Today was always going to be tough, with four influential players missing through long term injury, other commitments, or influenza. I asked the girls to put in a gritty and determined performance today and they didn't let me down.

Right from the first whistle we had a really good shape and were quickly utilising Zofia's pace upfront. Stretching the opposition constantly helped us control the first half, with only some wayward finishing the difference between a two or three goal lead at halftime. Winslow broke the deadlock from a corner about halfway through it, with an unfortunate 'pinball' own goal. The girls certainly felt the injustice of the moment and were level within 60 seconds, with Zofia springing the offside trap for what felt like the 20th time and composed herself to tuck it past the out-rushing keeper. Half time came too soon for us and we were aggrieved at missing a lot of chances.

The second was a much more even affair and Lydia made some key saves to keep us level. We are a great counter attacking team, but we conceded a goal in the second half which had our trademark all over it. The one and only time that Winslow got through our back line properly, their striker slotted it home convincingly. Our Captain for today, Victoria, was an excellent sweeper for the other two and cleared up most things. Leah was excellent at spotting the danger early and making the Tackle that enabled her team mates to tidy up behind. Amelia was amazing and covered every blade of grass, setting up attacks and making goal saving challenges at the other end. Saoirse was her usual intelligent self, not panicking and using the ball properly, as well as never giving up when the ball is past her. Amy Marina stepped up a level today, working hard to get up and down the pitch and helping keep our shape. Honor seems to be growing in skill and confidence with every game, she can break up play in the defensive midfield role and has good vision when playing the ball forward. Adele (despite not being able to train for two weeks) played a world class through ball to Zofia, who did really well and was thwarted by great goal keeping. Aimee made lots of intelligent runs into the area, but either didn't get the pass or great defending denied her and held the ball up well when wide.

We only suffered from not having enough on the bench to re-energise the team and Winslow had plenty. I have nothing but praise for them all today, such was the desire and passion for the game.

Zofia again continued her run of winning player of the match from the opposition, Victoria received the Manager's choice for playing a captains role in a new position and getting up and on with the game, from a really bad knock.