Our Cheetahs under-12s girls have sprinted out of the blocks this season, having chalked up their second successive win.
The girls triumphed 3-2 against Ladybridge at a rain-drenched St Mary's Park on Sunday and played some delightful football.
Coach Alex said: "It was a gritty performance. It was 2-2 with 15 minutes to go and the girls had to dig really deep in tough conditions.
"Their communication, movement and looking to pass were key, as the opposition keeper made some impressive saves. Likewise our keeper kept us level, to allow our constant attacking pressure to pay off as we got a late penalty for handball to finish the game off."
It was a proper ladies day down at the park, as Diamonds under-11s followed Cheetahs onto the nines pitch, playing against Wigan Athletic. Diamonds have a reputation for playing clever, passing football and they didn't disappoint, scoring three good goals and managing to get some minutes into all the squad.
Over on the sevens pitch Phoenix girls under-10s also played some attractive football, creating a hatful of chances against visitors East Leigh. Lois and Summer scoring for the blues, with Orlaith named player of the game for her superb performance in multiple positions and excellent communication throughout. The girls dedicated the game to teammate Noe, who sadly had to miss out with an injury. Get well soon Noe...
Phoenix Player of the Game Orlaith Lafferty
Hurricanes Girls Under-eights are fast getting a name for themselves as 'entertainers' with another high-scoring showdown.
Coach Justin said: "It was only our second league game and it was great learning experience for us as a team - the opposition were exceptionally well drilled with their passing and movement, and it showed us exactly where we need to get to. And with 13 goals scored after two games we are nothing if not entertaining.
"Siana was back in goal and showed us how much we missed her with some brilliant saves, and received fulsome praise from the opposition coach. The cat is back.
"Betsy was once again a reassuring presence at the back with some vital interceptions and clearances. Marnie our midfield dynamo was a tigerish presence throughout, never stopped competing and scored both our goals in the second half.
"Violet never stopped running at the opposition, started the move that made our opening goal and was unlucky not to score herself. Lyla set up Marnie for our first goal and again never stopped competing, making herself a presence up front and at the back.
"Matilda was a ball of energy throughout, hassling the opposition and linking our defence and attack. Rene once again exhibited her range of passing, and is starting to gain more confidence with every game she plays. It was Olivia’s first game of the season, and she showed off her good technical ability with some good control and passing."
As for the boys... Devils had a successful day against Chadderton, with coach Andy saying: "The lads were great and are really building their confidence now."
Vikings gaffer Tom was similarly impressed with his charges in their match against Radcliffe Juniors, as he said: "We played some brilliant football and dominated. The boys kept to the plan, with the new lads settling in brilliantly."
Dragons also enjoyed a happy day's work, with coach Hilary reporting: "After a tough first game of the season, we bounced back against Stingerz. There was some brilliant teamwork and passing and our communication was massively improved. The lads were very happy and deservedly so."
