| Fixture dates |
Home v Away
Reports |
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10.5.08 |
Wantage
v CFC U 10 - Cup final |
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26.4.08 |
Didcot Casuals 1 v Carterton FC 2 (Cup
Semi Final)
On a glorious but windy spring morning we were
expecting a battle if we were going to reach the Cup Final and that’s what
we got. We started the game with Nakita Alder in goal, Georgina Harriss and
Annabel Light with Rosie Herridge playing slightly in front. Megan
Attenborough and Millie Jackson made up the Midfield and Molly Bishop
playing upfront. Lyndsey Wilton, Caitlin Burns, Hannah Durnford, Natalie
Webb and Molly Little were today’s subs.
Didcot kicked off and immediately went on the attack, they piled on the
pressure and with only 2 minutes played opened the scoring. This was the
worst possible start and was something we hadn’t experienced before. This
was a wakeup call and most of the first half was spent in the Didcot half
and despite getting several shots on target we were unable to bring up an
equaliser.
The second half started as the first finished with long periods of pressure.
In the 25th minutes we got the goal that was deserved. Molly curled in a
corner which Megan duly volleyed into the heavily defended Didcot goal. This
certainly brought a lot of noise from the Carterton supporters and a few
sighs of relief. Carterton piled on the pressure but with Didcot attacking
on the break the game was finely balanced. In a 5 minute period Carterton
had a succession of corners, everyone bar the keeper pushed forward. On 31
minutes from one of these corners Megan managed to force the ball home from
a goal mouth scramble. The remaining 9 minutes was real end to end stuff
with Carterton looking to extend their lead and Didcot trying to bring up an
equaliser. With no further goals the final whistle brought cheers of relief
from the Carterton fans and groans of despair from the Didcot fans.
This game was an excellent advertisement for girl’s football with both teams
giving their all. We now look forward to a possible League and Cup double
with only Wantage standing in our way. |
|
5.4.08 |
Carterton FC 1 v Oxford Bluebirds 2
For the last game of the league Carterton kicked off.
Nikita Alder was in goal for Carterton while Lauren Whitehill, Georgina
Harriss and Rosie Herridge were the defence. In mid field were Millie
Jackson and Megan Attenborough the striker was Molly Bishop. Minding the
bench were Lyndsey Wilton, Caitlin Burns, Charlotte Grant, Mollie Little and
Natalie Webb.
Carterton kicked off and immediately went on the attack but Oxford Bluebirds
replied with their own attacking of the Carterton goals. The play went from
side to side testing each of the goalies skill and kicking ability. After 7
minutes substitutions were made and still the play was fast and thrilling.
On the 15th minute Megan scored one for Carterton to the relief of Carterton
supporters. The rest of the first half was played from goal to goal with
good saves being made from the Oxford Bluebirds goalkeeper.
In the second half Oxford Bluebirds kicked off and went on the attack
straight away resulting in a goal by Rosie Anderson. After 5 minutes
substitutions were made again and Carterton went on the attack once more
looking for their second goal, the play went from side to side each team
giving 100% Megan and Molly had a few shots at the goal but were unlucky
just missing the net and the good keeping from Oxfords keeper. On the 18th
minute Rosie Anderson got her second of the day for Oxford. The pressure was
on and Carterton played really well having shots at the Oxford goal but it
wasn’t to be and the final scores was Carterton FC 1 v Oxford Bluebirds 2.
Once again the score does not reflect the type of match that was played. I
would like to thank Oxford Bluebirds for a thrilling and exciting game. I
would also like to say well done to the Oxford Keeper who made some cracking
saves. Finally I would like to thank Carterton for the play that they made
all through the league season right to the end. Well-done girls. The Player
of the match went to Caitlin Burns for winning nearly every ball that came
here way. |
|
29.3.08 |
Carterton FC 4 v Chinnor 1
(CUP)
On a
cold wintry Saturday morning Carterton kicked off to carry on their cup
dream. Hannah Durnford started in goal and sharing the responsibility was
Georgina Harriss. Annabel Light and Lyndsey Wilton in defence with Rosie
Herridge covering the centre of defence. In midfield there was Millie
Jackson on the left and Megan Attenborough on the right. Molly bishop was
the lone striker. Warming the bench for Carterton was Caitlin Burns, Natalie
Webb, Charlotte Grant and Mollie Little.
The match was hard fought from the start with both defences being tested to
the limits. Substitutions were made every 7 minutes. On the tenth minute
Megan made a great run down the centre of the pitch coupled with an
excellent strike found Chinnor's goal. Chinnor kicked off and came back with
vengeance testing Hannah and
Georgina, on the 16th minute Lauren Powell clawed one back for Chinnor.
In the second half, it was an end-to-end game with both teams on the
offensive and defensive. A pass from Megan saw Molly Bishop’s name on the
scorecard. Chinnor still came back threatening as ever just missing
Carterton's goal. Millie managed to find the Chinnor goal after a lot of
confusion for both teams in front of the Chinnors goalmouth. Megan completed
the scoring with her second of the day. This match was one of the hardest
fought games that Carterton has had this season, I would like to thank
Chinnor for a good and thrilling game that was played in good team spirit.
The score does not reflect the match.
The girl of the game went to Megan Attenborough for covering all of the
field and the two good goals that she scored |
|
15.3.08 |
Oxford Bluebirds 3 v
Carterton FC 6
Oxford,
the only team we hadn’t faced this season, a team who have beaten most of
the top teams but also lost a few games, we didn’t know what to expect.
Oxford only had 6 fit players at the start of the game so 6 a side it was,
this does not suit our style of play but at this level it’s all about fair
play and learning the game. We started the game with Hannah Durnford in
goal, Georgina Harriss and Charlotte Grant in defence, Rosie Herridge
playing slightly in front. Megan Attenborough and Molly Bishop played
midfield/striker. Lyndsey Wilton, Caitlin Burns, Nakita Alder and Natalie
Webb kept the bench warm.
Oxford kicked off and the game flowed from end to end, on five minutes Molly
set Megan free and she made no mistake to open the scoring. A minute later
Megan returned the favour and put Molly in to double the lead. If we thought
this was going to be easy we were very much mistaken. Substitutions were
made every five minutes and we continued to push forward.
Oxford
started to push Carterton back and on eleven minutes Rosie Aderson carved
her way through the Carterton defence to narrow the lead. Straight from the
restart Oxford pushed forward and Rosie once again made the back of the
Carterton net ripple. With half time approaching and Carterton becoming more
nervous Molly picked up the ball in her own half, went past two players to
bring up her second and ensure we went in at the break ahead.
The second half ebbed and flowed until Megan collected the ball and played
it through to Molly who then set Megan free and she made no mistake to give
us some breathing space. There was a sense of foreboding amongst the
Carterton supporters but this was alleviated when Megan set Molly free to
bring up her hat trick.
Oxford
didn’t give up and on thirty five minutes Rosie brought up her hat trick to
close the gap. With two minutes to go Megan hit a shot against the post, the
ball fell to Charlotte on the edge of the box and she made no mistake when
she cut the ball back to fire an unstoppable shot into the top corner.
Girl of the game was awarded to Georgina Harriss for a commanding
performance in defence, calm under pressure and never found wanting, well
played Georgina. |
|
1.3.08 |
Wantage 0 v Carterton FC 8
CUP
In a
replay of last week’s game, today we faced Wantage in the Cup. Confidence
was high and the girls were eager for the game to start. We started the game
with Nikita Alder in goal, Georgina Harris and Lyndsey Wilton in defence
with Rosie Herridge playing slightly in front. Megan Attenborough and
Natalie Webb were in midfield with Molly Bishop up front. Annabel Light,
Mollie Little, Millie Jackson, Caitlin Burns and Charlotte Grant made up the
squad. On a sloping pitch with a gale blowing Carterton kicked off and piled
on the pressure. After only 2 minutes a cross from the right from Megan was
duly dispatched by Molly. 3 minutes later the score was doubled when Molly
shot across the keeper to bring up the second. Substitutions were made every
5 minutes and as the game went on Wantage grew in confidence. Nikita was
called into action several times and each time was not found wanting. On the
stroke of half time Megan once again found Molly in space to bring up the
third.
The second half was an end to end affair with both teams having plenty of
possession and shots but both goalies were playing well and kept the score
down. The game was turned on its head on 33 minutes when Megan scored a 5
minute hat-trick. She burst through the Wantage defence and fired past the
keeper for the first; for the second she cut in form the right and fired the
ball under the keeper’s body and a poke in from a goal mouth scramble
brought up a well deserved third. A minute later Molly brought up number 7
with a fine shot. The best was saved till last when Millie hit a scorcher
from 15 yards which screamed past the static Wantage keeper.
Girl of
the game was awarded to Nikita Alder for a commanding performance, a clean
sheet and some much improved kicking. |
|
23.2.08 |
Carterton FC 5 v Wantage 1
Having
wrapped up the league title against Chinnor in our previous match the aim is
now to continue our winning streak and go unbeaten for the whole season. On
a lovely spring morning we welcomed Wantage to Monahan Way. We started the
game with Nikita Alder in goal, Annabel Light and Lauren Whitehill at the
back with Rosie Herridge playing slightly in front. Megan Attenborough and
Millie Jackson made up the midfield with Molly Bishop up front. Wantage
kicked off and Carterton immediately went on the attack looking for an early
goal and it wasn’t long in coming. Two minutes in Annabel found Rosie who in
turn found Megan; a strong run through the Wantage midfield, she then found
Molly in space who wasted no time in opening the scoring. We didn’t have to
wait long for the second, after a fine run down the right wing Megan’s cross
was turned in by Molly. Substitutions saw
Georgina, Lyndsey, Caitlin and
Charlotte come on. Wantage
started to push forward and a strong run from Holly Clack saw her go past
three defenders before placing the ball in the right hand corner of the net,
2-1. On fifteen minutes a big kick from Hannah was helped on by Megan and
Molly calmly put the ball past the advancing keeper to bring up her hat
trick. Natalie and Mollie were introduced and we continued to push for
another goal but were unable to find the breakthrough.
The second half started much as the first did with Carterton pushing hard
for another goal. Megan, Rosie, Mollie and Millie all firing shots goal
wards, the Wantage defence and keeper doing all they could to keep the score
down. The ball was now going from end to end with both defences working hard
to keep the score down. Wantage defended bravely but another goal was always
on the cards. Megan was unlucky not to score when her shot came back off the
post and landed right at Molly’s feet for a simple tap in. Natalie, Megan
and Millie were causing the Wantage defence all sorts of problems and it
wasn’t long before Megan got the goal her performance deserved. She picked
the ball up in midfield; a mazy run saw her beat three players before firing
into the back of the net to complete the scoring. This was a fine win,
Wantages lowly league position does not do justice to the way they go about
playing their football. Our rotation system, where hopefully all the girls
get about the same pitch time is paying dividends; the improvement
throughout the season has been immense, well done girls.
Girl of the game was awarded to Natalie Webb; in only her second game she
showed great speed and skill on numerous occasions to keep the Wantage
defenders on their toes. |
|
9.2.08 |
Chinnor 0 v Carterton FC 4
On a gorgeous spring morning
we arrived at Chinnor knowing that the League Title was almost within our
grasp. We started in our usual if slightly unusual 1-2-1-2-1 formation.
Hannah Durnford in goal, Lyndsey Wilton and Annabel Light in defence, Rosie
Herridge in the holding midfield role, Megan Attenborough and Caitlin Burns
in midfield and Molly Bishop playing up front. Millie Jackson, Mollie Little
and Georgina Harriss, Nikita Alder and Charlotte Grant paced the touchline
in anticipation.
Carterton kicked off and immediately went on the offensive. Chinnor, well
organised and strong in the tackle made things difficult. Chances were few
and far between and the game flowed from end to end. We rotated the subs
every 5 minutes or so but were unable to find a way through. Chinnor, big
and powerful were causing a few problems at the back but Annabel and
Georgina were in control and when they did break through Hannah and Nikita
were there to tidy things up. The breakthrough came late into the half,
Megan found Molly on the right and her half volley flew into the back of the
net. As so often has been the case this season the girls relaxed after the
first goal had been scored and started playing a more flowing game.
We started the second half looking for an early goal and it wasn’t long in
coming. A big clearance by Hannah was collected by Molly, a little lay off
found Megan who made no mistake to increase the lead. With confidence
growing Caitlin and Millie both fired in shots on the Chinnor goal. The
third goal was a classic counter attack, Georgina won the ball in defence,
found Megan whose pin point pass to Molly saw her nut meg the last defender
and calmly beat the keeper. Megan completed the scoring with a strong run
and shot to bring up Cartertons forth. This was an excellent advertisement
for girl’s football. Highly competitive and thoroughly enjoyed by both
players and supporters. Girl of the game was shared by Annabel and Georgina
for some excellent defending against a strong and physical side.
|
|
2.2.08 |
Carterton FC 2 v Didcot
Casuals 0
Top of the table clash and
every team is out to shoot us down. After beating Didcot 6-0 in our first
encounter we were quietly confident, how wrong could we be. On a cold and
frosty morning we started the game with Nikita Alder in goal, Lyndsey Wilton
and Georgina Harriss in defence, Rosie Herridge holding between defence and
midfield, Megan Attenborough and Charlotte Grant in midfield and Molly
Bishop up front. Caitlin Burns, Mollie Little, Millie Jackson and Hannah
Durnford started as subs.
Didcot kicked off and Carterton immediately went on the attack. What we
encountered was a very well organised and strong tackling defence. The first
half was a fairly even affair with both sets of keepers being called into
action and the defences coming out on top. On another day we could have
scored 5 or 6 but for one reason or another the ball just didn’t want to go
in. Substitutions were made but the game remained goalless.
Carterton started the second half and continued to push for the elusive
first goal. Isla Nugent in the Didcot goal was performing brilliantly and
with the help of her defenders, and the woodwork on 2 occasions managed to
keep the score at 0-0. With 5 minutes to go a Didcot break was excellently
thwarted by Hannah who bravely fell at the feet of the Striker to smother
the ball. With only minutes to go the breakthrough finally came when Molly
pounced on the ball during a goal mouth scramble and fired the ball in. You
could sense the relief amongst the Carterton Management and Parents. With
only seconds still on the clock Megan found herself a yard of space on the
edge of the box and brilliantly curled the ball into the top corner.
This was definitely our hardest game of the season and great credit must go
to a vastly improved Didcot. The girls should be proud of themselves for
keeping going and not dropping their heads when the ball just didn’t seem to
want to cross the goal line, Well Done. Girl of the game went to Megan
Attenborough for playing all 40 minutes, covering every blade of grass and
scoring an excellent goal |
|
26.1.08 |
Marston Saints Angels 0 v
Carterton FC 3
Our first game of the year and our first game in six weeks. With the squad
now at 13 players pitch time was always going to be at a premium. Having
beaten Marston 3-0 in our earlier encounter we were expecting a hard fought
game and that is exactly what we got. Our starting line up was Hannah
Durnford in goal, Lauren Whitehill and Annabel Light in defence, Rosie
Herridge holding between defence and midfield, Megan Attenborough and Millie
Jackson in midfield and Molly Bishop playing up front. Lyndsey Wilton,
Mollie Little and Georgina Harriss, Caitlin Burns, Nikita Alder and debutant
Charlotte Grant warming the bench.
On a glorious morning Carterton kicked off and immediately went on the
attack. Most of the first 10 minutes were played in the Marston half but we
were unable to get a breakthrough against a well organised defence. Hannah
and Nikita were rotating in goal every 5 minutes. When Marston did attack
Rosie, Lauren and Annabel all tackled strongly and were playing intelligent
passes to Megan and Mille. The breakthrough came in the twelfth minute,
Megan picked up the ball on the edge of the box and her snap shot hit the
inside of the post before crossing the goal line. 2 minutes later Megan
bagged her second after being put in by Molly. One minute later Molly seized
on a loose ball 2 yards out to bring up Cartertons third. Mass substitutions
were now made with Lyndsey,
Georgina, Charlotte, Caitlin and Mollie all coming on.
We started the second half with the same line up as we finished the first.
Marston came out in a much more attacking formation and the game went from
end to end without either goalie really being troubled. The ever threatening
Lucy Maguire was excellently marshalled by our defence, especially the ever
improving Lyndsey. On 30 minutes Marstons first real threat on goal, a
rasping shot from the corner of the area was brilliantly saved by Nikita.
Carterton continued to push for a forth goal but were unable to break down
the resolute defending of Marston. With 5 minutes to go we reverted to the
line up that started the game. Although we were able to exert a little more
pressure we were unable to add to our total.
This was an entertaining game and both teams should be proud of the way they
played. Girl of the game went to Lauren Whitehill for playing almost all the
game, commanding the defence in the first half and some excellent attacking
down the wing in the second half
|
|
15.12.07 |
Carterton FC 7 v Tower Hill
Vixens 1
If we thought that this
would be a repeat of the 21-0 thrashing earlier in the season we were
greatly mistaken. Tower Hill have improved ten fold since our last meeting
and became only the second team to score against us. Our starting line up
was our usual 1-2-1-2-1 formation, Hannah Durnford in goal, Lauren Whitehill
and Annabel Light in defence, Rosie Herridge holding between defence and
midfield, Megan Attenborough (Captain for today) and Caitlin Burns in
midfield and Molly Bishop playing up front, Millie Jackson, Lyndsey Wilton,
Mollie Little and Georgina Harriss made up the ‘bench’. Probably with our
last meeting fresh in their minds Tower Hill started the game with 7 players
behind the ball and we were finding it hard to make the break through. In
the forth minute Megan found Molly who slotted the ball past the ever
impressive Rachael Everett. Caitlin making her first start of the season was
impressing with some strong runs and solid challenges. Megan was running
riot in the midfield and providing some excellent crosses but we were unable
to increase the lead. Substitutions were being made regularly due to the
cold conditions. Molly added her second on 8 minutes when Rachael couldn’t
hold her shot and she knocked in the rebound. Tower Hill, encouraged by the
score started pushing forward and the game moved from end to end. A slick
passing move between Lauren, Caitlin and Molly saw Megan find some space to
calmly bag her first. On the stroke of half time Megan won the ball on the
edge of the box and hit it first time to bring up her second and Cartertons
forth.
The second half started with the same line up as the first. Tower Hill were
now pushing forward more and this allowed Megan to find Molly in space and
she calmly put the ball through the out coming keepers legs. Tower Hill
pushed forward from the kick off and Amy Williamson found herself some space
just outside the box, she controlled the ball and rifled it past the
Carterton keeper. Conceding only our second goal of the season seemed to
give the girls a wake up call and there followed a sustained period of
Carterton pressure. Meagan, Millie, Lauren, Annabel and Molly all getting
shots in on goal but unable to find a way past the Tower Hill keeper. On 26
minutes with the ball flying around the area Molly managed to get her leg
round a high ball and bring up Cartertons sixth and her forth. Carterton
continued to push forward and were caught on the break a few times but some
solid defending from Georgina, Rosie and Lyndsey ensured that Hannah was not
troubled. On 35 minutes Molly found Millie from a corner and a rasping drive
from the edge of the box was helped in by Megan to bring up her hat trick
and complete the scoring. This was a highly enjoyable game with both sides
looking to play an expansive game, Well Done. We can now look forward to
next year, knowing we need not fear any team and looking forward to
hopefully continuing our excellent start to the season. Girl of the game
went to Molly Bishop for her intelligent runs, helping out the midfield and
scoring 4 good goals |
|
10.11.07 |
Didcot Casuals 0 v Carterton
FC 6
Almost the half way point of the season and we were looking to maintain our
winning start. Hannah Durnford started in goal, with Nikita Alder and
Georgina Harriss playing in defence. Rosie Herridge filled the holding role,
Megan Attenborough and Mollie Little in midfield and Molly Bishop playing as
striker. Caitlin Burns, Millie Jackson and Annabel Light warmed the ‘bench’.
Carterton kicked off and were straight on the attack but found the strong
tackling Didcot defence hard to break down. On five minutes Mollie fed the
ball to Molly who rolled it in to Megan’s path for her to open the scoring.
Didcot started to attack more and some good work in defence from Rosie,
Nikita and Annabel meant Hannah wasn’t troubled. Some excellent interplay
between Millie and Megan set Molly free who finished calmly doubling the
lead. With half time approaching a strong run from Megan ended with Molly
bagging her second and the teams third.
The second half started with
Georgina replacing Hannah in goal, who in turn went into defence.
Didcot started the half with a period of sustained play, it was all hands to
the pump and with Rosie marshalling the defence and a couple of good saves
from Georgina we were
able to keep them out. We gradually started controlling the game again and
when Caitlin found Megan she calmly brought up her second. Minutes later
Molly won the ball on the edge of the box, went round the last defender and
put the ball into the corner of the net to bring up her hat trick. The play
was now end to end and as the girls tired there were chances for both teams.
With only minutes to play Megan completed her hat trick after being put in
by Hannah. So five wins out of five and although the score line might not
reflect it, this was probably our hardest game of the season so far. What
was most pleasing was that we didn’t concede a goal even though we did a lot
of defending, well done girls.
Girl of the game was hard to choose, Megan covered every inch of the pitch,
Molly’s finishing was excellent, Annabel never missed a tackle all game. In
the end Rosie’s display in the holding role, where she controlled the play
and won nearly every ball earned her a deserved Girl of the game.
|
|
3.11.07 |
Carterton FC 3 v Marston
Saints Angels 0
1st versus 2nd, we were expecting a hard game and that’s what we
got. We started the game in our usual 1-2-2-1 formation, Hannah Durnford in
goal, Nakita Alder and Annabel Light in defence, Rosie Herridge holding
between defence and midfield, Megan Attenborough and Millie Jackson in
midfield with Molly Bishop playing up front. Caitlin Burns, Lyndsey Wilton,
Mollie Little and Georgina Harriss as starting substitutes. Marston came
looking to defend in strength and try to hit Carterton on the break. From
the start Carterton attacked with purpose playing some excellent football
but finding it hard to find a way through the 6 girl defence. On five
minutes Megan rounded 2 defenders before finding Molly who calmly slotted
home to open the scoring. We were now controlling the game but were unable
to break down the Marston defence. With Rosie controlling the middle of the
park Millie and Megan were able to roam the pitch at will. Annabel and
Nakita were able to move forward and support the midfield as we looked for
another goal. On 10 minutes Megan once again found Molly who cleverly
rounded the last defender and then shot across the goalie to bring up the
second goal. With a 2 goal cushion Lyndsey, Georgina, Mollie, and Caitlin
replaced Nakita, Annabel, Megan and Molly. Carterton continued to dominate,
controlling the game, but were unable to add to the score. The second half
started with the same line up as the first. Marston tried to attack
Carterton which led to a more open game. Lucy Maguire was a constant threat
but was well marshalled by the Carterton defence. An excellent exchange of
passes between Megan and Rosie finally found Molly who brought up her hat
trick. Further substitutions were made and although we pushed hard for more
goals the Marston defence stood strong. It would seem that teams are going
to try and defend against us, but the girls are learning that patience is a
virtue and as long as we keep playing to our strength we hopefully have the
skill and belief to break down any defence we come up against. Girl of the
game went to Megan Attenborough for setting up 3 goals, covering every inch
of the pitch and a never give up attitude |
|
13.10.07 |
Wantage 1 v Carterton FC 6
After 2
wins expectations amongst the Girls and Parents were high. We started the
game in our usual 2-1-2-1 formation, Hannah Durnford in goal, Georgina
Harriss and Lauren Whitehill played at the back, with Rosie Herridge holding
between defence and midfield, Megan Attenborough Millie Jackson in midfield
and Molly Bishop playing as lone striker. Caitlin Burns, Lyndsey Wilton,
Mollie Little and Annabel Light started as subs. The game opened with
Carterton pushing hard but unable to break through a six man Wantage defence
and their excellent keeper. With 7 minutes gone Molly found Megan who opened
the scoring. Two minutes later the same combination brought the score to
2-0. Within a minute Millie added a third with a fine long range shot. Molly
then added another, rounding 2 defenders before firing home. With a quarter
of the game gone and the Girls starting to tire, Annabel, Lyndsey, Mollie
and Caitlin replaced
Georgina, Lauren, Megan and Molly. Carterton continued to press and were
passing the ball really well but were unable to find the final touch to
increase the score.
The second half started with the same line up as the first. We continued to
press but once again found a stubborn defence and an in form keeper hard to
beat. A fine interchange between Molly, Millie and Megan brought up her hat
trick. Further substitutions were made with players being rotated every few
minutes. With 5 minutes to go Millie added her second after some sustained
Carterton pressure. With a minute to go Wantage got a well deserved goal
after their No.7 bull dozed her way through the Carterton defence.
This was a hard fought game, but we are learning all the time. There was
some great passing and our confidence seems to be increasing with each game,
this is especially noticeable amongst the defenders who are now looking to
pass their way out of situations instead of looking for the big clearance.
Girl of the game went to Millie Jackson for 2 great goals and some great
runs down the left wing. Well done girls, keep it up |
|
6.10.07 |
Tower Hill Vixens 0 v
Carterton FC 21
Game 2,
and after an opening day victory the Girls were full of confidence. As Tower
Hill only had 6 registered players it was agreed to play 6 a side. We
started the game in a 1-2-2-1 formation, Hannah Durnford in goal, Georgina
Harriss and Lyndsey Wilton played at the back, with Rosie Herridge (now
instated as team captain) and Megan Attenborough in midfield, Molly Bishop
playing as lone striker and Millie Jackson and Mollie Little starting as
substitutes. Tower Hill won the toss and decided to kick off. Rosie was
straight in, winning the first challenge of the game, passing the ball to
Molly who found Megan who calmly took the ball in her stride before firing
home for the first goal. It should be stated at this point that this was
Tower Hills first competitive match and that many of them are actually under
9’s. As Carterton piled on the pressure and the goals it was obvious that
they were too strong for the inexperienced Witney side. The team changed
positions frequently and substitutions were made every few minutes. We had 3
different goalies, 8 different strikers, everyone played in midfield and
defence but the goals kept coming. Megan and Molly both scored 7, Hannah,
Millie and Georgina got 2 and our inspirational captain weighed in with one.
This was an excellent team performance and credit should be given to the
girls for approaching it in a thoroughly professional manner. A special
mention must go to the outstanding Tower Hill Goalie who made a string of
fine saves and managed to keep the score as low as it was. Girl of the game
went to Hannah Durnford who played in every position, made some great saves
and managed to score 2 goals. |
|
22.9.07 |
Carterton FC 8 v Chinnor 0
Having
played last season a year younger than most of the other teams there was an
air of expectation amongst players and parents as our first game of the
season approached. A good pre-season training, there was genuinely a belief
that we could improve on last season. In many of last year’s games we were
not as strong or powerful as many teams, so we have worked on strength,
speed and stamina in our training sessions.
We started the game in a 2-1-2-1 formation, Annabel Light and Lauren
Whitehill (Captain for the day), played at the back with Rosie Herridge
operating between the defence and midfield. Megan Attenborough (last year’s
player of the season) and Mollie Little provided the drive from midfield
while last seasons top scorer Molly Bishop played lone striker.
On a glorious Autumn morning Carterton won the toss and elected to kick off.
Straight from the start Carterton put pressure on the Chinnor defence.
Megan, Mollie and Rosie were controlling the game feeding Molly the ball who
went close on several occasions. When Chinnor did break through the midfield
Lauren and Annabel tidied up nicely at the back. The first goal was a while
in coming but it was worth waiting for. A defence splitting pass from Megan
found Molly on the edge of the box, she calmly rounded the last defender and
slotted past the Chinnor keeper. This goal lifted Carterton, you could see
their confidence increase, and it wasn’t long before Megan drove into the
box and calmly placed the ball wide of the keeper. Having worked so hard it
was time to make some substitutions, Lyndsey Wilton, Georgina Harris and
Millie Jackson replaced Annabel, Rosie and Mollie. The game continued
backwards and forwards and as half time approached Mollie and Rosie replaced
Megan and Molly.
The second half started much as the first did with Carterton pushing hard
for another goal. Chinnor defended bravely but another goal was always on
the cards. Rosie picked up the ball and as the Chinnor defence failed to get
a tackle in she fired the ball into the back of the net. This goal was a
wake up call for Chinnor and they had a period of sustained pressure. Sarah
Harrison was particularly causing the Carterton defence problems and forced
an incredible one handed save out of Hannah. After a period of stale mate
Annabel, Megan and Molly reintroduced. This had an immediate impact with
Megan rounding 3 players before calmly finishing. Another goal wasn’t long
in coming and after some excellent passing Megan scored to bring up her
hatrick. Carterton kept on pushing and it wasn’t long before Molly also
gained her hat trick, with the third rounding two defenders and the goalie
before slotting the ball home. After a few more substitutions Megan finished
the scoring after a great passing move. This win surpassed all our
expectations but confidence is high and we go into the game with Tower Hill
with a new found belief that we can compete with the best. No girl of the
game was awarded as it was felt that the whole team performed well above
expectations. |
| Fixture dates |
Home v Away
Reports |
 |
|
26.4.08 |
Marston Saints Angels 3 v Carterton FC 0
The last league game of the season and after a whole month without a
match, the girls were anxious to get a game of football. Games against
Summertown Stars at Home (5.4.08) and Away (19.4.08) were both called off by
Summertown and the Home and Away wins were awarded to Carterton. The girls
were grateful for the points, but would have preferred the games. The girls
turned up at Osler road with a full side to choose from. Jenna Steptoe who
was suffering with a hand injury, bravely took up her role in goal. Rebecca
Burns and Courtney Curle made up the defence with Ellis Warner playing in
front of them in her usual role of central midfield. Captain Of The Day,
Georgina "Gigi" Graham took up the left wing role with Amiee Black on the
right wing, who were both supporting Girls U11 Top Goal Scorer Anise Da
Silva Martins as lone striker. Hollie Merriman and Megan Rockett started as
first subs.
Carterton kicked off and lost possession almost immediately with Marston
Saints on full charge as they drove the ball down the right and made the
first attempt at the "Reds" goal in under a minute. The resulting shot
finding only the side netting. On 2 minutes Marston had another shot at goal
but saw the effort go well over the cross bar for another goal kick. Marston
looked determined to score and applied full pressure. Tackling and constant
pressure from Ellis, Courtney and Rebecca kept the home side at bay. Amiee
got the ball in space and made a darting run for the home sides goal with
Anise in support, but sadly for Amiee her cross went out for a goal kick.
Marston Saints broke the deadlock on 14 mins from a corner when an unmarked
forward pounced on the corner kick to make it 1-0 to the home side. Marston
tried constantly to double lead before half time, but all their efforts were
superbly dealt with by Courtney, Ellis and Rebecca.
HALF TIME: Marston Saints Angels 1 v Carterton FC 0
Luck didn't seem to be on our side today as a shot from Anise less than a
minute after the restart was blocked by a defender, out to Hollie who's shot
pulled just wide of the post. Unlucky Girls. Megan came on for Rebecca and
was called upon almost straight away when a high ball came in and was
spectactularly headed back up field by Megan. Anise and Amiee worked well
and almost had their efforts pay off when Anise crossed the ball to Amiee
who just couldn't get the final touch on the ball and saw it go out for a
goal kick. The resulting goal kick found its way to Ellis who passed to
Hollie on the wing. Hollie made a tremendous run up the right but was unable
to deliver the cross due to having two Marston Saints players breathing down
her neck. Courtney and Megan made way for Rebecca and "Gigi" who slotted in
at right and left back respectively and found themselves called upon to hold
out a barging Marston Saints attack. Marston doubled their lead on 31
minutes from another corner. A goal line scramble after the corner kick saw
the ball poked in to make it 2-0 to the home side. It was 3-0 two minutes
later when an excellent one-two saw the home striker with only Jenna to
beat. An injury to Hollie saw Courtney come back on in defence, Amiee move
to right wing and "Gigi" to left wing. The last five minutes of not only the
game, but of the season saw an onslaught of Marston Saints shots that were
blocked and headed out by Courtney on the left and blocked out and well
tackled by Rebecca on the right. One last attack on the home sides goal by
Anise, "Gigi" and Amiee saw some great link up play by the forward three.
The shot at goal by "Gigi" sadly for the away side, pulled wide.
FULL TIME: Marston Saints Angels 3 v Carterton FC 0.
Maybe going a whole month without a game was a contributing factor. The only
negative was not closing the ball down quick enough and giving the side
options to play the ball. It is the end of the season. The Management are
looking forward to next season. Last season we played 8, Lost 8. This season
we have played 22, Won 9, Drew 3, Lost 10. It's a massive improvement to a
team that at the start of last season had never played football before. We
all now look forward to the summer tournaments.
PLAYER OF THE MATCH today went to COURTNEY CURLE for her excellent defensive
display and constantly encouraging her team that even when goals down, you
should keep going. |
|
19.4.08 |
Summertown Stars v Carterton FC
For the second time this season, Paul Chamberlain and Summertown Stars
had to award Carterton Girls the win and the three points due to having
insufficient players for the match. Again this was a shame because as much
as the Carterton girls were grateful for the 'Awarded' win and the three
points, they would have preferred to have played the matches and won the
points playing football. This result puts Carterton on 30 league points with
one game left to play. Marston Saints Angels next week is a stern test of
the girls, but if they carry their training ground form into the game, it
should make an interesting game of football. The girls have definately
finished 7th in the league. Win, Lose or Draw, it doesn't matter as long as
the girls go on the field and come off with a smile on their faces.
insufficient players for the match. Again this was a shame because as much
as the Carterton girls were grateful for the 'Awarded' win and the three
points, they would have preferred to have played the matches and won the
points playing football. This result puts Carterton on 30 league points with
one game left to play. Marston Saints Angels next week is a stern test of
the girls, but if they carry their training ground form into the game, it
should make an interesting game of football. The girls have definately
finished 7th in the league. Win, Lose or Draw, it doesn't matter as long as
the girls go on the field and come off with a smile on their faces. |
|
5.4.08 |
Carterton FC v Summertown Stars
Carterton were awarded the home win against Summertown due to the away
side having insufficient players for the trip to Monahan Way. However
theinsufficient players for the trip to Monahan Way. However the Carterton
girls will not have long to wait to face Summertown for the first time this
season as they have the away fixture to play on the 19th April. This game
was originally to be played on the 8th December 2007, but was postponed due
to the bad weather at the time. The girls are thankful for the 3 points, but
would have preferred to have played the match. Sadly at this time of the
season it is becoming impossible to keep rearranging fixtures. The girls are
looking forward to playing the "Stars" on the 19th as it is the only team
that we have not played against yet, home or away. |
|
29.3.08 |
St.Edmunds 6 v Carterton FC
1
Carterton arrived at
St.Edmunds, Boxhill Road ground and hoped that the bad weather forecasted
would stay away until after the final whistle. Today's Captain of the day
Rebecca Burns started in her usual position of right back and was partnered
in defence by Courtney Curle on the left with Jenna Steptoe in goal. Ellis
Warner on the back of two Player Of The Match awards in a row was in her
favoured position of central midfield. Georgina "Gigi" Graham and Hollie
Merriman on the left and right wings respectively with 25 goals this season
Anise Da Silva Martins as lone striker. Amiee Black was absent today which
left Megan Rockett as the only sub. Carterton kicked off the first half and
couldn't have started better. From the kick off, straight to Hollie who
burst up the right of the pitch but had her effort blocked out for a "Reds"
throw in. Hollie took the resulting throw in with power, straight at the
St.Eds keeper who coudn't keep hold of it and "Gigi" for the second week in
a row was in the right place at the right time to slam it in with only 45
seconds on the clock for Carterton to take the early lead. The celebrations
were cancelled out a minute later when a blocked shot by Courtney, fell to
the feet of an unmarked St.Eds striker who shot from close range to make it
1-1. Jenna pulled off a a good save a minute later when the home side shot
from long range. St.Eds piled on the pressure but Rebecca and Courtney stood
up to the challenge and worked well together to keep St.Eds out. Anise was
fouled up near the St.Eds penalty box and stood firm to the challenge and
refused to "come off for a bit" as she was determined to add to her
impressive goal tally and applied a lot of pressure on the home sides
defence and goal. St.Eds took the lead on 12 mins when a moment of confusion
in the box saw four players go for the ball and then stop. The waiting
St.Eds striker took adavantage of the situation to make 2-1. St.Eds made it
3-1 less than a minute later when a high shot from long range found it's way
into the back of the net. Sadly Jenna could only get her fingertips to it
but couldn't prevent the third goal. Unlucky Jenna. Anise almost pulled a
goal back for the away side after a fabulous run by "Gigi" up the left wing
saw her pass the ball to Anise in space who drove the ball forward but sadly
saw her thunderous shot pull wide of the goal. St.Eds were on the attack
again down the left this time. A shot into the box was blocked out by
Courtney for a corner. The resulting corner was headed by Courtney out of
the danger area. St.Eds looked determined to score again in the first half,
but were held back by some excellent defending by Rebecca, Courtney and
Ellis.
HALF TIME: St.Edmunds 3 v Carterton FC 1
An injury to Hollie saw Rebecca take over on the right wing and Megan slot
in at right back. An effective move by the Carterton Manager as Rebecca had
an early shot on goal from a pass by Anise. St.Eds took a 4-1 lead when a 3
on 1 left them with only Courtney and Jenna to beat. It was 5-1 a minute
later after another shot from long range saw St.Eds take a four goal
advantage. St.Eds really upped the pressure and were shooting from every
angle. An effort from the left saw Courtney block the shot out for a corner
to St.Eds. Jenna pulled off the save of the game, when a thunderous shot
from outside the box was fingertipped over the bar by the "Reds" keeper.
St.Eds made it 6-1 soon after from another shot outside the box. A foul on "Gigi"
saw Hollie move to the left, Courtney move to right wing and Rebecca move to
left back. A foul on Courtney in the midfield saw the ref give a "drop ball"
??? After the drop ball hit the ref from the St.Eds player, Courtney passed
the ball upfield to Hollie who shot from a good 25 - 30 yards out but saw
her magnificent strike just go over the bar. Several more attempts were made
by St.Edmunds, but a waiting Rebecca in defence looked determined not to let
anything go through her as she cleared the ball upfield from the home side
attack.
FULL TIME: St.Edmunds 6 v Carterton FC 1.
A few positives from this game were that our defence stood up to the
challenge and weren't intimidated by the ever attacking home side. Cutting
down the long range efforts are something for the "Reds" to work on. Some
great attacking play by our forwards throughout the game should have been
rewarded with more goals. If the result was on effort then it would have
been a draw. Summertown Stars next week at Monahan Way is our chance to get
back to winning ways. PLAYER OF THE MATCH today was very close, but went to
COURTNEY CURLE for her excellent defencive display and constantly
encouraging her team to keep going |
|
22.3.08 |
Chinnor 'A' 4 v Carterton FC
2
After
three straight wins. Carterton were confident of a good result away at
Chinnor. The weather on the day did not help the mood as it was cold,
blustery with the odd few snowflakes in the air. Captain of the day Georgina
"Gigi" Graham started on the left wing alongside top goal scorer Anise Da
Silva Martins (striker) and Hollie Merriman (right wing) up front. Ellis
Warner in her usual position of central midfield with Courtney Curle and
Megan Rockett at left and right back respectively. Jenna Steptoe in between
the sticks. Amiee Black started as first sub.
The first half was definatley not Carterton's best. A count of eleven shots
at Chinnor's goal from Anise, "Gigi" and Hollie, including a few one on
one's were either wide, high or straight at the keeper. Chinnor took the
lead on 9 mins. A shot from the left side of the penalty box flew past all
in the box and into goal. Almost straight after the restart a shot from
Hollie with only the keeper to beat saw her hit the side netting. Chinnor
made it 2-0 on 14 mins with a powerful low effort from inside the box. "Gigi",
Anise and Hollie had several more attempts at goal but either couldn't beat
the superb Chinnor keeper or shot wide of goal.
HALF TIME: Chinnor 'A' 2 v Carterton FC 0
Amiee came on for "Gigi" and almost made a perfect impact. A run from Amiee
inside her own half all the way up field, passed the ball to Anise who
couldn't get the finishing touch on the ball and saw it go out for a goal
kick. A shot at goal from Chinnor was blocked out by Courtney who cleared
the ball upfield to Ellis who passed the ball up field to Amiee who's run up
the right was blocked out for a throw in to Carterton. Ellis took the
resulting throw in and found Anise unmarked in the box. Anise made no
mistake this time as her left foot shot sailed past the keeper and into goal
to make it 2-1. However, the celebrations were short lived as a goal kick to
Carterton saw the ball kicked straight to the feet of a waiting striker who
shot from range at the empty goal to make it 3-1 to the home side. Courtney
from an attack at goal, cleared the ball upfield to Hollie on the left who
sadly couldn't prevent the ball going out for a goal kick. Anise almost
pulled another goal back from close range. Sadly her effort only found the
hands of Chinnor's keeper. It was 4-1 soon after when a shot on goal was
saved by Jenna who sadly couldn't clear the parried shot away from the
Chinnor striker waiting on the back post to tap it in. Carterton made it 4-2
soon after when Hollie shot across goal and found "Gigi" waiting on the back
post herself to slam it home.
FULL TIME: Chinnor 'A' 4 v Carterton FC 2.
On an awful day, an awful result. A total of sixteen shots at goal and only
two goals to show for it. We need to improve on the finishing if we are to
try and get a good result against St.Edmunds next weekend. Sadly the girls
couldn't get the four in a row. Four more games left and twelve possible
points. Let's see how things go. PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to ELLIS WARNER
the second week in succession for her great midfield play. |
|
15.3.08 |
Carterton FC 6 v Kennington
0.
A 1-6
win at Benson followed by a 3-0 win against Tower Hill. Could Carterton make
it three wins in a row. The team was confident of a good result. The
management had a small reshuffle of the team. Up front saw top goal scorer
Anise Da Silva Martins in her usual position as striker who was supported on
the wings by Georgina "Gigi" Graham and Captain of the day Ellis Warner. The
back three was made up of Rebecca Burns on the right, Amiee Black in the
central midfielders role with Courtney Curle in her usual position of left
back. Jenna Steptoe in goal. Hollie Merriman and Megan Rockett as the first
subs.
Kennington won the toss and chose to kick off. Ellis took the ball from the
away side and found Anise in space, who opened the scoring on 1 minute with
a side footed shot across the keeper. Kennington pushed forward but a
waiting Courtney in defence saw her clear the ball upfield to "Gigi" who saw
her shot on goal pull wide. Anise made it 2-0 on 10 mins from a goal kick
straight to her feet. Anise dodged past the oncoming defender and struck a
powerful low shot past the keeper. Three goals in three minutes saw
excellent play from the "Reds". On 14 mins, a shot from Hollie rebounded off
the keeper and Anise was there to tap in the loose ball for her to claim her
Hat Trick. On 15 mins, A throw in by Ellis was passed back by a Kennington
defender to Hollie up front who in acres of space, composed herself and
struck the ball low and wide of the keeper to make it 4-0. It was 5-0 on 16
mins. An Ellis run down the right wing saw her breeze past a very static
defence and pass the ball to Anise in acres of space herself. Anise
controlled the ball, and struck low with power for Cartertons 5th of the day
and her 24th of the season. Kennington "hoofed" the ball upfield and had
three players running after the ball. Sadly for them, Courtney was waiting
and left foot cleared the ball upfield to "Gigi" who ran through the defence
herself, but sadly for her, hit her shot straight at the keeper.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 5 v Kennington 0.
A massive reshuffle of the team saw Amiee move up front and Anise take over
in goal. Courtney and Jenna on the wings. Ellis back to central midfield and
Rebecca and Megan in defence. From the kick off, Amiee went straight for
goal but sadly her shot was blocked out on the edge of the box. A rare
corner to Kennington was cleared by Courtney upfield to Amiee who with no
one else up front couldn't get past the three Kennington defenders. A shot
from Ellis was blocked out for a corner to Carterton. Hollie with the corner
found Amiee in space, who with her first touch strike only found the feet of
the keeper. Unlucky Amiee. An attack by Kennington on the right side of the
pitch was dealt with quite excellently by Rebecca, who controlled the ball
and cleared back up field. Ellis found Courtney in space on the left.
Courtney sprinted the ball upfield, jumping over the feet of tackling
players, past two defenders and with her left foot crossed the ball in for
Amiee and Hollie in the box. Before they could get a shot away, the ball was
kicked out for a corner. Three corners in a row to Carterton, no goals. Only
a telling off for Courtney for pushing in the box. The last corner was
cleared upfield and was quickly intercepted by Ellis who found Courtney in
space on the left yet again. Courtney tried to run the ball up the left but
was fouled in the process. Ellis took the resulting free kick, which was
blocked out on the edge of the box. An attack by Kennington down the right
saw Megan with the biggest kick she has ever done, clear the ball upfield to
Ellis, who ran the ball down the right and with a lovely pass across the
box, found Courtney in space. Courtney struck the ball first touch into goal
for 6-0 to Carterton on the 40th minute. Courtney's goal celebration of
sucking her thumb as she is the youngest in the team was comical to all.
FULL TIME: Carterton 6 FC v Kennington 0.
It's another land mark for the girls. Three wins in a row and another great
performance. A Hat Trick of wins was definatley on the cards. The last three
games have seen Carterton score 15 goals and only concede 1. The girls are
on a roll and loving it. Next week we are away to Chinnor 'A'. Lets take
this team to four in a row. PLAYER OF THE MATCH was a hard decision today,
but eventually went to ELLIS WARNER. Captain of the day and a midfield
dynamo. WELL DONE GIRLS. |
|
8.3.08 |
Carterton FC 3 v Tower Hill
Vixens 0.
Last
week saw a brilliant display from the "Reds" after beating Benson 1-6 away.
This week we were at home to neighbours Tower Hill on a cold and very windy
day. Last weeks Player Of The Match Ellis Warner was unavailable this week
so a rethought midfield was needed. Captain of the day Amiee Black started
as striker with the support of
Georgina "Gigi" Graham and Rebecca Burns on the wings. The back
three was made up of Megan Rockett at right back, Hollie Merriman in the
central midfielders role with Courtney Curle in her usual position at left
back. Jenna Steptoe in goal and Cartertons top goal scorer Anise Da Silva
Martins started as first sub. Carterton won the toss and opted to play into
the wind with Tower Hill kicking the first half off. The "Reds" put together
some excellent play and went straight for the early goal. Efforts from
Hollie and "Gigi" pulling wide. The deadlock was broken on 8 mins when Amiee
Black hit the ball one touch from a corner and saw the ball hit the back of
the net for Amiee's first ever goal for Carterton. The rest of the first
half saw loads of efforts from "Gigi", Hollie, Amiee and Anise. Sadly all of
them either high or wide. Cartertons defence and keeper were left with very
little to do.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 1 v Tower Hill Vixens 0.
After a half time talk it was time for the "Reds" to pull together and
secure the win. A change of formation saw Courtney move to left wing,
Rebecca move to left back, Amiee move to central midfield and Hollie onto
the right wing. The home fans didn't have to wait long for another goal. On
22 mins, Hollie latched onto a "Gigi" thru ball and from the right corner of
the penalty box, unleashed a shot that bent around the keeper and into goal
for what we believe to be the goal of the season so far and Hollie's 6th of
the season. Carterton had several more attempts at goal. A deja vu moment
saw Courtney hit the ball first time from a corner just as Amiee did. Sadly
Courtney's shot had the keeper in the way to deny her her second goal for
Carterton. An attack from Tower Hill saw the ball shoot upfield and Jenna
calmly picked up the ball. The resulting kick out of the hands from Jenna
saw the ball fly over everyone and out for a goal kick to Tower Hill. If
only it wasn't so windy. The ball was heading towards goal. More attempts
from Tower Hill were cut out by Amiee making the most in midfield and at
every attempt, getting the ball upfield to "Gigi", Hollie and Courtney. All
three of the girls up front had several great chances and kept pressurising
the away goal. Tower Hills best chance came 3 minutes from time. The striker
had a one on one with Jenna, but only found her waiting hands. Jenna got the
ball back upfield and from the kick found a waiting "Gigi" who dribbled past
the defence and scored a very well deserved goal from an unstoppable low
shot for her 5th goal of the season.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC 3 v Tower Hill Vixens 0.
It's a land mark for the girls. Two wins in a row and another great
performance. We've won and drew a few times in a row. Now were with back to
back wins. Maybe a Hat Trick of wins is on the cards. Only Kennington at
home next week stands in our way. The girls are on a roll and loving it.
PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to AMIEE BLACK. Captain of the day, First goal for
Carterton and Player of the match. Not a bad Hat Trick in anyone's view.
WELL DONE CARTERTON GIRLS U11.
|
|
1.3.08 |
Benson 1 v Carterton FC 6.
After the humiliating defeat to Kidlington a fortnight ago, the
"Reds" were eager to get back to winning ways. After beating Benson 3-1 at
Monahan Way earlier in the season, the girls were confident of another good
result.
Courtney Curle was Captain for the fifth time this season and was partnered
by Rebecca Burns in defence. Jenna Steptoe in goal. Ellis Warner, Georgina "Gigi"
Graham and Hollie Merriman made up a 3 across midfield with top goal scorer
Anise Da Silva Martins as lone striker. Amiee Black and Megan Rockett
started as first subs.
The start was not the best for Carterton as they conceded after only 21
seconds for the home side to take the lead. This was the wake up call the
"Reds" needed and after a rallying shout from the captain, they then
bombarded the Benson goal and took seven shots in the first seven minutes
with efforts from Anise, "Gigi" and Hollie. A moment of "will it, won't it
go in" saw a shot from Anise, hit the keeper, off the post, off the keeper
and off the post again and out for a corner. The ball from countless shots
just refused to go in the home sides goal. Anise made it 1-1 on 11 mins when
Jenna, with a great kick from the hands, put the ball over the halfway line
and into Anises's path with only the keeper to beat, which she did with a
thunderous low shot. Hollie and "Gigi" took turns on having shots at the
home keeper after Ellis found them countless times in open space. It was 1-2
soon after. An attack from Benson in our penalty area saw Rebecca take the
ball from the attacking player, run it up field and deliver a beautiful pass
to Anise who coolly slotted it home for the visitors to take the lead. It
could easily have been more to the "Reds" after Amiee came on and made a
noticeable impact, delivering great passes upfield to the attacking players
and along with Ellis, kept dispossessing the home side of the ball.
HALF TIME: Benson 1 v Carterton FC 2.
It was almost 1-3 after only 9 seconds on the second half clock. Carterton
kicked off and went straight for goal and found Amiee in space who with a
thunderous shot of her own smashed the ball off the post. Unlucky Aimee. The
home side almost evened the scores when a Benson striker had a one on one
with Jenna that was blocked out by a very fast Ellis retreating back to help
the keeper to put it out for a corner. The corner was cleared upfield to "Gigi"
who ran the ball into the box but sadly saw her shot pull wide. Anise scored
her hat trick goal soon after with some great skills, jinking round the
defence and keeper to make it 1-3. Amiee and Ellis combined well and found
Hollie in space, who ran the ball up field but unlucky for her, saw her shot
pushed out for a corner. The resulting corner was cleared for a throw in to
the "Reds" which resulted in 1-4 for the away side when a huge throw by
Ellis saw the ball bounce to "Gigi", who shot, the ball blocked by the
keeper and Hollie was there to dab it over the line for her fifth goal of
the season. Benson had a minute of their own, attacking the away goal, but
were unable to break down Courtney, Megan, Rebecca and Ellis to get a clean
shot at Jenna's goal. Courtney constantly shouted for her team to keep going
and to score more. The wait wasn't long. An excellent pass from Ellis to
Aimee, who delivered the thru ball to Anise in space for her to make it 4
for herself and 1-5 to the visitors. It was 1-6 almost straight after. Ellis
again showing superb skills to find Anise unmarked and in too much space.
Anise shot from range to make it 5 goals for the day, 20 for the season so
far and 1-6 to Carterton. A last ditch effort from the home side saw their
striker barge through the middle and into the "Reds" area. A very brave
tackle from Ellis saw her go off for the last few minutes and a corner to
Benson which was cleared upfield by Hollie.
FULL TIME: Benson 1 v Carterton FC 6.
What better way to get the ball rolling again (pardon the pun). Not only a
win, but a convincing one at that. The last count from the management and
spectators was 27 shots on goal. Not bad for a 40 minute game. The girls
played with a smile on their faces and communicated well. They found each
other in space and worked as a team. The player for player marking meant
that Benson never really got a clean shot at goal throughout the game. WELL
DONE GIRLS. Tower Hill at Monahan way next week. It could be our first back
to back wins in our ever improving team. We look forward to the visit of our
neighbours.
The management and spectators had a tough time choosing a player of the
match this week as all the girls played exceptionally great. PLAYER OF THE
MATCH eventually went to ELLIS WARNER for her many shows of skill, courage
and being able to pick out her team mates in space. |
|
17.2.08 |
Kidlington 7 v Carterton FC
1
The game was delayed by 20 mins due to a frozen pitch. Once the referee and
both teams management agreed that the playing surface was now thawed, it was
kick off time.
Jenna Steptoe in goal, Courtney Curle and Rebecca Burns in defence. Ellis
Warner in central midfield with Captain of the day Georgina "Gigi" Graham
and Hollie Merriman on the wings. Cartertons leading goal scorer Anise Da
Silva Martins was lone striker. From the kick off, Kidlington looked deadly
took the lead early from a massive defensive error from the "Reds". Anise
attempted to level the scores with a long range shot that pulled well right
of the goal. Kidlington made it 2-0 midway through the half. A lack of
defending saw the Kidlington striker smash the ball through Jenna's legs to
double their lead. Anise, from a great run by Hollie had another shot on
goal with her left foot this time. Her shot just pulling wide. Kidlington
made it 3-0 soon after. The initial shot was saved by Jenna, the follow up
shot blocked by Courtney and then fired into goal on the third attempt. A
shot from "Gigi" from a corner was well saved by the Kidlington keeper.
HALF TIME: Kidlington 3 v Carterton FC 0.
The half time team talk with the girls didn't seem to work as Kidlington
made it 4-0 after only 25 seconds on the clock. Another defensive error left
the home striker with too much time and space to pick where she wanted to
put the ball. Jenna pulled off two saves within a minute to try and keep the
score down. Sadly Kidlington made 5-0 straight after. A succession of
rebounded goal kicks from Carterton saw the home side shoot for more. Only
luck kept the ball away from goal. Kidlington, with a "1966" moment saw the
ball hit the crossbar and bounce on the line and into Jenna's hands ( no
Russian line judge to give it this time). Anise drove the ball upfield and
struck a beautiful shot that sadly for her, hit the post and was cleared up
field. Unlucky Anise. Anise had another attempt a minute later that was well
caught by the home side keeper. Kidlington made it 6-0 from another
defensive error. No one picking up the attacking players in free space. It
was 7-0 a minute later. No defence again. A nil score was on the cards for
the away team until a free kick to Carterton saw Anise from 25 yards out,
strike the ball perfectly over the defensive wall and into Kidlingtons net
for her 15th goal of the season and for what can only be called, a
consolation goal for the visitors.
FULL TIME: Kidlington 7 v Carterton FC 1.
We lost 0-1 at home to Kidlington earlier in the season and now 7-1 away.
This game showed why Kidlington are top of the table. Carterton need to
communicate and work on the defence as this game showed how easily they
could be opened up. Our next game is away to Benson on March 1st. We won 3-1
last time. However we need to iron out our faults if we are to get a good
result. A couple of positives but a lot of negatives for Carterton. These
will be used as learning tools to make our team stronger as mistakes are
just lessons that have to be learnt.
PLAYER OF THE MATCH today went to ANISE DA SILVA MARTINS, who showed that
even when a few goals down, we shouldn't give up. |
|
9.2.08 |
Carterton FC 0 v Ducklington
0.
The
Carterton girls turned up at Monahan Way proudly showing off their new
tracksuits on behalf of sponsor's A. K. Timms Building Supplies. The
"professional" look seemed to boost the girls confidence as they were
determined to get a good result against our local rivals. Carterton Captain
of the day and utility player Amiee Black started as sub along with Courtney
Curle who was trying to shake off toe and knee injuries. This meant another
start for Megan Rockett in defence alongside fit again Rebecca Burns with
Jenna "The Rock" Steptoe in goal. The "Reds" went for a diamond formation
with Ellis Warner at central midfield with Georgina "Gigi" Graham and Hollie
Merriman on the left and right wings respectively. Leading goal scorer Anise
Da Silva Martins led the attack. The "Reds" attacked early and had several
fine shots from Anise, Hollie and "Gigi". Sadly none of them able to open
the scoring. Ducklington broke through on the left and shot for goal. Jenna
pulling off a fine save at the feet of the oncoming striker. Ducklington
applied the pressure full on and kept Jenna busy pulling off quite a few
nice saves. Carterton conceded three corners in a row and defended them all
well. The last being cleared upfield. Anise almost broke the dealock on 16
mins. Her left footed shot pulling wide of goal. The visitors continued to
pressurise the home defence. Amiee, Megan, Courtney, Ellis and Rebecca when
each in turn on the field stood up to the challenge.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 0 v Ducklington 0.
The "Reds" kicked off the second half and put the pressure on the away goal.
Anise having the early shot which was blocked out for a corner to the home
side. The resulting corner cleared upfield. Hollie, "Gigi" and Amiee pressed
forward supporting each other upfield but sadly couldn't put the finishing
touch on a superb run. A heart in throat moment saw Anise jink past the
defence and put a cross in for Hollie to run onto. Sadly her fist touch
being too strong allowing the Ducklington keeper to pounce on it.
Ducklington pressed forward again and pulled out another save from Jenna
from long range. Ducklington pushed forward from midfield and headed
straight for goal with a run down the right which was closed out by Amiee
and Megan and cleared back upfield. The visitors through all they had into
the attack in the final few minutes. Some brave tackles from Amiee, Rebecca
and Courtney saw that they did not get through to have a chance on goal. One
final chance from the home side. Ellis to Amiee with a great pass upfield to
Anise saw her with only a defender and the keeper to beat. Anise with the
pressure applied on the run by the defender, shot wide.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC 0 v Ducklington 0.
A 1-1 draw last time and 0-0 this time. We seem to be very evenly matched.
Both teams played well and the result was fair as neither team deserved to
lose. The only bad point to this game was the crowd abuse given to the
referee from the away spectators which upset the players, spectators and
management. PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to JENNA STEPTOE for the 3rd time this
season. For her bravery under pressure and for pulling off some excellent
saves for her to claim her 3rd clean sheet of the season. |
|
2.2.08 |
Chinnor B 0 v Carterton FC
6.
This
was Cartertons first game away to Chinnor after their 'A' fixture was
postponed a few weeks ago. The "Reds" were confident of a victory over a
team that had conceded 69 goals over their last eleven games. Carterton were
missing Rebecca Burns through illness so Megan Rockett made her second start
at right back. A reshuffle of the side saw regular left back Courtney Curle
partner Captain of the day Hollie Merriman up front. Ellis Warner and
Georgina "Gigi" Graham made up the midfield with Amiee Black partnering
Megan in defence. Jenna Steptoe after her player of the match performance
last week was in goal. Anise Da Silva Martins was the first sub.
Cartertons confidence was almost dashed very early into the game when
Chinnor kicked off and had a shot on the "Reds" goal with only 8 seconds on
the clock. The shot clipped the post and out for a goal kick. Chinnor 'B'
looked like the team that would score first, when a shot on 2 mins was
destined for the "Reds" net. An overhead catch by Jenna, denying the early
score for the home side. Carterton broke the deadlock less than 30 seconds
later. A pass from Hollie on the right to Courtney, who fed the ball into "Gigi's"
path. A powerful low shot from the "Reds" left winger made it 0-1 to the
visitors. Chinnor almost made it 1-1. A shot from a Chinnor striker was
blocked out by Megan for a corner kick. The resulting corner was cleared up
field to "Gigi" who jinked round the midfield and defence and laid the ball
off to Hollie who made no mistake in making it 0-2 to the "Reds" with a
power shot of her own. A quite unnecessary bad tackle on Courtney which
resulted in a free kick saw her go off and make way for Anise. The biggest
talking point of the first half was when a corner from "Gigi" was clearly
blocked by the hands of a Chinnor defender and no penalty was given. Almost
two minutes of play saw four successive corners given to Carterton. Sadly no
goals at the end of them. A break from Chinnor down the left was blocked out
yet again by Megan who's jockeying and clearance kicks are improving after
every training session and match. Anise made it 0-3 on 17 mins. A pass
across goal by Ellis was put in the net comfortably by the Carterton #8.
Chinnor had one more attempt at goal before half time. Megan ran across the
attacking player leaving an easy rolling ball for Jenna to pick up. Two more
goal attempts were made by Courtney and "Gigi". Both shots straight at the
keeper.
HALF TIME: Chinnor B 0 v Carterton FC 3.
Straight from the "Reds" kick off, Hollie ran the ball down the right and
shot for goal, which was deflected out for a corner. The next two minutes
saw Chinnor 'B' give away an amazing 7 corners in a row. Carterton unable to
score off any of them. A break up the middle of the pitch by a Chinnor
striker, who only had Jenna to beat saw the "Reds" keeper pull off a neat
save when the home striker shot to the right of the goal and Jenna flick her
foot out, clip the ball to Amiee and keep the clean sheet. Anise scored her
second of the match and 14th of the season on 27 mins from a throw in by
Ellis. Carterton made it 0-5 two minutes later. A cross from Anise was met
by a Chinnor defender who tried to kick the ball out for a corner and saw it
cruelly go into her own net. A 30 yard shot from Ellis just misses the
Chinnor goal after the "Reds" midfielder saw the Chinnor keeper off her
line. Unlucky Ellis. Carterton almost made it six a minute later when
Courtney powered the ball upfield from inside her own half to an unmarked "Gigi"
who sadly coudn't keep the ball from going out for a goal kick. "Gigi"
scored again from the resulting goal kick. A weak shot straight to the feet
of "Gigi" saw her with only the keeper to beat, which she did coolly to make
it 0-6. Courtney was left wandering what she had to do to score today as two
attempts in a minute were saved by the Chinnor keeper. Unlucky Courtney.
Megan, who had now pulled forward had a shot herself. Her shot pulled wide
leaving her to wait for her first Carterton goal.
FULL TIME: Chinnor B 0 v Carterton FC 6.
After a run of poor results. This was what the girls needed. Not only a win,
but a convincing one at that. All the girls played well and deserved the
praise they received at the end of the match. The girls have a stronger
opponent next week when Ducklington come to Monahan Way. A 1-1 draw last
time. Lets see what's in store this time. If the girls take the confidence
from this victory into next week, then I can be sure we will be in for a
good game. The Managers, Spectators and Players voted MEGAN ROCKETT as
PLAYER OF THE MATCH for her non-stop play, great tackling and overall
competitive spirit |
|
26.1.08 |
Carterton FC 1 v Cholsey
Bluebirds 3.
After
our away games to Kidlington and Chinnor 'A' were called off due to the
recent bad weather. The girls were pleased that they could finally get their
boots back on for the visit of Cholsey Bluebirds. Jenna Steptoe in goal,
Rebecca Burns and Captain of the day Courtney Curle in defence. Ellis Warner
in the central midfielders role with Hollie Merriman and Georgina "Gigi"
Graham on the right and left wings respectively and Anise Da Silva Martins
as lone striker. Amiee Black and Megan Rockett started as first subs.
Carterton kicked off and tried for the early goal. Hollie's effort firing
over the bar. From the resulting goal kick, Cholsey broke down the middle
and fired a shot in that was superbly saved by Jenna. A moment of great play
in the midfield by Cholsey saw them break again through the Carterton
defence and take another shot on goal, that was saved and picked up by
Jenna. Cholsey did take the lead on 10 mins. A break down the left saw their
striker dribble past two "Reds" defenders and hit an unstoppable shot past
Jenna. Two minutes later and another goal for Cholsey. A lack of defending
and communication saw Cholsey's goal scorer go through the defence yet again
and the resulting shot come off the bar and into goal. Carterton replied
with a goal of their own just before half time. A throw in from the left
from Ellis to Anise, saw her dribble the ball through two defenders and
unleash an unstoppable shot of her own to give her, her 12th goal of the
season.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 1 v Cholsey Bluebirds 2.
Cholsey Bluebirds kicked off the second half and tested Jenna out again. The
"Reds" keeper reacting brilliantly to deny the visitors another goal. Some
great midfield play by Ellis with a resulting thru ball to Hollie saw
Carterton's right winger fire wide of the target. From the goal kick, saw
the save of the season. A bouncing ball went straight to a Cholsey
midfielder who volleyed from just inside the halfway line. The ball was
destined for Carterton's goal. Jenna yet again pulling off a great save,
parrying the ball out for a Cholsey corner. The resulting corner was cleared
by Amiee to Hollie who ran the ball up field and shot for goal herself.
Sadly her effort being blocked out for a corner kick. Anise took the corner
well and the ball found its way to "Gigi". A goal line scramble between "Gigi"
and two defenders ensued and the ball was cleared up field. Cholsey
increased the lead further with 6 mins to go. A shot on goal saved by Jenna,
but parried forward and two defenders go for the ball, then stop and a
Cholsey striker pounced on the loose ball and put it past Jenna for 1-3 to
the visitors. The last 5 mins of the game was quite uneventful. Both sides
having attempts, but no goals.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC 1 v Cholsey Bluebirds 3.
The lack of recent matches showed as Carterton definitely play better when
they play week in, week out. Tackling and communication need to be worked
on. The girls first win of the season was against Chinnor 'B', who are our
opponents next week. An away win would lift the girls spirits and get them
back to where they belong. On winning ways. The management, players and
spectators voted JENNA STEPTOE as PLAYER OF THE MATCH. Only one mistake in
an almost flawless performance. Some great saves and quick reactions from
the "Reds" keeper saw Jenna pick up the POTM trophy for the second time this
season. |
|
15.12.07 |
Carterton Fc 1 v Marston
Saints Angels 3.
The last game of this year. At home on a cold day at Monahan Way
saw the visit of Marston Saints Angels. Injuries to Anise Da Silva Martins
(Knee) and Courtney Curle (Abdomen) saw them start as subs. This meant a
starting place for debutant Megan Rockett in defence alongside regular right
back Rebecca Burns. Jenna Steptoe between the sticks playing behind them.
Captain of the day Hollie Merriman took up the strikers role with Georgina "Gigi"
Graham and Aimee Black on the wings and Ellis Warner taking up her favourite
role as central midfielder.
M S Angels kicked off and immediately tried for the early goal. Ellis
dispossessing them in midfield cut the attack down early. A few chances from
M S Angels early on saw them test out Megan on the left. Megan, not letting
her inexperience get in the way, put the pressure on the wide attack. Aimee
made way for Anise and immediately along with Hollie, showed great link up
play and almost broke the deadlock. Hollies shot pulling wide of the post. "Gigi",
Anise and Hollie applied the pressure fully within the first 15 mins. Having
chances left, right and centre. Bad luck could be the only reason as to why
Carterton were not on the score sheet. The deadlock was broken on 16 mins.
After a magnificent save from Jenna, who parried the ball over the bar from
a one on one, meant it was a corner to M S Angels. Bad luck was the cause
again as the corner from M S Angels saw the high ball come in and a "Reds"
defender go for the clearance header, only to miss time it and head it into
her own net. Courtney replaced Megan on the left and was immediately called
upon to clear the ball up field. M S Angels tried again to make it 0-2 at
half time. Midfield dynamo Ellis dispossessing them yet again and clearing
the ball up field to Hollie, who with one last ditch effort before half
time, struck wide again.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 0 v Marston Saints Angels 1.
An early reply from Carterton was needed and that's exactly what they did.
"Reds" kick off, Ellis to Anise. Anise drove the ball up the right and
crossed it in for "Gigi" to pounce on it and claim her 2nd goal of the
season after only 54 seconds. The "Reds" seemed fired up after the early
goal and powered on with great determination to try and take the lead. Bad
luck again as all attempts pulled wide or high. A break from M S Angels on
the left saw attackers outnumber defenders and a shot from the left
deceiving Jenna and slipping through for the visitors to take the lead. The
bad luck did not end there as another shot from M S Angels hit the underside
of the cross bar, off the side post and in. Carterton, not looking
disheartened, kept fighting on and refused to give up. Hollie in a more
vocal mood, kept shouting encouragement to her team and never gave up hope
of a good result. Ellis, who obviously had her Weetabix this morning, just
kept battling on and tackling everything in her sight. Megan back on for
Courtney, put added pressure on the M S Angels attack and kept out the
threat on the left. Aimee on the left for "Gigi" made some good runs and
constantly put the ball through to Anise and Hollie. An injury to Ellis in
the last few minutes saw Rebecca take up the central midfielders role with
Megan and Aimee in defence and "Gigi" back on the wing. A last minute break
from Carterton, A shot from Hollie and the side netting was hit again.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC 1 v Marston Saints Angels 3.
Not playing since the loss to St.Edmunds could have been a factor. Our
regular striker and defender both carrying injuries also could have
contributed. Carterton played the better football and the result clearly
didn't reflect how well the "Reds" performed. Quite simply, "Bad Luck" was
the cause. Next league game is away to the leaders Kidlington. A friendly
away to Wantage on the 5th January will give us a chance to iron out any
kinks before the sterner test of Kidlington. PLAYER OF THE MATCH was a hard
choice today as Ellis and Jenna both pulled off great performances. The
award went to ELLIS WARNER for her great control of the midfield and top,
top tackling. A special mention to JENNA STEPTOE for pulling off some quite
magnificent saves throughout the match. |
|
24.11.07 |
Carterton FC 1 v St.Edmunds
2.
After
last weeks win over Kennington. The girls were up for the visit of
St.Edmunds. Last season saw the "Reds" lose 9-1, 4-1 and 4-0 to today's
guests. Carterton were certain of keeping it a much closer game. 2-3-1 was
the formation for the home team. Jenna Steptoe in goal. Rebecca Burns and
Courtney Curle in defence. Captain of the day Ellis Warner along with
Georgina Graham and Hollie Merriman made up the midfield with Anise Da Silva
Martins as lone striker. Aimee Black started as sub.
The visitors kicked off and immediately tried to make an impact. A fine save
from Jenna denying them early on. St.Eds did score first on 6 mins. A lack
of communication between defenders and goal keeper allowed the away striker
a close range shot she couldn't miss. The lead for the visitors was short
lived. A barging run by Anise from the half way line through three defenders
saw her pick out Hollie who was hanging out wide by goal. A great pass by
Anise to Hollie who put the final touch on it to level the scores. Carterton
played the better football up until half time. Even though the cold, bitter
weather was getting everyone down. The girls kept pressing on to increase
the score line. A couple of fine shots from the "Reds" pulled wide and a
power shot from "Gigi" just going over the crossbar.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 1 v St.Edmunds 1.
Carterton kicked off the second half and within a minute almost took the
lead. Hollie's shot blocked out for a corner. St.Eds took the lead on 27
mins. A lack of defending and communication allowed St.Eds to slip through
the defence and score from close range again. The forwards for the "Reds"
carried on with great spirit and were constantly encouraging each other to
keep on, "Don't Quit" and "Lets get the ball upfield and get another goal".
It was music to the Managers ears. Hollie, "Gigi" and Anise battled on to
level the scores, almost braking through several times. It felt that luck
was not on the home team's side as we just couldn't find the back of the
net. Carterton were rolling the subs constantly to keep the pressure on.
Aimee ( getting better with every game) was running the ball upfield on
numerous occasions to feed the forwards. The last ten minutes saw St.Eds put
the pressure on as they tried to increase the score line further. Chance
after chance they shot at goal. Time after time Jenna pulled out fine save
after fine save (even after copping studs to her thigh in a collision). It
was almost 1-3 to the visitors with 2 mins to go. Jenna pouncing on the ball
just as the St.Eds striker cranked her foot back ready to shoot.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC 1 v St.Edmunds 2.
The girls first loss since Sept 29th. A great game to watch even with the
cold, freezing weather. More work on defending and communication is required
before the away trip to Summertown on the 8th December, which is also
Assistant Manager Karl's 29th Birthday. 3 points to the "Reds" on that day
should be a great present. PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to JENNA STEPTOE who
showed great courage, great goal keeping and a "Don't Quit" attitude. |
|
17.11.07 |
Kennington 3 v Carterton FC
5.
After a run of good results (2 wins and 2 draws), the girls were
confident of a good result away to Kennington. Carterton welcomed back
Striker Anise Da Silva Martins from injury, who was partnered up front with
Hollie Merriman and Captain of the day Georgina Graham. Rebecca Burns and
Courtney Curle in defence with Ellis Warner playing forward of them in
midfield. Jenna Steptoe in goal and Aimee Black as first sub.
Carterton kicked off and almost immediately found the back of the net.
Anise's power shot bending wide for a goal kick. Kennington almost scored a
few seconds later from the goal kick. A great tackle from Courtney denying
them. Hollie made a run at goal a minute later, but shot straight at the
keeper. Anise opened the scoring on 5 mins. A power run through the defence
left her with only the keeper to beat, which she did with a low powerful
shot. It was almost 0-2 a minute later. "Gigi" passed to Aimee in space, who
sadly pulled her shot wide. Anise did make it 0-2 on 9 mins. A lovely run
from Aimee down the right who passed the ball forward of "Gigi". The ball
looked as though it was going out for a goal kick to the home side, when "Gigi"
kept it in and swung it across goal for Anise to claim her 10th goal of the
season. Anise almost had her hat trick goal straight after the restart.
Kenningtons keeper pulling off a good save. Kennington almost pulled one
back on 14mins if not for a fine save from Jenna. Seconds before the half
time whistle, Kennington did pull a goal back.
HALF TIME: Kennington 1 v Carterton FC 2.
A good half time talk seemed to work on the girls as they run out determined
to add to the scoreline. It wasn't a long wait. Kenningtons keeper kicked it
straight to Anise who pounced on it and hit it low and hard to claim not
only her Hat Trick but her 11th of the season. Kennington made a run into
the box and looked to score. A slide tackle from Courtney denying them and
putting it out for a corner. A handball in midfield gave Anise chance to add
to her ever growing number of goals. Her free kick just pulling high and
wide. A reshuffle of players saw defenders take over from wingers. Rebecca
moved onto the right wing with Hollie pulling back in defence. It seemed to
work as a cross from "Gigi" was met by Rebecca at the back post for her to
claim her first ever goal for the "Reds". A similar move happened two
minutes later. Courtney moved onto the left wing with "Gigi" pulling back in
defence. A cross from the right from Rebecca was met by Courtney at the back
post for her to claim her first ever goal for the "Reds" aswell. A feeling
of Deja Vu was in the air. Kennington made it 2-5 a minute later. Although
the striker seemed to "handball it" to control the ball before slipping it
past Jenna. It was 3-5 two minutes later. A lack of communication from the
wingers now defenders saw no one go for the tackle and Kennington left with
space to shoot. Anise had one more go at increasing the scoreline for the
visitors. Her shot flying over the bar. With only seconds to go, "Gigi" was
left in space in Kenningtons area. Her shot hit the keepers feet and went
out for a corner.
FULL TIME: Kennington 3 v Carterton FC 5.
Three more points and another win. A great game played in good spirit. At
home to St.Edmunds next week is a much bigger task. If the girls take the
confidence and team work into next week, it will be a great game for all.
PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to COURTNEY CURLE for her great tackling, big kicks
and constant pressure throughout the game. |
|
10.11.07 |
Tower Hill Vixens 1 v
Carterton FC 1
Cartertons first game against Tower Hill was blighted by the
injury to striker and top goal scorer Anise Da Silva Martins. Rebecca Burns
was Captain of the day alongside Courtney Curle in defence. Tower Hill only
had six players available for the visit of the "Reds" so Carterton
restructured their forwards with Georgina Graham as striker with Ellis
Warner and Hollie Merriman on the wings. Jenna Steptoe in goal and Amy Black
as sub. Carterton kicked off and looked the brighter team. The "Reds" looked
to open the score on 4 mins. "Gigi" with a power shot, sadly pulling it
wide. A minute later Hollie had an excellent chance to increase her own goal
tally this season. Her shot hitting the post and being gathered up by Tower
Hills keeper (Hitting the post - story of our lives this season). The game
carried on without any team really looking to score. All efforts by both
teams not heading anywhere near the goal or threatening either keeper. A
moment of great football by Carterton was rewarded with a goal. Ellis played
the ball from midfield to "Gigi" who, with a power shot from outside of the
box, found the back of the net to claim her first goal of the season.
HALF TIME: Tower Hill Vixens 0 v Carterton FC 1.
Tower Hill kicked off the second half and looked like the team that would
score first in this half. How right we were. On 22 mins, a barging run down
the right from Tower Hill and a lack of defending left the striker with only
Jenna to beat, which she did with a low shot to even the score. Not much
happened until 31 mins when Jenna pulled off a fine save to deny their
striker her second goal. Carterton looked as though they would score again
only to pull off a double save from Tower Hills keeper to deny Hollie and "Gigi"
their first or second goal of the day. A great pass from Amy to Hollie saw
her try to chip the keeper, only for the keeper to get her fingertips on it
and gather it up. Courtney made a run into the box and got on the end of a
cross from Hollie. Sadly a slip on the wet pitch meant she pulled the shot
wide. Hollie and "Gigi" made one last effort to take all three points in the
final minute. Hollie with the pass from "Gigi" shot straight at the keeper.
FULL TIME: Tower Hill Vixens 1 v Carterton FC 1.
Not a loss, but not a win either. The last 10 minutes saw Carterton squander
chance after chance to take home the three points. More work in training is
needed before the trip to Kennington next week. A point was gained, but 2
valuable points were dropped. PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to AMY BLACK who is
gaining valuable match experience and looks better with each game.
|
|
3.11.07 |
Carterton FC 3 v Benson 1.
arterton Vs Benson. Last
seasons bottom two. Last season Benson claimed 3 wins over the "Reds".
Carterton were determined to prevent history repeating itself. Especially
after the win against Chinnor 'B' and the draw against 'then' league leaders
Ducklington that have given the "Reds" the confidence booster needed. Jenna
Steptoe in goal. Courtney Curle and Rebecca Burns at left and right back
respectively with Ellis Warner as the holding role in midfield. Captain of
the day Hollie Merriman on the right wing with Georgina Graham on the left.
Goal hungry Anise Da Silva Martins as lone striker.
Benson kicked off and immediately tried to make an impact. Some great
Carterton defence keeping their efforts out. An early chance after a
scramble in the Benson penalty box saw Anise shoot over the bar. The
deadlock was broken on 11 mins. Hollie Merriman with a lovely thru ball to
Anise on the right saw her power the shot past the keeper to claim her 7th
goal of the season. Anise almost made it 2-0 a minute later. Her effort
sadly rebounding off the post. Carterton did make it 2-0, 5 mins later.
Hollie took the corner and the ball seemed to run along the line and then
into the goal. Unsure if a Benson defender got a final touch on it, Hollie
claimed the goal for herself.
HALF TIME: Carterton 2 v Benson 0.
Carterton kicked off the second half and immediately tried to increase the
scoreline. The effort from Hollie pulling wide. Benson pulled a goal back
when too much space was left in the Carterton defence and left their striker
with only Jenna to beat. However, Bensons joy was short lived when Anise,
from a clever thru ball from "Gigi" saw her score Carterton's third and her
8th of the season. The lack of substitutes was taking its toll on the
"Reds", but they refused to let this lead go. The front three battled on
with great communication and looked brilliant. Cartertons defence remained
solid with Rebecca putting in tackle after tackle and keeping Benson out.
Courtney with an ankle problem she sustained in the first half, battled on
bravely. Ellis now making the defensive midfield role her own was dominating
the centre and feeding the forwards the ball constantly. Several more
efforts from Anise, Hollie and "Gigi" were made. Sadly their efforts pulling
wide or being saved. FULL TIME: Carterton FC 3 v Benson 1.
6 games. The first 3 lost. The last 3 with two wins and a draw. Carterton
are becoming a team that works together. They are communicating. Cheering
each other on. Helping each other out and performing like the winning team
that the managers and spectators know they can be. Tower Hill Vixens (Away)
next week. Below us in the league. But not to be taken lightly. PLAYER OF
THE MATCH went to GEORGINA GRAHAM who dominated the left side, never let
anyone push her about and battle on til the final whistle |
|
13.10.07 |
Ducklington 1 v Carterton FC
1
After
Carterton's win against Chinnor 'B' last week, the "Reds" were on a high and
looking for a good result against our local rivals. Carterton started 2-3-1
with Rebecca Burns and Captain Courtney Curle at right and left back
respectively. Hollie Merriman, Ellis Warner and Georgina Graham making up
the midfield and Carterton "Goal Machine" Anise Da Silva Martins up front as
lone striker.
The "Reds" kicked off and immediately went straight for goal. Anise hoping
to extend her goal tally, saw her effort just pull wide. Ducklington hoping
to open the scoring early, shot over the bar. For the next few minutes it
looked as though Ducklington would take the early lead as they had corner
after corner and shot after shot saved by Jenna Steptoe in goal who was
aided by Rebecca, Ellis and Courtney (who made the most of the soggy pitch
by putting in a fair few slide tackles) to keep Ducklington out. A long
range shot from Ducklington was saved by Jenna but bobbled in front to put
the frighteners up the watching Carterton supporters. The ball was gathered
up by Jenna and cleared up field. Amy Black made her debut for Carterton on
12 mins. The deadlock was broken on 14mins. Anise barging her way up the
middle and slotting past the keeper to claim her 6th goal of the season. The
whole team ran to her to celebrate. Jenna pulled off yet another fine save
to deny Ducklington a goal. A "Gigi" and Amy run on the left saw then head
straight for goal. The effort sadly cleared away. A Ducklington throw in,
into the "Reds" penalty area was cleared by Courtney before a striker had
time to pounce on it.
HALF TIME: Ducklington 0 v Carterton FC 1.
Anise almost claimed her 7th goal of the season. Her shot hit the post,
rolled across goal and out for a goal kick. On 27mins saw a "heart in
throat" moment when a scramble on the Carterton goal line saw it take ages
to clear. Jenna eventually getting her hands on it through the melee' of
flying boots. Ducklington hoping for a long range shot at goal, had the
effort blocked by Courtney Curle. It was almost 0-2 on 34 mins. Hollie with
a barging run from inside her own half saw her 1 on 1 with the keeper. Her
effort hitting the post. Ducklington had a 3 on 2 with Cartertons defence.
Their long range effort hitting the side netting. Hollie again on 37mins
from a thru ball from "Gigi" saw her shot saved after yet another power run.
Ducklington had four corners in the last minute of the game. Carterton
kicking the ball out each time to run the clock down. In the last seconds
came heartbreak. A corner for Ducklington found an unmarked striker who
slotted past Jenna to share points and deny Carterton their first away win.
FULL TIME: Ducklington 1 v Carterton FC 1.
A share of the points was seen as unfair by both sets of coaches as
Carterton clearly played the better football. The girls stayed in their
positions, communicated, encouraged each other and played the best game of
football seen all season. The tackles were excellent, the link up play
improved and the girls are playing as a team. Benson at home on the 3rd
November. We can't wait. PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to the whole team as it
was impossible to pick an individual performance as all the girls played
their hearts out. |
|
6.10.07 |
Carterton FC 2 v Chinnor B 0
Having lost their last 3 games by 1 or 2 goals. Carterton were
told that this was the game to turn it around. Anise Da Silva Martins was
Captain of the day. Partnering her up front was Hollie Merriman and Georgina
Graham. Ellis Warner in the holding role midfield with Courtney Curle and
Rebecca Burns taking up the left and right back roles respectively. Jenna
Steptoe in goal. Chinnor kicked off and looked shaky from the start. Anise
and Georgina taking the ball away and attacking the Chinnor goal. Hollie
missed a brilliant chance to open the scoring. With only the keeper to beat,
she kicked straight at her. The breakthrough came dead on 10 mins. Anise
jinked round the defence and left footed past the keeper. Carterton
constantly looked the better team and had many chances on goal. Sadly they
didnt convert them. Jenna was looking bored in goal and didnt have a touch
on the ball until 18 mins. A thru ball not followed and easily picked up by
the Carterton #13. Courtney, Ellis and Rebecca keeping Chinnor out.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 1 v Chinnor 'B' 0.
Carterton kicked off the 2nd half and almost scored within the first 20
seconds. Anise's effort pulling wide. Carterton continued to dominate and
looked far the better team and should have easily been 4 or 5 nil up by now.
Chinnor managed to get into Carterton's penalty box, but were kept out by
Courtney and Ellis. A corner to Carterton saw the best kick of the match.
Anise took the corner and put so much bend on it, that it ended up in
Chinnors net for Anise to claim her 5th goal of the season. By now Chinnor
looked tired and disheartened. Carterton just kept attacking but a lack of
communication up front cost a few chances. With only 1 minute to go,
Carterton could have made it three. A lovely pass from Anise to Georgina,
who was free in the box, saw her miss the effort and out for a Chinnor
throw. The other end of the pitch wanting a bit of action as the ball
remained in Chinnor's half til the final whistle. Jenna left without a
single save to make.
FULL TIME: Carterton 2 - 0 Chinnor 'B'.
Their first league win, their first points. A great day for the girls who
were more than capable of tearing Chinnor to pieces. A few things to work on
in training for the girls who should have won the game by a much bigger
scoreline. Iron out these faults and we have a great team on our hands. A
very hard decision for girl of the match as 2 or 3 stood out greatly. But
PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to ELLIS WARNER for the second time this season.
Ellis with a great display of football that was second to none. |
|
29.9.07 |
Cholsey Bluebirds 4 v
Carterton FC 2
Both
teams started with 0 wins, 0 draws, 2 losses, GF 2, GA 4, Points 0. An equal
game on paper as both teams lost their last two games by only 1 goal. Jenna
Steptoe in goal, Captain Courtney Curle and Rebecca Burns at left and right
respectively. Hollie Merriman in the holding midfield role. Ellis Warner,
Georgina Graham and Anise Da Silva Martins making up the forwards. The worst
start possible for Carterton as they went 1-0 down after only 54 seconds.
Cholsey would have doubled their lead on 3 mins if not for a great save from
Jenna. A shot from a corner was cleared off the line by Courtney Curle
denying Cholsey a further lead. Anise looking back to her best put pressure
on Cholsey's goal with several shots. Sadly the efforts hit the side netting
or pulled 'just' wide. Cholsey made it 2-0 on 15 mins after their striker
was given far too much room and took advantage of the situation. Things got
worse for Carterton when a shot across goal was deflected in off Rebecca
Burns to make it 3-0 to Cholsey at half time.
HALF TIME: Cholsey Bluebirds 3 v Carterton FC 0.
Just as Cholsey scored within the first minute in the first half. Carterton
did so in the second. Just 49 seconds on the clock saw Anise scoring from
close range after a battle with the ball from Hollie who passed to Georgina
who layed the ball off for Anise to add the finishing touch. Carterton
almost doubled their score a minute later when a pass from Anise to Georgina
saw her effort clip the top of the crossbar. A 2 on 2 from Cholsey and a
well struck effort was parried away by Jenna but was followed up to give
Cholsey a 4-1 lead. Cholsey battled on to increase their lead. Courtney,
Ellis and Rebecca keeping them out. A lovely thru-ball from
Georgina left Anise with only the keeper to beat. Which she did coolly to bag
her 3rd goal of the season. Both teams carried on with some superb football,
but all looking tired and looking more frustated as they battled on, but
could not break through each others defence.
FULL TIME: Cholsey Bluebirds 4 v Carterton FC 2.
A few lapses in concentration and a few small errors was the deciding
factor. A bit more work is required to iron out those little problems that
are holding the girls back from that first win. A confidence booster is
needed. At home to Chinnor 'B' next week gives the girls the opportunity.
PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to ANISE DA SILVA MARTINS who from first whistle to
last showed an excellent attitude, a never give up attitude and a thirst for
goals. |
|
22.9.07 |
Carterton FC 2 v
Chinnor A 3
Carterton started with a disadvantage of only having 6 players for the visit
of Chinnor ’A’. 6-a-side it was.
Jenna Steptoe in goal with Captain of the day Hollie Merriman started in
defence alongside Courtney Curle with Anise Da Silva Martins, Georgina
Graham and Ellis Warner in attack. Both teams started off quite equally with
Carterton going straight for Chinnors goal. Some early opportunities being
squandered. A handball by Chinnor in their penalty area gave Carterton an
early chance to take the lead. Anise’s shot and rebound kick both saved by
the Chinnor keeper. Chinnor took the lead on 8 mins with some good link up
play. Anise pulled the scores level when she barged through the Chinnor
defence and powered her shot into the bottom corner. Up until half time both
teams displayed good attacking football, but both squandered all their
chances to increase their leads.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC 1 v Chinnor ‘A’ 1.
.The second half started as the 1st ended. Both teams attacking each others
goal, but not taking their chances to increase the score line. Chinnor did
increase the lead on 29 mins when a left footed shot squeezed between Jenna
and the goal post. Three minutes later produced the biggest talking point of
the game. A shot from Chinnor rolled off Jenna’s hands and left the question
“Did it cross the line?”. The doubt was there and the goal could not be
given. Hollie Merriman equalised on 33 mins with a barging run through the
middle. Although Carterton’s celebrations were short lived as Chinnor scored
again a minute later. Both teams until the final whistle battled it out
thoroughly. Chinnor and Carterton both trying to score again. Both teams
unable to produce another goal.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC 2 v Chinnor ‘A’ 3.
A game which Carterton should have won if they had taken their chances. A
good game overall with Carterton displaying the attacking play that they
lacked last season. Carterton play Cholsey Bluebirds away next weekend. With
both teams without a win in their first two matches. It should be a very
entertaining game.
PLAYER OF THE MATCH went to ELLIS WARNER who displayed a great never give up
attitude. |
|
15.9.07 |
Carterton FC 0 v Kidlington
1
The
Carterton girls loved the fact that they were kicking off the start of the
season against the League Champions of last season. The girls thought of
this same fixture last season when Kidlington came to town and went home 9-0
winn, e,, rs. The girls were determined that history would not repeat
itself. Jenna Steptoe took up her now favourite role as Goalkeeper and in
front of her were regular right and left back Rebecca Burns and Captain of
the day Courtney Curle. Central defence was covered by Hollie Merriman and
in attack was Anise Da Silva Martins as striker with Georgina Graham and
Ellis Warner on the right and left wings respectively.
Carterton kicked off and immediately went straight towards goal with Anise
and Georgina creating some great link up play. The game was very even with
nearly all the ball being kept in the midfield and each side only having the
occasional breakthrough that both teams defence were able to keep out.
Kidlington opened the scoring on 11 mins when a tricky thru-ball landed at
the feet of the K’ton #10 who coolly slotted home with a left footed shot.
Carterton aimed to reply but a low shot from Georgina just fell wide.
Kidlington tried hard to double the score. But some great play from Hollie
in the centre saw her keep all efforts away from goal.
HALF TIME: Carterton 0-1 Kidlington
A muscle strain to Anise saw her take over from Rebecca in defence. The
second half saw Carterton pushing like mad to even the score up. Hollie
getting the ball up to the midfield for Georgina, Ellis and Rebecca to try
and make the breakthrough for Carterton. Kidlington tried like mad to break
the Carterton defence down, but Anise, Courtney and Hollie were having none
of it and displayed some excellent defending. A moment of confusion in
midfield saw Hollie pick up a booking for deliberate handball. The resulting
free kick was splendidly caught by Jenna who has really found her feet
between the sticks. The game carried on evenly. Both sides refusing to give
up. The last two mins saw Georgina, Hollie, Ellis and Rebecca camped in the
Kidlington half and trying their best to even the scores up. A strike from
Hollie JUST pulling wide.
FULL TIME: Carterton 0-1 Kidlington
What a message to send to the other teams. Carterton mean business this
season and wont by this performance be propping up the table. Next week sees
the visit of Chinnor ‘A’. The girls are aiming for the 3 points. Player of
the Match went to Hollie Merriman for her none stop defending and support
play. WELL DONE GIRLS. |
| Fixture dates |
Home v Away
Reports |
 |
|
26.4.08 |
Cholsey Bluebirds 0 v Carterton FC Cougars 1
Apologies for the delay in publishing this report from the sidelines at
Cholsey on Saturday. Due to dreadful traffic with the closure of the A34,
unfortunately the Cougars were late getting themselves assembled for this,
their last league match of the season. Whilst no progress could be made on
their 4th place league position this was a match for pride; to end the
season in style.
The game finally kicked-off at 10:46 with Cougars taking early control.
Witney Wright, Ria Mosson, Megan Glyn and April Millin were all involved in
a relentless onslaught with three strikes at goal. Witney finished off the
third attempt with a confident kick to the back of Cholsey’s net,
establishing an early lead. Cholsey got things re-started, but Cougars were
soon back in charge with an excellent cross from Megan and another strike
from Ria, just a little off target. It was a frantic first five minutes for
the Cougars and another combination from Megan, Witney and Ria saw an
on-target shot taking the full stretch of Cholsey’s goalie to get a finger
to it, pushing the ball on to the goalpost. Cholsey then got their first
period of real possession and it was only great defending from Emma
Goodchild that stopped an equaliser. As we approached the end of the first
quarter they had their first real kick at goal. Good defending again by Emma
and joined by Meagan Hill and Katie Light’s confident goal-keeping kept them
at bay. With ten-minutes left to play in the first half Cougars got back in
control, a lovely build up resulted in a Ronaldo-esque touch by April almost
tricking the Cholsey goal-keeper, but not quite. Cougars sadly conceded a
free-kick to Cholsey, just outside their box. The Cholsey striker put a
confident boot to it only to be matched by an equally confident save by
Katie. The last chance of the half went to Cougars with some great battling
by Megan in mid-field, creating another chance for Witney and for the second
time it hit Cholsey’s goalpost.
So ended the half, Cholsey 0 v Carterton FC Cougars 1.
The start of the second half was almost like a reversal of roles. Cholsey
came out battling and took control. Cougars put an end to this within a few
minutes. Katy Brooks had come on to replace Ria for the second half and
received some great passes from Megan and April. Two strikes, on-target,
were unrewarded due to some good goal-keeping from Cholsey. Apart from that
early skirmish, there was nothing like the frantic activity of the first
half. There were many turf-wars in mid-field, but precious few created real
chances for either team. Meagan put in a great swoop to collect the ball
from Cholsey before it became a threat and stopped any chance of Cholsey
coming back. The second half ended without score leaving Cougars with a
justified win.
Full-time score Cholsey Bluebirds 0 v Carterton FC Cougars 1
Toby gave full credit to the team for their effort throughout the season and
a good performance today. Witney Wright was awarded the Girl of the Game for
great battling and that all-important winning goal. |
|
5.4.08 |
Carterton FC Cougars 1 v Kidlington
Tigers 1
A beautiful sunny morning, even with a keen, cold wind
saw a 10:00 start at Cougar’s home “The Rec”. Toby was back in fine voice to
give coaching and encouragement to the girls in a match of two of the top
four teams in the league. As the penultimate league match of this season,
this was critically important for final positions. It was a lively game
right from the start and Cougars seized control well; excellent cross-field
pass from April Millin passing to Witney Wright for a long-shot, which only
just off target, set the tone for the game. Cougars’ next attack, with just
two minutes played, resulted in corner. Ria Mosson kicked an excellent ball,
an almost perfect corner, but no-one could quite get a touch to finish it
off. Witney was next to have another go. Playing a fantastic game in
mid-field Witney was creating chances throughout and another long-shot,
taken from only just inside Kidlington’s half, took some good defending to
stop. Kidlington’s first real attempt at gaining control was brought to an
abrupt halt by Witney, battling hard in mid-field to win it back for the
Cougars, getting a pass to Ria, for another strike, just a little wide of
target. It seemed only a matter of time before Cougars would take the lead.
However, Kidlington showed their mettle at times and the twelfth minute
Katie Light had to make a great save to stop them scoring. Five minutes
later they were back again; Emma Goodchild and Meagan Hill were defending
well to keep them at bay. Emma’s tracking back certainly stopped a chance
for Kidlington as it took away their attacking option. With just five
minutes left in the half, Cougars got back in the driving seat getting a
ball up to Ria who put in a super kick, bang on target, but Kidlington’s
goalie was there to make a good save. On the rebound Megan Glyn was there to
have another go, putting it just over the crossbar. The last few minutes of
the half were seen out with great play, but no score ended the half as it
started, nil-nil.
Cougars started the second half a little quieter than they played in the
first, taking a few minutes to really get back in to it. April had the first
go at an attack, but Kidlington returned with a huge break and Cougars were
all but without defence. It took some great running back from Emma, April
and Meagan to prevent Kidlington benefiting from it. Eight minutes in to the
second half, the breakthrough we’d all been waiting for finally happened. A
great passage of play by Ria and Megan got the ball to Witney for a
confident strike and the first goal. One, nil to Cougars and they didn’t
rest on their Laurels, Witney was straight back in their half for another
go, and it is hard to see how the ball stayed out of the net. Kidlington
came back with some hard, if a little scrappy, play forcing a corner. The
corner was taken and Kidlington’s striker made no mistake in clinically
finishing it, levelling the score to one-all. A foul against Megan gave
Cougars a free-kick and a good chance of retaking the lead. Despite a well
taken kick, in to the box, again the Cougars couldn’t quite get on the end
of it. With just five minutes left it took first-class defending from Emma
to stop Kidlington. Katy Brooks came on to replace Ria for the last few
minutes and got straight down to business, winning the ball in mid-field,
running it straight through the middle and made a cracking pass to Witney.
Witney then created a great chance, made a good pass to Megan, by which time
Katy was right up front ready for the cross, but taken on the outside of her
boot couldn’t get enough on it to score. The last chance of the match was
also Cougar’s, this time Megan made a long-shot, but no score left the game
a draw one-all.
In closing Toby congratulated the girls for one of their best games of the
season and pointed out that it was only a very good goal that prevented them
from winning. Whilst it was a great team effort Witney was awarded Girl of
the Game for excellent play and commitment throughout the game. Katy was
also praised for the best pass of the game. Great game, very entertaining,
should have been a win for the Cougars. |
|
15.3.08 |
Marston Saints Angels 2
v Carterton FC Cougars 0
With three games in hand versus the leaders and just eight-points from the
top, Marston Saints could be favourites for winning the league division B.
Plus, with one game in hand and the same eight-points behind the leaders,
Cougars also need every possible point to stay in the running. This promised
to be a fantastic match from two high-quality teams!
Cougars kicked-off at spot-on the 09:30 planned time and put on a bit of
early pressure. Katy Brooks passing to April Millin and up-field to Ria
Mosson looked promising but unfortunately, it came to nothing, mainly
because of a tight defence from Marston. After a few more minutes Marston
were also looking good attacking; their aggression and pace could not be
denied. However, nor could the quality of defence be denied from Emma
Goodchild and Meagan Hill which kept Marston at bay for much of the game.
Even when Marston had a clear shot at goal in the ninth-minute, the safe
hands of Katie Light saved it. Twenty-minutes passed before there was a real
breakthrough, all the pressure was from Marston and with absolute accuracy
they stuck one in the top-right of Cougars’ goal. One-nil to Marston at
half-time.
Second half started much like the first half ended; Cougars were quiet and
looked tired. A few minutes of this let Marston get through for a few shots
at goal. Their first strike just tipped over the crossbar, then a minute
later another onslaught – the first shot blocked by Katie, but it came
straight back out for another go which hit the woodwork before finally being
gathered up. Heather Lowe came on to replace Katy and played in a truly
spirited fashion, winning many battles in mid-field. In the last ten-minutes
of the game Cougars showed at least a little of their normal form. A great
cross from Ria, but no one was in the box to exploit it, and another cross
just a little too long for Megan Glyn to get on the end of it. With
five-minutes left to play, Marston regained control and scored their second
goal of the match.
Final score Marston Saints Angels 2 v Carterton FC Cougars 0. Despite a
lacklustre team performance, credit should always be given where it is due.
Parents praised Meagan for a wonderful performance in defence; Katie for
some excellent goal keeping and Heather for coming on as sub and getting
straight into the match. After a discussion ‘Girl of the Game’ was awarded
to Heather for a sparkling display in mid-field and for showing real
commitment on the ball.
|
|
8.3.08 |
Carterton FC Cougars 0
v St Edmunds 1
Only two weeks ago St. Edmunds beat the Cougars six goals to nil so it was a
tense atmosphere as St. Edmunds came for the return leg at Cougars’ home
ground, “The Rec”.
Cougars kicked off at 09:30, sharp and the match was very even, both teams
having to battle hard for possession. Megan Glyn and Ria Mosson put together
some good passes, creating a few chances and when St.Edmunds replied, Emma
Goodchild and Witney Wright (c) were fantastic in defence. Katie Light was
also looking confident in goal, even when tested early by St. Edmunds’
number-ten. April Millin managed to break through the mid-field half way
through the first half, but tight marking stopped the attack making further
progress. Emma, moving forward through mid-field put in a long pass all the
way to Ria. A firm strike was spot on target and it took the full stretch
and a great save from St. Edmunds goalie to stop Cougars getting ahead.
Cougars continued to play good football; always covering for each other,
creating space and ensuring support was always available. However, it was
St. Edmunds that put in the last attack of the half and only brave
goal-keeping by Katie frustrated their attack by scooping it up with both
hands, leaving the half-time score nil, nil.
St. Edmunds started the second half, but Cougars took possession quickly
after the restart. Megan and Meagan Hill played well, forcing a corner which
was well taken by Ria, but sadly unrewarded. Five-minutes in to the second
half Katy Brooks came on to replace Witney Wright who had played well up to
this point. The second half continued where the first half had ended;
closely matched teams battling hard. Both teams had to juggle positions to
gain control, Meagan and Megan constantly making great runs back to help the
defence and returning to mid and forward positions as soon as chances became
available. One team had to get a breakthrough and finally St. Edmunds
number-ten managed just that, taking advantage of an almost clear run to
make it one-on-one with Cougars’ goalie, Katie. An excellent strike finished
the job and put St. Edmunds one goal ahead with fifteen minutes left on the
clock. Close play returned, Heather Lowe came on to replace Katy. Cougars
produced more fine play giving a chance to April who got a good shot, on
target, but within reach of the goalie. The game ended Cougars 0 : 1 St.
Edmunds. A close game and a great improvement for the Cougars since the last
time they met St. Edmunds.
In summarising Fiona congratulated the team on a game well played. Girl of
the Game was yet again a tough decision for the parents; two outstanding
performances were cited; Meagan and Megan both played their hearts out, but
there could only be one winner and Megan just tipped the balance and was
awarded the coveted trophy.
|
|
1.3.08 |
Summertown Stars 0 v
Carterton FC Cougars 5
Under a bright, sunny sky in fairly blustery winds Cougars kicked-off at
11:30 and instantly settled in to their first attack. Good mid-field work
from Katy Brooks and April Millin got the ball forward to Ria Mosson, then
back to April for the first goal of the game, scored from a very fine angle,
with just one-minute played. We only had to wait another few minutes before
Witney Wright gained the ball from the back, driving forward through
mid-field and finally out for a corner. Ria took a superb corner kick and it
was curled in by the wind to put Cougars two goals up. Summertown managed to
make their first break in the sixth-minute, but it was well defended by Emma
Goodchild. The wind was with Cougars so it was worth a try for long-shots.
Ria did just that in the ninth-minute, but it was straight to Summertown’s
goalie. Witney continued to play out of her skin in this game with good
defence, great clearances and some highly-effective blocking keeping
Summertown at bay. Meagan Hill regained control for Cougars and had a
storming run from halfway, right in to Summertown’s half, but her own kick
was a little to long leaving just too fine an angle to go for goal, but it
continued Cougars’ high pressure. Just before half-time Ria took another
excellent corner, April just got her studs on it, but not enough to steer
the ball in, so the first half ended Summertown Stars 0 v Carterton FC
Cougars 2.
The Stars got the second-half underway, but quickly gave possession to the
Cougars and Ria made a clinical finish to put Cougars three goals ahead.
Meagan made a great interception and ran the ball from half way right to
Summertown’s box, the final strike was just a little off target. However,
another fine build up got another ball to the feet of April for the fourth
goal, just six-minutes in to the second half. Heather Lowe came on to
replace Katy for the balance of the match and played well on the right. With
just ten-minutes left on the clock, Ria got her hat-trick and it was only a
very good save from Summertown’s goalie that prevented Cougars extending
their lead even further. Final Score: Summertown Stars 0 v Carterton FC
Cougars 5. I make no apologies for not mentioning Katie Light’s goal-keeping
until now. It is simply testament to Cougars’ control of the game that left
Katie with little to do … what she did, she did well, but Summertown were no
test for her skills.
In announcing “Girl of the Game”, Fiona was left to explain a very difficult
decision for her and the parents that contributed to making the decision.
Ria played excellently and it was great to see her back on top-form with a
hat-trick to boot, but Witney’s constant battling throughout won her the
accolade for this match.
|
|
16.2.08 |
St.Edmunds 6 v
Carterton FC Cougars 0.
A
true “battle of the titans” was in prospect as two of the top-three teams in
the league met at St. Edmunds’ home ground in Abingdon. St. Edmunds
kicked-off at a minute after eleven and put immediate pressure on the
Cougars, scoring a goal within the first minute of the game. Unfortunately,
it was a goal more gifted by a confused defence than any real shooting
talent. Cougars didn’t let it get to them and took the game straight back to
St. Edmunds’ end. Ria Mosson kicked the first of many excellent corners,
giving real goal scoring chances. Despite this Cougars failed to convert any
of them, partially down to a tight defence from St. Edmunds. Cougars first
real shot at goal came in the sixth-minute; good midfield work from Megan
Glyn, passed to Ria for the shot, just a little off target. Cougars played
great football, Meagan Hill and Emma Goodchild were strong in defence, but
also managed to get the ball up-field with strong and accurate passing.
Witney Wright put in an excellent run and a cracking cross, but for whatever
reason Cougars just couldn’t get a touch to it to score. It took up to the
ninth-minute for St. Edmunds to regain any control and make an attack. This
break saw a powerful shot at Cougars’ goal; Katie Light made a great save to
keep it out. It was a very physical game with strong challenges and the odd
foul, one of which rewarded a free-kick to Cougars, about twenty-yards from
goal; April Millin had to work hard to keep the ball in as Ria’s kick was
little wayward. Five minutes before half-time Katy Brooks came on to replace
Witney and she quickly got to work on winning ball in the mid-field. St.
Edmunds had another brief spell in control with two goal-scoring chances.
The first was a bit wide, the second closer; hitting the outside
side-netting. Before the half-time whistle, it was Cougars that put in a
great attack. An incredible pass up-field by Megan, but again Cougars failed
to capitalise on the chance created, so the score was unchanged at the
half-time break.
Half-time:- St.Edmunds 1 v Carterton FC Cougars 0
Cougars got the second half underway and again controlled the game for the
first five-minutes; more great work from Meagan and April who were
constantly switching between defence and mid-field with some great running
football. St. Edmunds created some pressure after this, though, and it took
another good save from Katie to prevent them extending their lead. Heather
Lowe was brought on to replace Emma and she continued the good work of the
backs in this game, but it wasn’t enough to stop St. Edmunds squeezing
another one in the thirty-second-minute; two-nil to the home team. Cougars
bounced back with a great run from Meagan, passing to Ria for a the shot. It
was a great save by St. Edmunds to keep it out. On the counter, St. Edmunds
made no mistake in clocking up their third goal, this was the beginning of a
flurry of goals; all of a sudden St. Edmunds were looking unassailable with
a six-nil lead. Witney, who had earlier come back on replacing Katy, made an
excellent strike at goal; it rattled the woodwork, but failed to touch the
net, which in some ways summed up the game … Cougars created loads of
chances, played excellent football but just couldn’t finish the job when it
counted. The score-line was flattering to St. Edmunds performance, but you
can’t take away the fact that they made their chances pay.
Full-time:- St.Edmunds 6 v Carterton FC Cougars 0.
Chris, who was coaching, in Toby’s absence, congratulated the girls on some
great football, accurate passing and good teamwork and said there was no way
St. Edmunds were six-nil better than the Cougars. It could have been so much
different a result if we had just got that last touch to some of the great
crosses. Chris awarded “Girl of the Game” to Meagan for consistent great
work.
|
|
9.2.08 |
Carterton FC Cougars 5
v Kennington 0
It
was the third home game on the trot for the Cougars. Winning the previous
two put them at the top of the league, therefore there was an air of
confidence in the Carterton Squad as Kennington visited “The Rec”. It was a
beautiful sunny morning, Cougars kicked off at 10:30 and took the match
straight in to Kennington’s half. A big attack with Ria Mosson, Witney
Wright and April Millin all having strikes at goal, but it came to nothing.
It was all going Cougars’ way, April putting in super cross in the fourth
minute, to the feet of Ria who struck it on target. The ball wiggled between
Kennington’s posts but it didn’t clear the line and no goal was given. It
took up to the seventh minute for Kennington to launch a serious attack only
to be stopped by good defending by Emma Goodchild and great goal-keeping by
Katie Light. Immediately, Cougars were back in control, Ria, Witney and
April had another couple of shots at goal, but still a score eludd them
until the tenth-minute … Witney just got a touch to it and it trickled over
the line to put Cougars up 1 – 0. Just a minute later Meagan Hill put a
fantastic long pass up to Ria who stuck it in for Cougars’ second goal. Some
great play continued with Megan Glyn and Katy Brooks controlling the
mid-field, tracking back to defend when required and putting in some long
runs. This mid-field work paid off when the ball was passed up to April for
a strong strike and Cougars’ third goal. Cougars were relentless and it
wasn’t long to wait before the Ria had another shot at goal in the
twentieth-minute. A clinical finish made it 4 – 0!
Half-time score: Carterton FC Cougars 4 v Kennington 0
Kennington got the second half underway, but Cougars soon took control and
two minutes in Ria had another strike meeting the woodwork of Kennington’s
goal. Credit must be given to Kennington’s number 9 who played with real
spirit and often broke through Cougars defence … It was only brave
goal-keeping from Katie and a stern defence from Heather Lowe that prevented
them from scoring. Only three-minutes in Cougars were on the attack again;
Katy had a good strike but the ball sailed over the cross-bar. The game
returned to the mid-field and good battling from both sides stopped any
major offensives for a few minutes. Cougars broke through in the end giving
April another chance, but it was just off target, hitting the side netting.
With just ten minutes left it was Megan that won the ball, put in a great
run and a lovely strike to make it 5 – 0. Kennington tried to come back in
the last five minutes only to be met by Katie, coming a long way for a great
save.
Full-time score: Carterton FC Cougars 5 v Kennington 0
Toby congratulated the team on a game well played and recognised that there
was lots of great football played by every member of the team. It was a
difficult decision, but finally Katy was awarded “Girl of the Game” for her
all round performance – passing, tracking back, her work rate in defence and
overall increased confidence.
|
|
2.2.08 |
Carterton FC Cougars 1
v Ducklington 0.
The pitch at “The Rec” was just about playable under a thin layer of frost.
Not perfect conditions, but both teams were keen to get out there and play
some football.
Carterton Cougars kicked off just a minute after 09:30. It was a lively
start with the game moving from end-to-end and good play from both teams.
Emma Goodchild and Meagan Hill defended well to prevent Ducklington breaking
through. After about seven minutes Cougars gained control with an accurate
pass from Katy Brooks to a strike at goal from Ria Mosson with the ball
going just a little wide to the left of Ducklington’s goal. Cougars created
a few more chances and Duckilington’s goalie and defence had to work hard to
stop Cougars getting an early lead. Approaching the sixteenth minute,
Ducklington did manage a attack and had a powerful kick which was also a
little wide of target. Cougar’s took it back to their opponents and from a
very fine angle April Millin had a shot at goal, only narrowly missing
target. Witney Wright replaced Katy on the left and got straight down to
business, battling hard in mid-field. It took right up to the twentieth
minute for the first score. Megan Glyn created good possession and fed a
great pass to April, who took it right up to Ducklington’s box and finished
with a powerful strike straight to the back of the net for a fabulous goal
and a 1 – 0 lead for Cougars. Before the first half was over, Megan and
Witney also had strikes at goal with only excellent goal-keeping preventing
an extended lead.
Half time score: Carterton FC Cougars 1 v Ducklington 0.
The second half started a bit like the first with fairly tight play keeping
things evenly matched. It took about five minutes to get a breakthrough for
Ria; the ball wiggled over the goal line, but was declared no-goal due to an
earlier infringement giving Ducklington a free kick. Ducklington used it
well, but their attack came to nothing through brave goal-keeping from Katie
Light. Cougars soon came back, upped the pressure, and kept the game in
Ducklington’s half. With fifteen minutes to go Katy came back on to replace
Witney and created chances with some good passing. Despite this high
pressure Ducklington got through and almost fluked a goal. Cougars had to
work hard to get their defence back in shape and Emma finally cleared it.
With just five minutes left on the clock Cougars took back control and had
several attempts, but no more goals were scored.
Full time score: Carterton FC Cougars 1 v Ducklington 0.
Fiona congratulated Katy on her improved play and passing over the last few
games. The coveted “Girl of the Game” was awarded to April for her excellent
play throughout the game … Not to mention a stonking goal! |
|
26.1.08 |
Carterton FC Cougars 5
v Charlbury 0
Carterton Cougars welcomed Charlbury to “The Rec” on a bright, sunny
morning. Kicking off at 09:32, Cougars started convincingly with an early
attack from Katy Brooks and Ria Mosson. Both had good strikes, but the
Charlbury goalie kept them out of the net. A slight defensive error allowed
Charlbury through in the fifth minute, but the finish was off-target.
Cougars returned to play great football with excellent passing and many
attacks. However, it took right up to thirteen minutes to get a goal … A
cracking strike from Megan Glyn was simply unstoppable and put Cougars in
front. The last five-minutes of the first half were blistering. Cougars
controlled the game well and created many chances, Megan had another great
strike, but a good save kept it out. Then April Millin made a fantastic
cross, giving Megan another shot and, this time, there was no mistake; a
clinical finish put Cougars 2 – 0 in front. In the closing minute April
created another chance, this time for herself and with a huge kick from the
edge of Charlbury’s box she stuck it in the top right corner. Charlbury also
had to make a save in injury time to leave the half-time score at: Carterton
FC Cougars 3 v Charlbury 0.
Charlbury got the second half underway and were straight on the offensive,
only a good save from Katie Light prevented the Cougars conceding a goal.
Some great mid-field work by Meagan Hill brought the game back to the
Cougars and just five minutes in to the second half the Cougars re-stamped
their authority on the game with another goal from Megan, giving her a
hat-trick and Cougars a four-goal lead! Only one change was made to the team
when Heather Lowe replaced Katy on the left with ten-minutes on the clock.
Some good defending from Emma Goodchild and some battling from Heather kept
Charlbury at bay and the Cougars continued to control the game. With just a
few minutes left Meagan gets a good ball passed in to the box and sticks
another one in for Cougars.
FINAL SCORE: CARTERTON FC COUGARS 5 v CHARLBURY 0
Toby commented on a first-class performance from the team and complimented
the excellent passing that created chances and goals. Fiona and Toby decided
on Megan being awarded “Girl of the Game”. Megan was also presented with the
match-ball for her hat-trick. |
|
19.1.08 |
Tower Hill Vixens B 1 v
Carterton FC Cougars 3
Carterton Cougars were away to Tower Hill for this week’s fixture. Cougars
kicked off at 10:30, playing against the wind, in otherwise good conditions.
It was a bit of a scrappy start from both sides for the first eight or nine
minutes, but the tenth minute saw a cracking shot from the boot of Meagan
Hill striking the cross-bar of Tower Hill’s goal. This near-miss seemed to
get the Cougars back on form and they began to move the ball around very
well. A great pass from Katy Brooks in the fourteenth minute went to the
feet of Megan Glyn for a shot, which went just a few yards wide of target.
Shortly after, April Millin had a shot at goal, on target, but a good save
from Tower Hill’s goalie kept it out of the net. Cougars were playing some
good football, which was briefly disturbed by a counter from Tower Hill
resulting in a corner and the first goal of the match. It was undoubtedly a
fluke, but it put Tower Hill in the lead with nineteen minutes played. The
rest of the half was fairly quiet, some good defending from Emma Goodchil
and Meagan, and some confident saves from Katie Light kept the score Tower
Hill 1 v Carterton FC Cougars 0 as the whistle blew for half time.
Tower Hill got the second half under way and with it came some good midfield
play from both sides. Witney Wright replaced Katy in left-mid.
Unfortunately, the game fell back to the way it started; a bit tatty with
little play of great note. Ten minutes in though and Meagan brightened
things up with a long shot ending up just over the top of Tower Hill’s goal.
Then Witney had an attempt only just off target. Overall Cougars were
playing the better football which kept Tower Hill in their own half for most
of the second half. Two good kicks at goal came from April and Ria Mosson,
sadly unrewarded. However a concerted attack from the Cougars saw Ria, Megan
and April right on Tower Hill’s goal line. April had the last touch to score
the equaliser; one-all in the thirty-eighth minute. Tower Hill were forced
to make wholesale changes with three players substituted. Almost from
nowhere, Cougars created a great chance and Witney finished it off with a
text-book goal, putting Cougars one in front. A re-charged Cougars put in
one attack after another with fantastic passing and a couple of great
crosses. Heather Lowe replaced Emma in defence and Ria had a couple of shots
at goal. It was only a matter of time before Cougars could get another goal.
Sure enough, an amazing cross came to the feet of Ria right in the box and
Cougars got their third goal with just one minute left on the clock.
The final whistle blew: Tower Hill 1 v Carterton FC Cougars 3 – It’s good to
see Cougars back to their winning ways! Meagan was chosen by the parents to
receive the esteemed “Girl of the Game”. Toby commented that it wasn’t the
Cougars best performance, but it was an excellent result.
|
|
15.12.07 |
Kidlington Tigers 2 v
Carterton FC Cougars 1
Carterton Cougars travelled to Kidlington and kicked off at 10:30.
Kidlington gained early control, but the ball came back to the Cougars
through some great work by Meagan Hill playing on the right. She passed down
the line to Witney Wright, who put in an excellent cross, but Kidlington
defended it well. Both teams played very tight in mid-field and the pressure
was intense. Kidlington broke through in the eighth minute, but Meagan
showed huge commitment in defence stopping their attack. The game came back
to the Cougars with a lovely throw-in from Emma Goodchild, finding Megan
Glyn for a shot at goal. Unfortunately, the shot was just a little wide.
Cougars continued attacking with a huge pass from Witney for a long-shot by
Megan, sadly unrewarded. Kidlington countered fast and strong and their
finish was just too strong for Katie Light to save, giving Kidlington first
blood, one goal in front.
Kidlington got the second half underway and it was hard to pick who was the
better team, both were playing with full commitment and passion.
Four-minutes in, though, Cougars found a way through which gave Ria Mosson a
shot at Kidlington’s goal. A good strike, but just inches off target meant
it hit side-netting. Then Megan was in position for a goal, but again just
off target. Katy Brooks got back on form and was winning a lot of ball,
getting it up field and a flurry of shots from Ria and Megan, but all off
target. Quick thinking from Megan, saw a short corner taken, passed to Ria,
who cut an incredibly thin angle to score for Cougars; all even with
thirty-four minutes played. Through good play from both teams, chances for
getting goals were few and far between, but with just five minutes left on
the clock Kidlington scored their second goal. Heather Lowe, back after
injury, replaced Katy, for the remainder of the game.
Full-time score: Kidlington Tigers 2 v Carterton FC Cougars 1
It is quite saddening to report that a good game was marred by some poor
sportsmanship and weak refereeing. However, Toby congratulated the girls on
playing a great game. The parents had the difficult task of choosing a “Girl
of the Game”, all the team played very well, but Megan and Witney were
thought to be the outstanding players of the game. Toby was asked to make
the final decision and elected Megan, for her consistency.
|
|
8.12.07 |
Bloxham 1 v Carterton
FC Cougars 0
The rain was pouring,
the pitch was massive and we had only 7 girls to play our Cup match against
‘A league’ opposition, Bloxham. However, after an uplifting team talk by
coach Toby, the girls were raring to go.
The Cougars made a positive start and then, they went on to put in their
best performance this season. Unfortunately, they went 1 – 0 down quite
early in the match and they did not manage to pull it back, despite having
the majority of the possession and playing some wonderful football. It was
fantastic to see skills taught in training being used successfully and
confidently.
Ria Mosson, playing up front, battled hard throughout the match, getting the
tackles in and plugging away at the goal.
Katy Brooks, playing on the right, put in a personal best performance. She
worked hard, put in accurate short passes and focussed well.
Megan Glyn, playing in centre midfield, was strong on the ball and in
tackling. Her skilful turns left the opposition standing and she never gave
up.
April Millin, playing on the left, supported well in the first half and
really came into her own in the second, with attacking runs opening up the
Bloxham defence.
Emma Goodchild and Meagan Hill proved an excellent partnership in defence,
covering each other brilliantly. Emma, invariable beating her opponent to
the ball and making accurate passes out of the area.
Meagan, strong and determined, played her way out of tight situations,
making the most of the extra wide pitch.
Katie Light, in goal, played with confidence, making some great saves and
goal keeping decisions.
How could we pick a ‘Girl of the Game’? We didn’t! The girls decided that
they would like to choose and they chose Meagan because she never stopped
working.
Almost half way through the season .... and everything to play for!
|
|
1.12.07 |
Carterton FC Cougars 1
v Marston Saints Angels 3
A
beautiful sunny morning at the ‘Rec’ in Carterton welcomed Marston Saints
for this clash of the titans between the two teams that occupy the top two
places of their league.
Saints kicked off promptly at 10:00 and put in a very strong start with some
good play resulting in the first kick at goal which was just off target,
catching Cougars’ side net. Five minutes in Cougars settled and took control
of the game, Ria Mosson returning a shot to the Saints’ side netting,
followed a minute later by Megan Glyn with an on-target strike that took a
great save to keep it out. The Saints immediately came back with some good
passing mid-field, getting the ball to the front and a good finish put them
one goal ahead. Saints continued with heavy pressure and it was only
excellent defending from Emma Goodchild and Meagan Hill that prevented a
further score. Saints next strike came in the eleventh-minute, bang on
target, but finished in the safe hands of Katie Light with a great save from
Cougars’ goalie. Toby Goodchild, Cougar’s coach, made a change to mid-field
replacing Witney Wright with Katy Brooks. Katy got in to the game well
producing a good pass to Ria for another shot at goal … on target, but just
a bit weak, making it easy for Saints’ goalie to pick up. The first-half
came to an end with a flurry of exchanges, both teams showing great skill
and talent. Katie’s brave goal-keeping forced a Saints’ attack wide just
before the half-time whistle.
Half Time Score:Carterton FC Cougars 0 v Marston Saints Angels 1
Cougars got the second half underway, but were met with strong pressure from
the Saints. Meagan put in a super defensive header, to the feet of April
Millin who put in a great pass to Megan, but the shot was just to the right
of Saints goal. Another great team effort unrewarded. Saints were quickly on
the counter and took the game straight back to the other end, a strong
strike met the back of the Cougars’ net putting them two goals ahead in the
thirty-sixth minute. Witney, who had swapped back with Katy, put in an
amazing long shot, but it was gathered in by Saints’ goalie. Again, Saints
were strong on the counter attack and made no mistake with their strike.
Forty-two minutes played and it was all going the Saints’ way, now three
goals to nil. They continued strongly, but equally strong defending by Emma
and Meagan kept Cougars out of further trouble. Halfway through the second
half, Cougars battled hard and got a couple of breakthroughs. A fantastic
cross from April to Megan’s feet and in to the Saints goal, to make it 1 –
3. Unfortunately, Witney handled the ball in her own area, conceding a
penalty to Saints. Saints struck it well, but Katie was too good and made a
stunning save. The game ended as strongly as it started; it promised to be a
great match and it certainly was!
Full Time Score: Carterton FC Cougars 1 v Marston Saints Angels 3
Toby congratulated the girls on a great game and strong performance, “Every
girl gave a 100%”. The parents had the tough task of singling out one player
for Girl of the Game; the tough decision was finally awarded to Emma for her
wonderful work in defence throughout the match.
|
|
10.11.07 |
Carterton FC Cougars 2
v Summertown Stars 1
A cold and windy
morning welcomed Summertown Stars to Monahan Way. A prompt start at 10:30
saw the Stars kick off, playing with the strong North-Westerly wind, but it
was Cougars that got the early advantage and a lovely cross from Megan Glyn
got to the feet of April Millin just inside the Stars’ box. A good boot from
April got the first goal of the game. With just two minutes of the match
played it was one-nil. The Stars came back, but only to be met by a stern
defence from Rianna Ianniello who made a super clearance. Cougars were back
on the attack and forced a handball offence by Stars, giving Ria Mosson a
free kick. It was well struck, but equally well saved by the Stars’ goalie.
The to and fro continued and Stars put together another attack, but again
strong Cougars’ defending, this time by Emma Goodchild, stopped them in
their tracks. It was all the way to ten-minutes before Katie Light, Cougars’
goalie actually got a touch of the ball, with a brave save, coming right to
the edge of her box to stop an attack by the Stars. The following five
minutes all went Cougars’ way, with some excellent mid-field work by Meagan
Hill and Megan feeding some good passes to Ria, but the strikes were just
off target. In the last five minutes of the half the Stars spent a bit of
time in the Cougars’ half, but without putting together any serious
goal-scoring chances. When Cougars countered, Meagan had a great run down
the line, put in a cracking cross right in to the Stars’ box and Megan’s
feet to score Cougars’ second goal just before the half-time whistle.
HALF TIME: Carterton FC Cougars 2 v Summertown Stars 0
Cougars kicked-off the second half with a few changes; Katy Brooks replacing
April, Heather Lowe and Witney Wright replacing Emma and Rianna in defence.
What happened next defied belief, shot after shot from Cougars went
unrewarded, with Ria, Meagan and Katy all having a go. After that, with
thirty-one minutes gone, the Stars countered with a strong build up from
mid-field, broke through Cougars’ defence and their strike reached the back
of Cougars’ net to make it two-one. Cougars got straight back on the attack
and another incredible series of near-misses from Ria, then Ria again, then
Megan, Meagan, Megan again, Katy all putting enormous strain on the Stars’
defence but weak strikes meant the ball never actually got in the net.
That’s how it continued right up to final whistle. Not the prettiest game of
football ever played, but a win is a win and it’s enough for the Cougars to
stay at the top of their league.
FULL TIME: Carterton FC Cougars 2 v Summertown Stars 1
In summarizing, Toby Goodchild, congratulated his team on another win, but
did not award Girl-of-the-Game for this match as there were “no outstanding
performances”. Harsh, but fair!
|
|
3.11.07 |
Kennington 1 v
Carterton FC Cougars 5
On a beautiful, sunny
morning Kennington won the toss to kick off at 10:32, but it was Cougars
that made the stronger start with a cracking pass from April Millin which
was just a little too long for Ria Mosson to finish off, so it ended up in
Kennington’s goalie’s hands. But the next onslaught wasn’t far behind with
another pass, just a little too long, from Megan Glyn, just passed Meagan
Hill to go out for a goal kick. It took 4-minutes for Kennington to respond
to Cougar’s early pressure with a strong attack; only the excellent hands of
Katie Light prevented a goal. Cougar’s came straight back, battling well in
mid-field to build a good attempt for Megan to strike; a strong shot was
only kept out by a strong Kennington defence. Then Kennington were on the
counter, but well blocked by Witney Wright, who kicked it deep in to
Kennington’s half and a brilliant finish by April put Cougars one goal ahead
in the eighth minute! This was swiftly followed by another attack with Ria
just missing from a very tight angle. Cougar’s defence was strong again when
Kennington tried to get back in to the game, this time Emma Goodchild doing
a great job in stopping their offensive. There followed a period where
Cougars kept possession very well and camped out in Kennington’s half for
several minutes. When Kennington finally regained the ball, a long shot went
to Katie’s safe hands, who passed it with accuracy to Meagan, who got it to
Ria for a brilliant finish, putting Cougars two goals in front after
fourteen minutes. Barely had the game restarted before Cougars were up-field
again, but this time Ria was just a little off target, missing the goal by
no more than a foot. Kennington, again, tried to get in to this
Cougars-dominated game with a strong run from mid-field, but, again, Emma
showed her mettle with another superb block. So, it was Cougars that got
back in the driving seat and an excellent pass from Megan met the boot of
Ria for her to score her second goal, putting Cougars three ahead at
half-time.
HALF TIME SCORE: Kennington 0 v 3 Carterton FC Cougars
Cougars got the second half underway in the same style that they ended the
first. An immediate attack put April in an excellent position for a shot,
which was only just off target. Then Ria had another go, but the shot ended
in Kennington’s goalie’s hands. After a Kennington foul, Megan struck a
fantastic free kick putting Kennington’s goalie at full stretch to prevent
another goal for Cougars. Toby Goodchild made a change with Katy Brooks
replacing April and Cougars pressure continued; a near-perfect throw-in met
Meagan’s feet and a clinical finish put Cougars four goals ahead with
twenty-nine minutes played. Another period of sustained pressure from
Cougars kept the lead. Kennington then conceded another free kick, also well
struck by Megan but without reward. As the Cougar’s piled on the pressure,
Kennington’s defence became nervous and a few errors ended with them giving
away an own goal, making Kennington nil, Cougars five with just nine-minutes
left on the clock. Heather Lowe was Cougar’s second substitution, replacing
Witney and she showed real spirit in defending Kennington’s attempts to
build some return pressure. However, Kennington put together some good
passes to finally get in front of Cougar’s goal; their first shot was well
saved by Katie, but it went straight back to their striker who made no
mistake in scoring a goal giving Kennington their first score of the game.
An excellent mid-field battle ensued with some brilliant passing between
Katy and Megan feeding a good ball to Ria, who only missed the shot by a few
inches to the right of the goal. Heather and Emma continued to defend well
as Kennington made a last-ditch effort to reduce the goal difference, but to
no avail, the game ended with another Cougar’s victory … Five games, five
wins keeping their place at the top of the table.
FULL TIME SCORE: Kennington 1 v 5 Carterton FC Cougars
Toby Goodchild gave special mention to two players in his post-match
commentary: Megan for her mid-field battling throughout the game and Ria for
showing real confidence in shooting for goal. It was a close-call but Toby
awarded Girl-of-the-Game to Ria Mosson. |
|
20.10.07 |
Carterton FC Cougars 5
v Tower Hill B 2
A
bright, crisp morning welcomed Cougars and Tower Hill to Monahan Way with
Cougars sporting their new team jackets, looking very smart. Tower Hill got
things underway with a kick-off at 10:06, but it was Cougars who got
straight on to the offensive. Just one-minute in a nice throw-in from Meagan
Hill was just a little too long for the feet of Megan Glyn. Cougars attacked
again in the second-minute with a lovely cross from Megan in to the box and
the feet of Ria Mosson. Ria was clinical in her finish, straight to the back
of Tower Hill’s net. Cougars 1 – 0 Tower Hill. Again, just another minute in
to the game Tower Hill’s defence had to work overtime to keep out an attack
from Megan and Ria, but it came back to the feet of Cougar’s April Millin,
who tapped it in past Tower Hill’s goalie to make it 2 - 0 after just three
minutes. Cougars continued attacking with an excellent throw-in from Rianna
Ianniello, which was well defended by Tower Hill but conceeded a corner to
Cougars, which came to nothing. In the eighth-minute two strikes from
Cougars came very close to Tower Hill’s goal, just a shame it was the
woodwork rather than the net as Megan’s kick hit the left hand post, then
Meagan put a good strike in but it was safely in the hands of Tower Hill’s
goalie. Things quietened down in the middle of the first half until Tower
Hill put together their first serious attack, the first time they had spent
any time in Cougar’s half, but strong defending from Emma Goodchild and
Rianna kept them from scoring. It took right up to the last minute of the
half for Cougars to come back at them rewarded with a cracking goal from
Meagan to make it 3 – 0 at half time.
Cougar’s got the second half going and were straight back on the attack, a
good build up from Witney Wright and Megan in mid-field got right up to Katy
Brooks, but a weak strike saw it end up with Tower Hill’s goalie. Tower Hill
responded and it took Cougar’s goalie, Katie Light, full skill to stop them
scoring. Then it was Cougars’ turn to respond, a strong mid-field
performance got it to the feet of Ria and through the goalie’s legs to make
it 4 – 0 in the thirty-first minute. Just one more minute and Megan scored
another one to make it 5 – 0! Tower Hill re-grouped and put together some
good passes to get it right up to their No. 21 and her strong strike got
their first score, making it 5 – 1. With renewed confidence Tower Hill
attacked again; only brave goal keeping from Katie prevented another score
as she came right to the edge of the box to block Tower Hill’s striker from
scoring. Thirty-nine minutes gone and it was starting to go Tower Hill’s
way, with another attack, well defended by Heather Lowe. Then a great strike
from Tower Hill earned them another goal to make it 5 – 2 with just three
minutes to go. With one of the best strikes of the game, Tower Hill’s
striker put an amazing volley, just missing target by hitting Cougar’s
cross-bar. It was Cougars though that finished the game on the attack but
Katy’s strike ended up in the goalie’s hands. The whistle blown and the
final score Cougars 5 – 2 Tower Hill. Four games, four wins surely puts
Cougars at the top of the league.
‘Girl of the Game’ was awarded by Coach, Toby Goodchild, to Katie Light for
excellent distribution, always looking to pass and keeping the game moving |
|
13.10.07 |
Ducklington 0 v
Carterton FC Cougars 3
It was a humid, dull and drizzly start as Ducklington kicked-off a few
minutes late at 10:35. Both teams settled in well, but Ducklington had the
first attack three minutes in to the game. A good attempt from Ducklington’s
number four was well covered by Cougar’s goalie, Katie Light, and ended up
hitting the outside of the side netting. On the counter attack Ducklington
put in a poor tackle, giving a free kick to Cougars, but it came to nothing.
Just a few minutes later Cougars were on the attack again and a great strike
from Megan Glyn was only just saved by Ducklington’s goalie. Cougars
pressure continued and the ninth minute saw another attempt at goal, this
time from Meagan Hill, only missing target by a few feet to the right. Then,
just two-minutes later, another strike from Ria Mosson was also just a few
feet to the right of Ducklington’s goal. Ducklington tried to get back in to
the game, but an excellent clearance by Cougars’ Rianna Ianniello put paid
to that. Cougars came straight back with excellent mid-field work from April
Millin and two more shots at goal from Ria; Ducklington’s goalie was worked
hard to prevent Cougars scoring. In the twenty-first minute, Ducklington’s
best shot at goal reached the safe hands of Katie, leaving it 0 – 0 with
just 3 minutes left in the first half. Cougars made the most of these last
few minutes, with two great goals from Ria. The first went through the
goalie’s legs and the second was an incredible shot from more than twenty
metres out, straight in to the back of Ducklington’s goal.
Half-time score: Ducklington 0 v Carterton FC Cougars 2
Cougars kicked off the second half and instantly put pressure on
Ducklington, but Ducklington responded and it was only excellent defending
from Emma Goodchild that stopped their efforts being rewarded. Then it was
Cougars turn to attack and Megan stuck one in from a very fine angle to put
Cougars three goals ahead in the thirty-fifth minute. For the last fifteen
minutes Cougars made a couple of changes with Katy Brooks and Heather Lowe
replacing Meagan and April. The fresh legs obviously helped the team effort
and the attack continued with a good attempt from Megan going just left of
target in the last minute.
Final score Ducklington 0 v Carterton FC Cougars 3.
An excellent team performance and 'Girl of the Game' was a very difficult
decision. Rianna deserves a special mention for her super efforts in defence
and her cheeky long shot on goal. Ria also had a fantastic game, despite not
feeling 100% - what a wonderful second goal. However, the award was made to
Emma Goodchild for a cool and confident performance in defence. Everything
that came her way was dealt with calmly and efficiently; she listened to and
responded well to her coach. Well done, Emma!
Well done, Cougars! |
|
29.9.07 |
Charlbury 0 Carterton
FC Cougars 7
Charlbury kicked off a few minutes late at 10:03. For the first
few minutes it was fairly even, mostly played in mid-field, but the Cougars
found their way through with a great cross from Meagan Hill just missing Ria
Mosson’s feet to go wide of the post. The fifth minute saw Cougars’
mid-field Megan Glyn put a great shot at goal hand-balled by the Charlbury
defence and a penalty was awarded. Ria made no mistake with a classic shot
making it 0 – 1. Cougars continued to apply huge pressure and the 8th minute
saw a goal for Megan, followed by another one for Ria in the 10th minute.
The full-width pitch made for good open play, although corners proved
difficult at times. In the 16th minute Meagan made a super-strike, from at
least 15 yards out, straight over the heads of the Charlbury’s defenders to
score Cougars’ 4th goal. Charlbury created a good chance towards the end of
the first half, but it came to nothing as Cougar’s defence, Emma Goodchild
and Witney Wright blocked the attack, leaving the half-time score 0 – 4.
The second half saw an improved structure from Charlbury, and it took the
Cougars a few minutes to get back in to their stride, but Megan broke
through again in the 33rd minute with a long shot from 20 yards out,
straight in to the back of Charlbury’s net. Just a few minutes later,
Charlbury tried to retaliate putting a good shot in only stopped by Cougars’
goalie, Katie Light, who just got her fingers to it to deflect it over the
top. Cougars got back on the attack and a superb cross was just out of reach
of Katy Brooks’ left boot, leaving a good effort un-rewarded, but not for
long … in the 43rd minute Megan scored her second goal. Unfortunately, to
add injury to insult Charlbury’s No.6 had to be taken off the field with an
injured foot following a hard but fair tackle from Cougar’s Witney. The
final minute saw the final goal of the game; Witney stuck one in to make the
final score Charlbury 0 – Cougars 7.
Girl of the Game was a tough decision for Coach Andy as the whole team had
put in a fabulous performance. As ever there can only be one winner, so
Meagan was named Girl of the Game for her huge work-rate throughout the
match. So, a great start to the season continues; played 2, won 2; it
doesn’t get much better than that! |
|
15.9.07 |
Carterton FC Cougars 4
v Cholsey Bluebirds 1
After a tough training match mid week, the Cougars were ready for action.
Carterton kicked off and enjoyed a sustained period of possession, which
helped them get into their stride. There were some lovely passing moves in
front of the goal between Megan Glyn and Katy Brooks, bringing about
Carterton’s first goal with Katy finding the back of the net. Cholsey tried
to hit back but home keeper, Katie Light gathered up the ball and launched
it to the half way mark, where Rianna Ianniello put in a cheeky long shot –
on target but saved. Undeterred, Cholsey broke back again and this time
equalised just before the whistle to bring the half time score to 1 – 1.
An encouraging team talk from stand in coach, Peter Brooks, brought the
girls back onto the field in high spirits and within a minute, Carterton
were 2 – 1 up, thanks to an excellent corner from Ria Mosson, convincingly
struck into the net by Megan. The Cougars continued piling on the pressure,
with further strikes on goal by April Millin, Witney Wright and Ria. Ria was
rewarded with two goals, taking the score to 4 – 1 in favour of Carterton.
With much of the action in Cholsey’s half, the Carterton defence were kept
on their toes by frequent breaks from the visitors but Rianna and Emma
Goodchild were confident and solid in defence, assisted in the second half
by an inspired Heather Lowe.
‘Girl of the Game’ was awarded to Meagan Hill for an amazing high energy and
focussed performance. Her determination and composure on the ball was
wonderful to watch.
Fantastic start to the season, girls. Well done! |
|
Fixture dates |
Home v Away
Reports |
 |
|
26.4.08 |
Carterton FC 1 v Tower Hill Vixens 0 (Cup Semi Final)
A fine finish from Chloe Billins 5 minutes into the second half was enough
to take Carterton to the Cup Final for the third consecutive year. The two
sides had drawn both their earlier league matches, so a close game was
expected.
Carterton started a little tentatively giving Tower Hill far too much time
on the edge of the box. Keeper Lydia Miles was very quick to react to a
number of Tower Goal threats – on one occasion rapidly closing down Tower’s
top scorer Charlie Hamilton when a goal looked on the cards. This set the
tone and the Carterton defence as they gave their opponents less and less
time and space as the game went on. Jodie Davis was in exceptional form
showing excellent anticipation and pace as she played her best ever match to
take the ‘Girl of the Game’ award. Although Chloe grabbed the winner, it was
her all-round performance which made her the games stand-out player - She
ran her socks off in both defence and attack, and was a continual threat to
Tower’s goal.
The attitude of all the Carterton girls was superb before and during the
game. They were focused, worked hard and showed a great attitude. This
attitude was typified by Sarah and Gaz, neither of whom took part in the
match, but both played their part in the preparations and in encouraging the
team through out.
We look forward to the Final against Bloxham on 10th May. Congratulations to
our U10 girls who have also made it to their Final. |
|
19.4.08 |
Highworth Town 0 v Carterton FC 8
Cartertons final league match of season: goals by Chloe Billins 4, Jade
Pitts 2, Lucy Henshaw 2. |
|
5.4.08 |
Oxford Bluebirds 1 v Carterton FC 5
A clinical hatrick by high flying Chloe Billins and a goal each for Hayley
Wrightson and Jade Pitts saw the visitors to a comfortable win in their
penultimate league fixture of the season. Sarah Derrick was awarded Girl Of
The Game for an excellent performance in central midfield. |
|
29.3.08 |
Kidlington 1 v Carterton FC 1 (after
extra time) - Carterton win on penalties
A great cup tie played in a fine spirit saw the
visitors produce most of the chances, but fail to convert any until late
into normal time. The home side had taken the lead early in the second half,
after which Carterton applied tremendous pressure, but could not make the
break through. Then after yet another scramble around the home goal, the
ball was bundled over the line by Jade Pitts.
Extra time failed to produce a result, and so to penalties. Each side ended
up taking 8 spot kicks until finally hero for the hour, keeper Lydia Miles
produced yet another save, this time to deny Kidlington a semi-final place
for the first time in years.
A superb team effort by Carterton - who always fancy themselves when it goes
to pens. After the euphoric celebrations, the team awarded Lidi the Girl of
the game. Credit to both teams and sets of supporters in playing their part
in this terrific sporting drama. |
|
15.3.08 |
Wychwood 5 v Carterton FC 2 |
|
8.3.08 |
Carterton FC 3 v Benson
2
The recreation ground saw a great game of football against one of our old
rivals and friends. A gusty wind did not hamper the match to any great
degree and the forecasted rain kept away.
The home side made all the play in the first half when out of the blue a
clever chip shot from Benson’s Abi Lanning gave them an unlikely halftime
lead
Carterton started the second half as strongly as they had the first, with
very good passing and movement. Eventually their break came in the form of
an ‘Archie Gemmel, World Cup style dribble and finish’ by Hayley Wrightson
(If I recall correctly, Scotland V Holland 1978?). Soon after, a Carterton
defensive lapse was seized upon by Eleanor Day to hand back the lead to the
visitors. The home side continued to play some great football, moving the
ball around well and increasingly stretching and tiring the visitors.
Eventually a powerful drive by Chloe Billins was deflected into the Benson
net to make it two each. Carterton kept pressing with several shots going
just wide then with seconds remaining a Billins corner was bundled into the
net by Jade Pitts to give Carterton the 3 points.
Benson could consider themselves unlucky not to have gained a draw, but
Carterton’s never give up attitude nabbed the 3 points.
Girl of the Game: Lydia Miles |
|
1.3.08 |
Carterton FC 2 v Tower
Hill Vixens 2
Carterton took an early
lead, in this top of the table clash, through Lucy Henshaw, she then claimed
another after a fierce Chloe Billins shot was not cleared. The home side
seemed in control until a superb opportunist chip by Charley Hamilton
narrowed their lead.
Tower Hill playing with the wind in the second half drew level early in the
second half through Hamilton. This was a great game of football, and while
both sides created further chances the scores remained level. |
|
16.2.08 |
Benson 0 v Carterton FC
0
During this disapointing result for Cartertons title hopes there were still
too many mogles on the thawing pitch to allow any sustained quality
football. with main rivals Tower Hill still having a number of tricky
fixtuers during the end of season run there is still all to play for. Credit
to the home side for bouncing back after their drubbing of last week.
Girl of the game: Jodi Davis
|
|
9.2.08 |
Kidlington A 0 v
Carterton FC 3
Carterton U13's 'A'
completed a league double over a Kidlington side previously unbeaten for 3
seasons. a magnificent team performance resulted in a 3 nil away win, with
goals from Bonita Penn and a brace from hotshot Chloe Billins. |
|
2.2.08 |
Bardwell 2 v Carterton
FC 3
A fine hatrick by girl
of the game Chloe Billins gave Carterton under 13's the 3 points at
Bardwell. She was well supported by a fine midfield display by Hayley
Wrightson in the 3 - 2 victory. |
|
26.1.08 |
Carterton FC 1 v
Bloxham 1
A
powerful late strike from Chloe Billins saved Cartertons blushes as the
points were shared with visiting Bloxham. Excellent performances by both
keepers resulted in an unispiring 1 - 1 draw. |
|
12.1.08 |
Wantage 1 v Carterton FC 4 |
|
15.12.07 |
Carterton FC 5 v Oxford Bluebirds 1 |
|
8.12.07 |
Carterton FC 3 v Bardwell 1 CUP (after extra time and penalties) |
|
1.12.07 |
Carterton FC 0 v Wychwood 1 |
|
10.11.07 |
Tower Hill Vixens A 4 v
Carterton FC 4
This top of the table clash would ensure bragging rights for the winner, and
perhaps identify the favourites for the league. Carterton fresh from a
victory last week were confident and also had a full squad, with all
injuries now well on the mend. Conditions were good and a small pitch meant
that accurate passing and close control would be vital. Coach, RAF man Jason
Penn, having missed last weeks game, was back adding his usual tactical
acumen and vocal support (ear defenders anyone) from the sidelines.
Carterton got off to a good start with an early goal from top scorer Chloe
Billins, who started the game with intent, running at the opposition from
deep, unleashing a powerful drive that the keeper could not hold. The lead
did not last for long, however, as Tower Hill showed what a threat they can
be. With their inspirational number 5, directing playing and forcing the
pace, leading to a well taken equaliser. A second soon followed from a fine
passage of play, the Carterton girls failing to close them down quickly
enough. It was clear we were going to be in for a battle with this team of
pace, strength and no little skill. Carterton had a couple of chances to
equalise, but could not capitalise and Tower Hill went into half time in the
lead. It was time for the “hairdryer” with both Jason and Manager Tim,
firing of a couple of volleys – they know the girls were better than they
had showed in the first half.
A couple of tactical changes (it’s not all about shouting), with Jade Pitts,
slotting in up front seemed to work, and she netted the equaliser for
Carterton, 2-2 - thank god for the hairdryer treatment. But again back came
Tower Hill, they took the lead again from a neat bit of play, with some good
passing. Then came the killer blow, with a penalty for handball. Having
shown some earlier heroics, first choice keeper Abbie Willougby, bravely
putting her body on the line, had now departed. New keeper Gazza, displayed
the kind of antics which made Bruce Grobbelaar famous (no she did not have a
moustache and took no bung) but she did wave her arms about furiously, but
to no avail, despite getting close to saving it was 4-2 to Tower Hill. Now
up against it Carterton again faced adversity with an injury to “hardman”
Hayley Wrightson. A ball full in the mouth chipped her tooth – now we had a
physio and a medic nearby, unfortunately no dentist so she was forced to
leave the field. Crying at the side, not in pain (I said she was hard), but
to get back in to the fray. And this fighting spirit may have galvanised the
team because back they came. A well taken free kick rebounding off the bar
was bundled in by Jade, not pretty (the goal not Jade), but we were back in
it with a minute to go. The tension of this week’s Queen’s speech had
nothing on this. The equaliser came from force of will of Chloe Billins, who
could not have covered more of the pitch if you’d given her a lawnmower.
Running at them again she flicked the ball past the keeper 4-4 with almost
the final kick of the game. Rapture from the parents who reacted as if they
just been told the price of petrol was now coming down (no such luck), and a
great result.
One sour note was the ref having to speak to a member of the crowd, for over
eager advice. “I was just trying to help” claimed sponsor Bobby Dearman, and
blamed it all on the high visibility jacket he was wearing. |
|
3.11.07 |
Carterton FC 2 v
Kidlington A 0
While the rest of the country were gripped with the fever that the Arsenal v
Man Utd game was generating, for the parents of Carterton U13 girls it was
different. I wrote some weeks ago about the excitement and anticipation at
the beginning of a new season, but that is as nothing compared to the
tension that the build up to a match with Kidlington generates. The two
teams have been great rivals for the past couple of seasons, so this first
meeting of the year was very important and would set the tone for the rest
of the season.
For us the match was entitled “The Bonecruncher” not because of some B rate
Hollywood movie or a hangover from Halloween , but because two of the girls
were returning from layoffs with broken bones – who says girls football is
soft (Health and safety note: the bones were not broken in games, but it
adds to the drama). So with a full squad to choose from manager Tim had all
options open to him (other than avoiding shopping with his wife after the
match). The best move of the day however came before a ball was kicked when
the Carterton parents managed, after a 45 minute struggle, to erect the
second goal, with sponsor (Bobby Dearman) having walked off in a huff after
kicking it - entries for the parents to the Krypton Factor have been
cancelled.
The game started at a frenetic pace, with both teams displaying some nice
touches and looking comfortable on the ball. For Carterton the front pairing
of Lucy Henshaw and Chloe Billins was working well, looking to have a good
understanding of each other’s runs. At the back, Captain Jade Pitts was
solid and vocal in organising the girls and was strongly supported by Hayley
Wrightson when we were on the defensive. A couple of testers for the
Kidlington keeper showed that she was more than capable, with their defence
also looking solid; this would be tight. The ball was literally pinging from
end-to end with Lydia Miles and Bonita Penn covering every blade of grass as
they sprinted up and down the wings. An excellent attack from Kidlington
brought a fine reflex save out of goalkeeper Abbie Willoughby. Carterton had
some nice moves without being able to find the killer pass or final shot.
Tight it was and all square at 0-0 for half-time.
In the second half Kidlington had an early opportunity, again drawing
another fine save from Abbie, this time using her legs to push the ball out
for a corner. An excellent move from Carterton up the left, with an incisive
pass from Jodie Davis, returning from injury with a broken arm, put Chloe
clear, but unfortunately she could not finish. The other newly mended bone,
Jess Dearman (leg) entered the fray and showed she is on the road to
recovery, showing some neat touches out on the right. As the half wore on it
was almost certain that the first goal would be decisive. Chloe perhaps
conscious of an earlier miss and having shed her marker received a great
pass from Jodie and thundered a shot past the keeper – game on (well game
nearly over actually). A couple of other changes from Tim (and they call
Rapha Benitez the tinkerman) with Gaynor taking up station in goal and Sarah
Derrick on the right. Both were immediately in action, with Gaynor getting
in a early, and vital save and Sarah backing up Hayley in midfield, both
putting their foot in to make vital blocks. To ease the nerves a second goal
came, Chloe picked the ball up on the half way line, went wide before
cutting back in and unleashing another pile-driver, 2-0 and game was over
with no time to recover. Carterton took a well-earned and excellent win, but
make no mistake they played an excellent team and there is no doubt that
there are more battles to come with Kidlington this season. Girl of the game
was hard to choose, with a brace from Chloe, Hayley and Jade’s solid
defending and the workrate of Bonita and Lydia all impressive, but Jodie’s
performance after a lengthy layoff took the award.
The real test was now to come as many parents tried to look the other way,
and Bobby was seen running away screaming – the goal had to be taken
down!!!! |
|
6.10.07 |
Carterton FC 7 v
Bardwell 0
The start of a new football season usually heralds a change in the weather,
with rain, sodden pitches and strong winds. No change required this year as
we’ve had that weather all “summer”, and with Carterton’s home pitches
resembling boating lakes for a time there was talk of the club switching to
water polo. Didn’t Global warming mean it was supposed to be warm?
Anyway the start of a new season is always exciting, the build-up the week
before the game, the tension on the morning of the match and finally
observing the opposition before kick-off. No different this week, with
Bardwell having all the typical stereotypes. The big stocky one who never
stops shouting at the others; a whippet like flyer getting up and down the
touchline and one who is always giving the referee a hard time – well that’s
enough about the parents what about the teams.
The Bardwell girls did appear to have a greater maturity than their
diminutive Carterton opposition, who inhabit the lower end of the age
spectrum, but size is not everything (just ask the wife), it would be skill
and graft that would out. Carterton started well and were controlling
possession; the lessons learned over previous seasons and in pre-season
training were immediately to the fore as they started to pass the ball
around with great confidence. And then the first half Chloe Billins show
commenced. I have written before of the powerful shot she possesses, but
couple this with accuracy, strong running and a work rate that was second to
none and what do you get, well a great player and all 4 goals for a first
half lead.
The second half continued in much the same way with Carterton in control,
although Bardwell did look threatening on a number of occasions and the
defence, Jade Pitts and new signing Gaynor “Gaz” had to be alert to the
danger, although goalkeeper Abbie was quick off her line when danger
threatened. Some nice play out wide from Bonita Penn, Lydia Miles and Sarah
Derrick ensured there was always a constant threat to the Bardwell goal.
Chloe and Lucy Henshaw both went close on a number of occasions and Hayley
Wrightson was constantly active disrupting the Bardwell flow. The next goal
when it came was from an unlikely source, with Jade having moved up front,
taking a well-converted penalty from a handball incident, 5-0. A further 2
goals followed with a nice effort from Lydia Miles, and Jade having got the
taste scoring the last for an excellent 7-0 win. Unsurprisingly Chloe
Billins was awarded girl of the game.
Premier League Managers have to suffer the international weekends, which
break up continuity and can disrupt a winning run. For manager Tim Miles
it’s half-term that brings the disruption – so many similarities with the
top level and with the special one having moved on who knows…… |
|
29.9.07 |
Bloxham 1 v Carterton FC 1 |
|
19.9.07 |
Carterton FC 15 v
Highworth Town 0
This was an easy win against a new team that have unfortunately been placed
in the wrong league. The visiting keeper played very well to keep the score
down early on but gradually the flood gates opened. The Goals came from
Chloe Billins 4, Lucy Henshaw 3, Jade Pitts 3, Hayley Wrightson 2, Bonita
Penn, Lydia Miles & skipper Sarah Derrick.
Girl of the Game: Sarah Derrick |
|
15.9.07 |
Carterton FC 4 v
Wantage 1
Goals from Lucy Henshaw and Chloe Billins gave the home side a comfortable
lead before Wantage pulled 1 back before half time through Poppy Dando.
After the break it took some time for Carterton to breach a strong visiting
defence, but eventually the ever threatening Billins completed her hat
trick. |
Tuesday 26th through to Friday 29th August 2008 sees the ever popular CFC
Football action packed fun week
Only £ 40.00 per child
This fun week is for girls & boys for ages of 3+ through to 15 years & they
will be split into ability groups and not age groups
The activities will be appropriate for the weather conditions (if raining will
be in doors) and run by qualified experienced coaches and their able assisted
helpers
Application forms now available from Dave Brown (Mini Soccer organiser who is
also Oxford United Youth Scout) at Mini Soccer which will be starting again
Sunday 13.7.08 at Kilkenny Lane or phone him on 07786867230 or his home number
01993 844414 for more
details etc.
Places will be on a first come 1st served basis so please reserve you child/s
place/s now
