BGL u11 Portishead Town 0 v 1 Westbury Park Foxes

Foxes stretch lead at the top with tough away win!

Not a great start to the day, with 'keeper Betty up until 1am vomiting but she was determined to pull on the gloves and make the journey to Portishead!
The home team had been in a rich vein of form recently, taking points from Bradley Stoke and Boco, and had only suffered 1 defeat themselves, in the return fixture at the beginning of the season.
The Foxes new they would be up against it today, with a baptism of fire for the new Foxy numbered kit!

With the advantage of end choice the Foxes had the low sun behind them, and were straight on the offensive pushing the home team back and forcing some early corners. Portishead were a much bigger team, and lined up with 3 big defenders, who looked to release their lively number 5 whenever possible. They clearly looked a danger on the counter, but Lulu, Rhiannon and Amelia did a sterling defensive job, and, set piece aside, the Foxes goal was never really threatened.
Midway through the first half the Foxes took the lead, with a powerful run by Sim down the left crossed with pace. The defender's clearance sliced over the 'keeper's head, and was heading goal wards as Ella arrived at the back post to make sure it hit the back of the net.
With Lily on for Sim the first half continued as a midfield battle, with neither team able to breach the oppositions' defensive lines.

Half time and 1-0. The team talk was all about being aware of the opposition's set pieces, closing down in midfield and keeping the marking tight.
Izzy came on as the Foxes looked to soak up pressure and hit on the break, and the tactic seemed to work, with Rhiannon running the ball out and Sim making strong runs. Molly's introduction took the tactic a step too far, as the front line was overrun and Portishead were able to quickly recycle the ball.
Mindful of their strikers powerful shots from distance the Foxes bench switched things around again to provide a greater midfield presence, and the game started to swing back into the Foxes favour.
So the match ended 1-0, and all agreed that it had been the toughest game of the season so far. But a great defensive display and another clean sheet made for a happy trip back to Bristol.

Captain of the Week: Ella
Girl of the Game: Betty