3 wins out of 3, including the Ladies 1's away.
Newcastle University 1 0-1 Fylde 1
It was an early start at Newcastle in a game in which Fylde knew it was about bringing their A game. The previous game against Newcastle was nip and tuck and we needed to be at it.
The first quarter was a high intense battle in which Fylde got off to a flyer getting a PC after 25 seconds but the strike went wide but the approach was spot on in attack and defence. The tackling was clean and positive throughout the first half with Merrick, Carter, Rukin and Partington protecting Barker superbly with just a couple of smart saves to make. Rukin and Carter seemed to be thriving in the 1v1 battles and met their forwards well picking up every free hit. As the half went on the work rate and intensity shown by the whole team was keeping Newcastle at bay and further corners were created. The interceptions and ball carries from Zappulla, Perry and McGarvey made the difference. It was 0-0 at half time but the momentum was with Fylde.
The 2nd half was like a game of chess with the forwards Sinclair-Bruce, Savidge, Wharton and Lindsey pressing very effectively. Lindsey was in her own battle against the Newcastle play makers but supported through every phase by the solid Fylde unit. This togetherness brought the only goal converted by Jess Wharton with a smart finish over the keeper. The intensity at which Fylde maintained was commented on by the umpires and led to the victory.
Special mention must go to the travelling supportive parents and fans. The result keeps the team 2nd in the league with Player of the match was awarded to Pru Lindsey who along with the whole squad put in the performance of the season.
Fylde 5 4-0 Lancaster 3
Fylde Ladies 5 played Lancaster 3 as they fight for points to avoid relegation. The team were out in full force with a solid defence of Fran Loffler Thompson in goal, Dawn Perruzza, Heather Appleyard and Debbie McClelland, determined to make sure Fylde didn’t concede any goals.
It was apparent from the first push back that Fylde were going to play well, as Megan Hartley Smith, Camila Wyles and Sophia Melling generated goal scoring opportunities quickly with brilliant passing. The Lancaster keep was however very strong and thwarted most attempts. Lancaster were able to break through the press easily on and hit outs but their midfield was halted by fast moving and determined defending from Fylde’s midfield of Olivia Hartley Smith, Grace Lord and Sophia Gough. Fylde maintained most of the possession moving the ball down the middle to Megan who with a lot of persistent get the ball across the line for the first goal, despite the feet of Lancaster trying to stop her, advantage was player and a penalty flick wasn’t required.
Fylde maintained there form connecting well and Camila Wyles found the back of the net as we ended the first half 2-0.
Fylde came back confident and keen to play the ball with more width. Isla Carter Tilly Tomlinson and Sara Tomlinson picked up multiple balls and played them through to the attacking trio. Sophia Melling was determined to get a goal and finally found the net making it 3-0. Fran was pretty bored by this time so we allowed a couple of attempts to sneak into the D but she simply didn't get a touch all of the game.
Camila despite struggling with cramp in the second half gave Fylde their last goal from a penalty corner. There were many of these throughout the match but Fylde failed to convert until now… Camila ditched the tomahawk and executed a solid low strike past the keeper.
Final score Fylde 4 Lancaster 0
Win as a team lose as a team. Brilliant performance, passing and connecting with each other so well, all of the game.
Lancaster also said Fylde had the best post match food. Win, win for us.
Fylde 6 Development 2-1 Brookfield Development
It’s half term which means many of Fylde’s regulars are on holiday and Club Captain Fran is called-in to defend the posts!
Having lost the away match 5-0, Fylde were able to call on the support of 4th Team regulars Nikki, Leah (Capt on the day) and Eccles sisters Liddy & Megan. Phil was on coaching duty and on his way to a third victory for the day!
It was a close match, despite Fylde’s dominance, and tempers rose as decisions altered the flow of the game.
Fylde took the lead in the first half following a fine display of close skills from Hollie Guthrie. GK Fran then produced an air kick to gift an equaliser to Brookfield!
Her excuse being that she couldn’t cope (for once!) with coaching her young players into positions whilst concentrating on keeping a clean sheet!!
Fylde replied quickly with a clever reverse stick flick finish by Ellie Hope, from a contentious penalty corner strike, and that set the mood for the second half.
Brookfield were annoyed and aggressive in the second half but Fylde met the challenge!
Young defenders Emily Finney, Claudia Jackson and Lauren Mayor all played solidly with Julie Knowles & Michelle Finney supporting Olivia Windows, Hollie Guthrie in attack.
Fran was forced to make a couple of desperate saves (one diving stick save bringing praise from the opposition and the stands!) and then needed Nikki’s support to get back up from the ground!
We survived the onslaught and deserved the win and remain the highest Development team in the division in 4th position.
This was a heartwarming performance which will strengthen the youngsters as they develop through the senior teams.
Inter-club Mixed Friendly: Blues 3-0 Whites
Fun and friendly game involving players without a league game, and even a few youngsters playing L5 & L6 later the same afternoon.
The highlight being the strong decisive tackle by 12-year old Aimee on the Men's captain Richard.
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