danger from the D.

Once she'd found her feet (and hopefully warmed up a little!), stand-in keeper Lucy England put in an excellent performance. Making some great saves, commanding her D and looking remarkably comfortable for someone who hadn't expected to be playing in goal that afternoon. A huge thank you, Lucy!

Despite being under sustained pressure, Slazengers defended resolutely throughout the second half and managed to keep Leeds at bay. Unfortunately, a short corner right at the final whistle gave Leeds one last opportunity, which they converted to make the final score 5-0.

A tough result against a very strong university side, but plenty of determination and some excellent defensive work to take away.