As we continue to experiment with our line up following the arrival of 3 new players and departure of 3 key players from last year we opted to play 3 in midfield with Emily sitting just behind Chloe who played as a lone striker. Jes was back this week and she played alongside Honor in midfield with Molly partnering Lowenna in defence where they both played so well last week.
Scotton started much more brightly than last week and were quickly creating chances, Emily worked hard to win the ball in midfield and any early attacks from Ripon were quickly dealt with by Molly and Lowenna.
The first goal came from a very neat pass out of defence by Molly to Jess on the left wing, Jes ran at the defence and went past the first defender with a nice touch, her shot on goal was even better and the keeper had no chance as Jes shot low into the left of the goal.
Scotton continued to dominate but an attacking move resulted in a corner for Ripon. A superb corner flashed across the goal at knee hight, and unfortunately it was Georgina (who had just come on for Lowenna) who got her knee in the way to put into her own net. It was unlucky but we were still confident that we could get the win.
Elouise was introduced in midfield when Emily picked up an injury and she slotted in very well, getting herself forward and into some good positions. Sophie also came on into defence and was overheard to be described as "the new Molly" for her tenacious tackling and determination.
The second half saw another improvement in performance from the Scorchers and for 10 minutes we passed the ball well and showed some rewards for the efforts that we have put into training on our passing in the last few weeks. During this period Chloe got her first goal when she picked up the goal kick, turned, dribbled and shot to beat the keeper and make it 2-1. A short time later, during another Scotton attack, the ball fell to Sophie, who hit a first time half-volley into the top corner only to see the keeper tip it round the post.
Scotton were by now passing the ball well, Honor doing a vast amount of work in midfield, holding the ball and pushing forward, with the team defending well when needed.
The much deserved third goal came when Emily finished off a superb passing move including a one-two with Chloe (training paying off again!) to find space in the crowded Ripon penalty area to hit a powerful shot past the goalkeeper.
Ripon scored in the last minute to make it 3-2 but this was not to spoil a much improved performance from last week.
Player of the match was chosen by Dan, who was helping coach from the touchline. It was a tough call as many payers had improved performances from last week, but this was awarded to Emily for her hard work and superb captaincy throughout the game.
