Away day 'Blues' for Under 12's

The Under 12's winning start to the season came to a halt in an entertaining game against the Blues of Matlock. Although the home side deserved their win, the six - nil score line was a not representative of the balance of the match or the skill and endeavour of the visitors.

The only true 'away' match of the season was played at Cavendish Fields perched high above Matlock and giving stunning views of the Derbyshire countryside. The pitches are accessed via an incredibly steep road which tested our cars as much as Matlock tested our players. Unfortunately the long trip from the city clearly had an impact on the team as they struggled to get into their usual rhythm and energy levels seemed lower than we have become accustomed to.

As a result Matlock, who appeared much fresher and comfortable in the conditions, were able to launch a number of early attacks. Some excellent passing resulted in a fine save from Ellie-Mae Gray in goal which led to a corner and a close range effort fired into the side netting. Further strong defending and excellent positional play from Georgia Bayliss and Player of the Match Ellie Sims kept the game goalless. However after 8 minutes Matlock's pressure paid off as a corner fired into the box ricocheted off a number of players and found its way over the line.

Pride Park were unbowed and a surging solo run and cross from Ellie Travers was met by Erin Blaney whose shot on the run went agonisingly wide.

Ellie Sims the pulled off another strong block as Matlock continued their great start to the match. It wasn't long before their lead was doubled after some great pressing play. Following this Ellie G pulled off a number of saves and Georgia a number of excellent tackles to keep the score at 2-0.

Pride Park continued to press and great work from Maleah Quintana and Milly Travers forced a series of corners which Katie Bullock fired in with power. From one of these the Matlock 'keeper, who was in great form throughout, pulled off a point blank save from a thunderous shot from Erin.

Matlock attacked again, extending their lead to 3-0 with a long range effort. Saves from Ellie brought cheers from the crowd and praise from the opposition manager but Matlock produced another trademark attack involving four players and finished with a precise shot which left the half time score 4-0.

The second half was much closer as Pride Park appeared to have warmed up and began to play as we know they can. Matlock were thankful to their defence and keeper for preserving their lead and wonderful tackling from Georgia Baylis and debutant Halle Burton, looking assured in midfield, kept the score 4-0. However a team of 20 players couldn't have kept out the Matlock fifth which was hit from fully 20 yards with a power and accuracy that would make any premier league player proud. 5-0.

An attack from Pride Park involving Ellie, Maleah and Milly ended with a shot from Halle which smacked off the post. Further saves from both keepers kept the score at 5-0 until Matlock clipped in their sixth and final goal.

Pride Park still fought for a consolation and a terrific shot from Ellie Travers looked to have given them it only for the shot to fly past.

At the full time whistle the referee took time to speak to the team and tell them how well they'd played and how the score did not reflect the match or their performance, which the coaches absolutely agreed with.

Ellie Sims as the Player of the Match for her outstanding defensive work and a real captains performance.