… On a roll …

Match:  Champions Cup vs Barnsley

Venue: Dorothy Hyman Stadium, Cudworth  

Date and Time: 17 November 2023

Kick-off: 7:30 PM

Squad:

Izzy Lucy Erin Aria Molly Holly Sophie

Poppy  Eleanor  Leila  Lacey  Grace Hattie

Missing this week were:

Kathryn – Dasha – Rhiannon – Abbie

The Dorothy Hyman Athletics Stadium and football pitches in Cudworth were beautifully illuminated against the skyline as the York Girls U14s clashed with Barnsley. The Barnsley girls, smart in their school uniforms and representative ties, added a touch of formality to the occasion. Despite worries of Christmas traffic problems, eager parents arrived early, building the anticipation for an exciting match.

 

First Half:

 

The first half was characterized with entertaining but cautious play as both teams sought to understand each other’s strategies and strengths.

Initial York attacks showcased Erin’s ball carrying, Poppy’s close control, and Grace’s turn of pace as she got York’s first shot on target.  An easy save for the Barnsley keeper.

The York defence, of Erin Molly Aria and Holly, remained resolute when pressured, while Holly faced a challenging matchup against a very fast and skilful winger.

Notable was a lovely freekick from 25 yards by Leila (beating the keeper but rebounding back from the post) and a subsequent sharp shot from Poppy – again saved by the keeper.

Despite the occasional attack from the Barnsley right, the defence held strong – Aria demonstrated her typical strength and determination.  Some crunching challenges in the midfield characterised the work carried out by Eleanor and Leila.  The physicality was strong from both teams which meant for strong and clear refereeing decisions too – including a yellow card issued to a Barnsley player for dissent.

The first half concluded with promising signs for York.  Tactical changes were made with Molly and Hattie entering for Sophie and Grace, respectively. Changes can be disruptive to the flow of the game – but Sophie’s presence made an immediate impact calming the defensive line.  Further attacks from both sides continued without any goal pressure maintaining the score at half time to 0-0.

Second Half:

The second half began with further changes, Lucy taking her place in goal.  And spurred on by the encouragement of their coaches York upped their physicality and pace to assert some dominance. Molly’s confident dribbling set up a number of attacks, and Grace, on the right wing, posed a continuous threat to the Barnsley defence.  The breakthrough came as result of persistent pressure – with Hattie’s tenacious efforts, netting the first goal; assisted by Eleanor.

 

Barnsley 0:1 York – Hattie with Eleanor assist.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barnsley needed an immediate reaction and had to push forward.  Attacks were thwarted by Holly and Aria in quick succession, but it also left Barnsley more open at the back.

The second goal showcased Poppy’s quality as she twisted, turned and finished with a lofted, dipping shot from the edge of the area. The move was again assisted by Eleanor with a delightful inside ball from the wing.

 

 

Barnsley 0:2 York – Poppy with Eleanor assist.

 

 

 

 

 

As time grew on Lacey became more of a threat and became more of an outlet into attack. She showed her skill, determination and pace – both in defiant defence and using the full width of the pitch in attack.

 

Lucy, in goal during this period, maintained her concentration too and made important saves.  Taking a painful knock to her hip Lucy was replaced by Izzy – but there was no loss of concentration. And, Eleanor capped a super performance by providing her third assist of the evening; setting up a well-deserved goal for Poppy.  The third goal for York.

 

 

Barnsley 0:3 York – Poppy assisted by Eleanor.

 

 

 

 

There was no drop in intensity from either team – and another yellow card was shown for a poor challenge by a Barnsley mid-fielder.  The match saw knocks taken by Lucy, Grace and Poppy.  Quick recovery to you all girls!

Final score:  Barnsley 0:3 York

The match demonstrated physical, determined and skilful action from both teams. The superiority of the York Girls showed through, particularly in the second half.  An excellent result with all the girls playing well – with some superb performances.

Well done girls!  Keep it going!