Stratford Ladies 1sts 3 - 3 Birmingham Uni Ladies 4ths on 31/10/09

Stratford Ladies 1s faced last years top of the table this week for an
action packed game. After 2 losses and 1 draw Stratford were keen to put on
their best performance this week and they were not to disappoint. The team
had an air of positiveness and fight about them this week, which had been
lacking in previous weeks. Fast accurate passing from the outset and some
great teamwork got Stratford into their D early in the first half to claim
a short corner. The first strike was saved but a second penalty given gave
Stratford the opportunity to capitalise and it was Rachel Kent with her
first strike under the goalies armpit to get Stratford off to a great
start, however, Birmingham were quick to respond and drew the game back to
a draw quickly after, but Stratford were not to be put off this week and
the game continued at a fast pace with everyone on the pitch giving 100%,
there was equal action in both halves and the game was open to either side
to capitalise. Birmingham got the upper hand first via a penalty flick
which took them ahead before half time. An encouraging half time talk with
some practical advice from the new coach brought the Stratford girls out
fighting again, they drew back a goal quickly from open play where Holly
Outhwaite made a great break took the ball into the D and went one on one
with the goalie, with some beautiful skill she easily achieved the goal.
With 5 subs the Birmingham Uni team kept their quick pace throughout the
match, but Stratford kept up with them, the Uni took the lead with a 3rd
goal putting Stratford under more pressure to draw it back, but after
another short corner Stratford executed a perfect routine with a slip from
Rachel to Rosie Logan on the post to slot it home. The final 10 minutes
were very tense with Stratford defence under bounds of pressure, but with
Karena Quinn (player of the match) in goal having her best game of the
season and a stirling goal line save from Sandra Leary the final whistle
went leaving the score a very respectable 3-3 draw. Stratford are now ready
for their first win and hope to meet this on Saturday.