On a drizzly Saturday Kettering 1sts travelled to Newmarket for a difficult game. With the game plan decided to ensure we maintained our shape Kettering were first to strike the back of the net with Issy driving up the left and striking the ball as soon as she entered the D. The ball flew into the back of the net and the keepers efforts were futile to stop the brillant strike. Yet Newmarket retaliated with a goal from open play where the ball bounced around in the D before being shovelled into the back of the net. The game was end to end with strong defending from Eleanor, Isla, Michelle and Gracie and chances from Lucy and Ellie. Both teams headed into half time with work to do to secure the win. As the second half commenced Kettering midfield battled with Connie, Ilana, Cath and Georgia. Newmarket got the early lead with a slap giving them the advantage. The hard efforts of the midfield putting in crosses for Lucy and Ellie was rewarded with a short corner. Ilana was able to push the ball as a deflection into the goal levelling the playing field. The 3rd goal came in quick concession with a stunning hit on the edge of the D from Georgia into the bottom left corner, giving Kettering the edge. The game continued to be a struggle with advances from Newmarket but were well defended by the whole team with Amy making a great save. However, Kettering sealed the win with Issy’s second goal of the match from a cross from Georgia and a brillant finish. There were joint players of the match between Connie, for her strong tackles and carrying the ball across the pitch and Katie for her tireless string of tackles and superb defending. Onwards next week for a top of the table clashagainst Cambs Uni.
Match report written by Isla.