Wednesday 9 December 2015

BGL u13 Westbury Park Foxes 6 v 0 Bristol Ladies Union

Foxes show class in local derby game!

After a gap of 2 weeks the Foxes assembled for the first of the double header derby games against local rivals (and school chums!), Bristol Ladies Union.
Welcoming Zoe back from international duty, picking up the balls at Ashton Gate in the rain, the Foxes were determined not to repeat last seasons banana skin that had seen defeat in a dead rubber game!
The home side were only one short of a full squad, meaning there would be frequent rotation of the team.
The first half was dominated by the Foxes who had the lions share of possession and territory. Some great overlapping wing play set up the first chance that was steered narrowly wide, before 2 trademark Zoe runs were rewarded with goals, the second a pile driver from the edge of the box!
A memorable third was added as Rhiannon burst down the right, taking the ball all the way into the penalty box before planting a cool finish into the bottom corner!
3-0 at the break, and with confidence high the Foxes set about the second half in the same manner as the first.
Three more goals were added, a great run and strike by Ella B was followed by a great example of following in by Millie. Following a Sim strike that the away keeper could only palm away, the midfielder was on hand to calmly stoke in the rebound.
Sim was rewarded for hard effort following a great Mara run down the left. The ball was pulled back across the 4 yard line to give the striker a simple tap in!

So a great performance by the whole team with some fine passing and overlapping from the fullbacks!
BLU will no doubt be working on a plan to stop us ahead of the return fixture next week, so there will be no room for complacency!

Captain of the Week: Rhiannon

Girl of the Game : Rhiannon

Tuesday 8 December 2015

BGL u13 Westbury Park Foxes 3 v 0 Keynsham Town

Foxes maintain form with comfortable victory


A hazy day greeted the Foxes as they took on Keynsham at BAWA.
The meeting last season had been a landslide for the Foxes, in what was Keynsham's first BGL fixture.
This encounter would be a stiffer test, with the away side sitting mid table , and not having conceded many in their encounters this year.
The Foxes were further deprived by Centre Parcs, swimming galas, and sleepovers, of most of their left hand side!
So a re jigged lineup but the same great determination and footballing skill on display.
The Foxes asserted pressure, before an early injury to Ella B meant an earlier than planned for switch, as Millie was pushed up into midfield.
The home side didn't have long to wait for the opening goal, as Sim battled the defender on a through ball that left the defender with no choice but to turn the ball into her own net. 1-0 Foxes!
It was clear that the away side had added some steel to their play, and thankfully some strong refereeing was enforced as the Foxes midfield were regularly brought down. It was from one such free kick that Zoe got up, dusted herself down and calmly fired in from outside the box. 2-0 at halftime.
The second half was again dominated by the Foxes, but Keynsham held firm until midway through the half when assist of the season saw Millie hit a 30 metre pass through the central defenders, anticipated by Sim who timed the run perfectly to beat the offside. One touch to control and a second to fire into the top corner.
The Foxes played out the rest of the game to ensure another clean sheet and another week at the top of the BGL!


Monday 23 November 2015

Year 10 - BSYL, Foxes 2- 0 Bishopston Youth, 21/11/15


The Foxes went to the top of the BSYL u15 division with an impressive win over local rivals, and reigning champions, Bishopston Youth.
 
With Jack missing die to illness, Joe took over the captain's duties and played a dominant role throughout. He was joined in midfield for the first half by Sam, making an earlier than anticipated return from his ankle injury. It was great to have him back.
 
The Foxes dominated the first half but failed to make the most of a succession of chances. When Bishopston did attack the home side’s back four, brilliantly led by Dom Robbins, kept them at bay. When finally called on, Owen made a brave block to keep the scores at 0-0 at halftime.   

With the strengthening wind at their backs in the second half the Foxes continued to press and Omar broke the deadlock after he fashioned a chance through an eye catching piece of individual skill. Bishopston kept trying to find a way through to the Foxes goal and were denied a possible equaliser from a long-range freekick that the referee could not be sure had crossed the line after hitting the bar.
 
That apart, the Foxes continued to control the game and a deserved second came when Ed  interchanged passes with Omar on the edge of the box before slipping the ball past the Bishopston keeper. There was still time for more chances for the Foxes, including a corner from Danny that crashed on to the bar.
 
A great performance and a deserved win.  

Coaches' player of the match – Joe
Players' Player - Dom Robbins        

Year 10 BSYL - Bishopston Colts 0 - 17 Foxes, 14/11/15

Due to the heavy rain that bucketed down over the preceding week this game was switched to the wonderful St Bedes. Being from a younger year group (u14s) Bishopston Colts have had a tough 2015/16 season but showed in the first 10 minutes or so that they have some strong players and would clearly be competitive playing against their own age group.

Sonny started upfront for the Foxes and when he curbed his desire to drop deep to get involved he gave the home side it's proper shape and unlocked a flood of goals. With Omar taking a turn in goal due to Owen's absence, Danny was the biggest beneficiary in the first half as he collected four out of the first six.

The second half, with Danny wearing Owen's gloves, saw Bishopston tire and the goals mount up. Omar grabbed five and Sonny a well deserved hatrick.

A great work out for the boys ahead of tougher challenges.  

Ollie C was coaches' player due to his many assists.

Danny and Omar shared the players' player vote.

Monday 16 November 2015

BGL u13 AEK Boco Blue 1 v 2 Westbury Park Foxes

Foxes Back on Top




The girls climbed back to the top of a rather congested BGL on a weekend that saw many games fall foul of the weather.

The Hanham pitch was playable, but it was clear that it was going to be extremely heavy underfoot, which would make for some tired legs. Fortunately for all, the strong morning wind had dropped; greatly appreciated by those on the touchline.

After a respectful silence in view of the weekend's events, the home team kicked off. The tactics of the two teams were clear from the off. The home team looked to play the ball behind the Foxes defence at any opportunity, whilst the Foxes tried to exploit the firmer ground down the flanks.
In truth the Foxes were little troubled as the long grass and heavy surface slowed the ball, making it easy for the defence. The home side then tried to hit it harder, allowing Betty to claim easily on the edge of the box.
The Foxes started to open up the defence with some delightful passages of play, including a 4 pass move including a back-heel, to set up Sim who fired narrowly over.
Further chances, and a post rattled, meant it was all square at the break.
 The Foxes remained confident going into the second half that the breakthrough would come, and with a new 'keeper in the home goal, it didn't take long.
The Foxes broke quickly and a perfectly timed ball played Sim in to fire home into the top corner.
As so often happens as teams go in search of an equaliser, the gaps opened up, and Zoe was at last able to leave her marker, without being upended, to sprint through and blast high into the net.
So all looked comfortable, until, again, the Foxes conceded from a corner. A failed near post clearance and the ball squirmed towards the line. Betty got at least one had to it before a quick reacting Boco forward toed it over the line.
At 2-1 the home side were suddenly back in it, so the Foxes bench reverted to their starting back line to see out the final few minutes.

So still some thing to work on, but the Foxes are still in the mix in what is turning out to be the most competitive season yet.

Captain of the week : Mara

Girl of the Game : Lulu

Monday 9 November 2015

BGL u13 Westbury Park Foxes 0 v 3 Wotton Rovers

Foxes slip to defeat

The Foxes arrived not really knowing what to expect from a Wotton side that had taken the beginning of the season by storm, after recruiting from the cream of the Gloucester league and development centre over the summer.
More latterly results had faltered, but sadly for the Foxes, it was the ferocious Mr Hyde, rather than the timid Dr Jekyll, that arrived at BAWA. Wotton were at full strength!

With a strong wind behind them, the visitors made most of the early running, forcing a save and hitting the post.
An early injury to Lulu meant a reshuffle, as the Foxes again found themselves on the back foot.
After some adjustment the game started to even out as the Foxes pressed forward, but too often the delayed pass allowed the stout Wotton defence to get organised and clear their lines. With Milly T able to turn on the 'Des Walker' afterburners to outpace the Wotton attack the teams cancelled each other out.
So a tight and pretty even game eventually swung in the oppositions' favour by the Foxes achilles heel - defending the set piece. A corner came in and a Wotton striker was allowed a free run to the 4 year box. With neither defence or goalkeeper claiming the ball it was bundled over the line.

So 0-1 at the break, but the Foxes would have the advantage of the strong wind in the second half.

The Foxes started the second half on the front foot, and enjoyed their best spell of the game enjoying the lions share of territory and possession. Lauren arrived in midfield tasked with playing the ball through the away defence, but before any impact could be made a carbon copy of the first goal put Wotton in charge.
At 2-0 down the Foxes threw caution to the wind and the inevitable sucker punch of a breakaway goal put the result beyond doubt.

So much to work on in training. Zonal or Man to Man, answers on a post card please, but no reason to be down heartened, as the girls gave a great display of tenacity and skill. The league is proving to be exciting and competitive this year and the Foxes are still right in the mix!

Captain of the Week: Lulu

Girl of the Game:  Emily H (with broken finger!)

Sorry, no photos, too much tension!

Sunday 8 November 2015

BGL u13 Whitchurch Sports 0 v 8 Westbury Park Foxes

Foxes Turn on the Style!

The Foxes took their fine form to south Bristol on a sunny afternoon to face Lauren's former team.
Whilst the score line looked decisive, this was a competitive game, with the opposition clearly having a game plan to sit deep and try to counter attack.
This was the story of the game throughout as the Foxes had the lion's share of position and territory, and, on a day when nearly every shot found its way into the net, left with a slightly flattering scoreline.
The customary Zoe hat trick was supplemented by 2 goals from Sim, including a trademark volley from a corner, a fine run and strike from Em, a well taken rebound from Mara, and a shot from distance from Molly.
With Rhiannon desperate to join in the goal fest, defensive marshalling was left to Amelia and Ella W, with Betty called on a couple of times to deal with breakaway runs.
With Lulu and Lauren providing some great distribution in the middle of the pitch, this was a really impressive performance, with fantastic contributions from all the girls.

So a great run out after a break, and a good confidence builder ahead of next weeks clash with Wotton.

Captain of the week: Lauren (who else!)

Girl of the Game: Molly

As most of the action shots of the game left a lot to be desired, this week is selfie week on the photo front!

BSYL Yr 10 - Foxes 3 - 1 Ashley Down, 07/11/15


On a wild and windy day the Foxes went back to joint-top of the table with a hard fought win over Ashley Down.

We were delighted that the game was at home and on the 3G at St Bedes, which as always played perfectly. The swirling wind, however, made conditions tricky for both sides.

The Foxes benefitted from keeping the ball on the floor and where well worth their 3-0 lead at half time, although perhaps we should have scored more based on our dominance. The three goals resulted from great team work, with Joe involved in all and assists by Harri, Henry and Ollie C being finished by Omar and Jack.

The second half was much more scrappy as the rain got heavier and Ashley Down created more chances than in the first 40 minutes, scoring a well worked goal and Owen making two fine saves. The Foxes had their own chances but failed to add to their tally, something we need to work on in training.


Coaches' man of the match - Joe.
Players' Player - Owen

BSYL Yr 10 -Wickwar 5 - 4 Foxes, 17/10/15

Wickwar Wanderers came out on top by a single goal in nine in an enthralling match on Saturday against Westbury Park Foxes.

The two sides, playing with contrasting styles, swapped the lead throughout and the result was in doubt until the final whistle. Wickwar took a 3-1 lead into half time but the Foxes pulled level at 3-3 and hit the post or bar on at least four occasions.

The home side scored two more before the Foxes narrowed the gap again. The Foxes goals came from Omar, with three, and Joe.

At 5-4 the game could easily ended with the points shared but Wickwar held out, although it was very close with the photos showing a late incident where, just perhaps, the decision should have gone the Foxes way.




Monday 19 October 2015

BSYL U9s Autumn Trophy Final - Year 4 Foxes Strike Gold



The BSYL U9s Autumn Trophy Final pitted us against a Shire Colts team who had stormed through their group, scoring goals galore in securing three wins from three.   In contrast, after a promising away win by the Weston Super Mare seaside, the Foxes had relied upon a last minute equaliser direct from a corner to secure their place in this showpiece event.  Its fair to say that the boys travelled more in hope than expectation although the coaches were quietly confident.


After losing the toss, Foxes kicked off downhill but were soon undone by a superb Shire move with the ball behind clinically despatched at the back post past a helpless Charlie.   For a moment it appeared that the boys might be out of their depth but roared on by a large Foxes support, they gradually gained a foothold.   As the half progressed, the tide changed and soon it was Foxes rolling down the hill and creating chance after chance.   Monty and Morgan were keeping the defence organised and with Elliot driving forward, shots by Eden, Matt and Omar flew wide or were well saved.  However, it took a moment of bravery by Cosmo coming off the line, to keep us in the game as we were caught on the counter. 


As the half drew to a close, Foxes gained their deserved equaliser when the lively Omar wriggled between two defenders on the edge of the box and poked the ball past the oncoming goalkeeper into the net.


Needing to play up the slope in the second half, the half time team talk was about discipline and belief and the boys went back out and straight back on the attack.   Soon the ball was being passed around (yes, you've read that correctly) and came back to Eden on the edge of the box.  Captain for the day, Eden crashed a shot over the Shire keeper and into the roof of the net to give us the lead.


The final fifteen minutes were a lesson to us all.   Rather than taking confidence from their lead, the situation seemed to overwhelm our boys.  Four years of "mark up" and "goal side" went out the window and the boys pressed the panic button, chasing the ball in packs like they were back in reception again.


Encouragement (ok, let's be honest, yelling from the coaches and parents) reminded the boys to get back in defence as Shire laid siege to our goal.  Tremendous midfield work by Elliot in support of lone-striker Cos helped ease the blood pressure on the side-lines but soon Morgan, Ambrose and Jacob were needing to tackle and chase to keep the lead intact.  Special mention to Ambrose who defended like a giant against Shire's striker who played so far forward he was almost standing on our goalkeeper's toes.


Great saves from Omar, a crazy goal mouth scramble when one Shire Colt was shut out by four Foxes on the goal-line, a shot wide, a shot against the post and a header against the bar made the last few minutes tricky for the watching faithful but finally the ref put his whistle to his mouth and the gold medals were ours!


Well done to the Shire boys who deserved an equaliser for their second half efforts and on another day would have got at least that.  But this was the Foxes day.


1-0 down, 2-1 up, Year 4 Foxes had won the cup!

Thursday 15 October 2015

BGL u13 Westbury Park Foxes 4 v 1 Portishead Juniors

Foxes Fire Four Past Defending Champions!

Following a hectic weekend of football, with coaches returning from the successful 'Silver Foxes' tour to Sligo, the final weekend game saw the top two teams from last season go head to head for the first time.
With a full squad to pick from the plan was to put as much pace as possible into the side to counter the quick striker, and to play with the level of intensity required to close down the midfield.

The Foxes were quickly into their game, with the midfield pressing, and Sim, surrounded by defenders up front using her skills off the ball to open channels for the midfield.

Portishead were not to be shackled and soon got in behind for a shot that Betty dealt with well. This served to remind Emily and Milly T of their defensive duties, and it was to be the only real attempt that the away side could muster in a first half that went back and forth, but with only one side really looking threatening.

All square at the break, and a confident team talk from the Foxes No 2 Mark, sent the girls back out scenting victory.

The Foxes didn't have to wait long for the break through, although it came in bizarre circumstance, as a Zoe strike headed over the goal line only to be caught 2 handed by a Portishead defender.

 Penalty, the decision, as the referee sensibly decided not to impose the automatic card! Up stepped Zoe to smash home the first of another fantastic hat trick.

The second, a sublime shot into the bottom corner was followed by a run through the opposition and shot from the edge of the box that proved unstoppable!

The forth was a fine strike from Sim that was just reward for the selfless work she had done chasing down the ball and moving the defence around.

For a second week the Foxes conceded at the death as a mix up in communication between defender and keeper allowed the opposition striker to steal the ball and slot home.

So a fantastic win against a strong side that propels the Foxes back into the buffet places!
Well done Girls!

Captain of the week: Millie T

Girl of the Game: Zoe




BGL u13 Longwell Green White 1 v 4 Westbury Park Foxes

Girls Win Away!

Following a fine performance against Bradley Stoke and Boco Red the Foxes arrived in the sunshine at Longwell Green to take on the Whites.

With Rhiannon away, Ella W slotted into the back line, as the Foxes kicked off up the slope.
The prematch focus had been on maintaining the drive and pressure that had been a feature of the two previous outings.

Unfortunately, after a couple of well taken goals, from Mara and Zoe, the girls thought that the game was already won, and started to back off and surrender easy possession to the opposition, who were eager to use their pace on the wing to try to get behind the defence.

A third Foxes goal for Zoe, from a great Ella cross, before half time put the result beyond doubt, but at the break the girls were reminded to keep pressing their opponents. With this in mind Millie B and Molly were sent on to counter the Whites quick winger.

Despite having most of the possession the Foxes were unable to make further progress, until Emily took matters into her own hand with a goal of the season candidate, picking up the ball from her own penalty area, before running the length of the pitch, through the defence to smash past the keeper!

With the game heading into the dying seconds the Whites snatched a fantastic consolation, when the ball was struck from outside the box, near the touchline, and curled over Betty's back peddling reach to go in off the far post!

So 4-1 and a comfortable win. More intensity will be needed next week as league champions Portishead visit BAWA!

Captain of the Week: Ella W

Girl of the Game: Emily T

PS sorry the photographer was away........

Sunday 4 October 2015

BSYL Year 10 - Thornbury Colts 0 - 21 Foxes. 03/10/15

For the second week running the Foxes headed north. This time, and on the same lovely playing surface, to take on Thornbury Colts. The Colts are an u14s side that has joined the BSYL this season and have so far found the going progressively tough. This game was no exception, despite efforts from the Foxes to ensure all of the squad got to play in 'unfamiliar' positions and had a chance in front of goal.  .

Danny, Ed, Nick and Harri all started on the bench and after Omar had scored a hatrick in the first minutes he did not reappear until the last 15 minutes at right back. Alec was given the chance to leave defending to others and grabbed his first 11 a-side goal after in the side's four seasons of playing it, Owen came out of goal (with Ollie C filling in) and also scored. 

A comprehensive win, that took the Foxes to the top of the table, against a side that battled to the end.

Ollie C was voted player's player and Dom Riley, after a string of great performances this season, the coaches' player.

Wednesday 30 September 2015

BSYL - Year 10. Thornbury Town Youth 1 - 9 Foxes. 26/09/15

A gorgeous sunny morning and a lovely playing surface in Thornbury proved to be the perfect backdrop for a great display from the Foxes. With injuries (Sam's ankle and Harri's shoulder) and other commitments taking their toll on the squad, added to the fact that Thornbury had inflicted a heavy defeat on the away side last season, the game promised to offer a real threat to the Foxes promising start to the league season. As it transpired the Foxes dominated the game from start to finish, mixing high quality passing with great discipline and great finishing.

From the first whistle, the Foxes kept the ball on the floor and look to work gaps in the opposition's formation. With Sam missing, Jack dropped inside alongside Joe and the pair provided a great rhythm for the side. Omar's work rate and vision caused constant problems and Ed and Dom provided a real threat on the flanks. It was Danny who broke the deficit after 15 mins, finishing a great team move and he doubled the lead 5 mins later. In between, and after, the Thornbury keeper made a succession of very good saves which kept his side in touch. This proved important as the home side took their first real chance to bring the score to 1-2 and to raise their hopes. For 10 mins or so the game became a real contest and showed what could have been if the Foxes had not been in such good form. A switch on the left saw Henry enter the fray and restore the lead with a fine, driving run and crisp finish.

1-3 at half time.

The half time talk was pretty straightforward, focusing on more of the same and the importance of the next goal. The team responded brilliantly and within 5 mins Omar had increased the lead. Impressively, the Foxes retained their intensity and further goals followed with Henry and Danny completing their hatricks, Ollie S and Jack, with the keeper making further good saves.

A clean sheet in the second-half was equally impressive, although Thornbury should have made more of a penalty awarded for a push in the box. Once again Owen, Fin, Alec, Dom, Nick and Tom provided the basis for the play ahead of them.

The icing on the cake were the ref's highly complimentary comments about the quality of the performance.

Man of the match - Jack. A captain's performance in a new role - capped with a goal! 



      

Monday 28 September 2015

BGL u13 Westbury Park Foxes 6 v 0 Bradley Stoke Youth

Foxes Turn on the Style!


The organisers of the BAWA computer fair must have been rubbing their hands in glee as the car park filled up. Sadly for them the record crowd, (over 50),had arrived for the North Bristol Classico, and the only 'hard drives' that they cared about would be provided by the dominant Foxes midfield!

With Graham on his bike, the Foxes called on Mark to assist, and promoted Daisy, fresh from a 320 mile away game, to the coaching staff to put the girls through the warm up!
With Amelia and Ella W away, Milly T dropped into the back line, and the Foxes kicked off into the sunshine.

The opposition had clearly set up to try to dominate the midfield, but after a couple of early probing runs the Foxes forced an corner. Lulu's perfect delivery was smashed in on the volley as Sim lost her marker with ease. 3 minutes gone and the nerves were settled. 

Another corner was rapidly won, another fantastic delivery and the away keeper could only clear the ball to Ella who returned it with interest to double the lead.
The away side changed formation and pushed Keira Beck into a more orthodox role upfront. She was marked out of the game by Emily, aside from one run that Betty was quickly out to deal with. From the corner Stoke were awarded a free kick on the D but the wall stood firm with Emily heading the ball over the crossbar.
Lulu holds them off!
That was to be the away teams only chance of the game as the traffic became all one way. Sim went close with a vicious strike from range that hit the bar, before the impressive Zoe Jones strode through the defence to calmly slot home the first of her hat trick.

So 3-0 at the break. The team talk was all about teams coming back from 3-0 down (us!) and the need to stay calm. The away team would have to attack, and we knew that there would be chances on the break.

The second half was only 6 minute in when Zoe again sprang the offside line to smash home a second, and then 4 minutes later a brilliant solo effort completed her 3rd hat trick of the season! She could quite legitimately have claimed the match ball had I not spent £14:99 on it only 4 days before!
More trickery from Lauren!
With Sim and Zoe on the bench it was left to others to shine as Lauren led the line and was unlucky with a couple of strikes, before winning a corner that led to Ella grabbing her second to complete the rout. 

So another great team performance. The girls are adapting well to the new system, and have now gone 2 hours without conceding a goal, and limiting the opposition to minimal chances. We must work on continuing to be strong, but the way that the girls are able to slot seamlessly into the system we are playing bodes well for the future.


Captain of the Week: Emily H
Girl of the Game: Milly T
Another fantastic corner!

Friday 25 September 2015

BSYL Year 10 - Shire 2 - 8 Foxes. 19/09/15


The Foxes made it two out of two in the League with a win over a tenacious Shire side.

Making the most of the slope the Foxes had a significant lead at halftime with goals from Omar, Henry (on his debut for the club), Danny, Dom Robbins and Ollie S. Shire came out strongly in the second half and matched the Foxes who were forced to make a change in goal as the injured Owen was replaced by Sonny.

 The Foxes second half goals were scored by Henry and Dom Robbins to cap another encouraging performance. 

Henry was voted the player's player after an impressive start to his Foxes' career and Alec was coaches' man of the match for a commanding performance at centre back. 

BSYL Year 10 - Foxes 10 - 0 Rockleaze, 12/09/15


The Foxes had a comfortable start to the season with an impressive win over their local rivals. Debuts were handed to Dom and Finlay who have already become key members of an increasingly strong squad. 

The away side's keeper limited the lead to 4-0 at half time with a string of good saves, with the Foxes goals coming from Omar (3) and a beautiful finish from new captain Jack.

The Foxes continued to keep their focus in the second half adding a further six, with further goals for Omar  and Jack before Danny and Ollie also got in on the act.

The Foxes player's player was Omar, and the coaches man of the match was Sam for an exceptional all round performance.   

BSYL Year 9 - Foxes 1- 3 Wickwar. 28/03/15

Another catch-up post from last season.

After the disappointment of the semi-final defeat from the week before, the Foxes faced the same opponents in a game that meant more to the Wickwar as the home side could finish no higher than third, irrespective of the result.

The Foxes fielded a side featuring members of the squad who had not been selected for the semi final but played with a familiar style and a strong sense of team work. Once again there was not much between the sides, although this week Wickwar had the slight edge and took a two goal lead. A great free kick from Sam reduced the deficit and the away side came under increasing pressure in the last quarter. A breakaway goal killed, what ended being the Foxes last game of the season as Deeerwsood did not fulfil the fixture the following week.

BSYL Cup Semi Final Year 9 - Foxes 2 - 2 Wickwar (4-5 pens). 21/03/15


A late post from the end of last season.

A game that would have graced the Cup Final was decided with the last penalty of the 10 taken as Wickwar, having been 2-0 down with ten minutes of normal time to go, beat the reigning cup holders.

The game played in sunshine and on the perfect surface at St Bedes started in a tense fashion but gradually the Foxes started to exert their dominance. After 15 minutes a great corner from Danny was headed by Tom  on to the Wickwar bar. The Foxes controlled midfield and played their usual neat passing game, with Wickwar looking to take every opportunity to move the ball forward fast to their three strikers. Other half chances came and went for the home side but the first half ended 0-0.

The second half saw the Foxes take control as Omar scored two, as well as hitting the post. The Foxes carried a constant threat and Wickwar were struggling to stay in the game. To their great credit the away side never gave up and with 10 minutes to go the ball somehow found it's way to an unmarked Wickwar player in the Foxes' box who reduced the deficit. The last ten minutes became increasing tense as Wickwar pushed for an equaliser and in the last minute a corner was scrambled home to the away supports jubilation.
 
The 10 minutes of extra time saw the Foxes create the best chances but some brave defending by Wickwar kept the score level. And so to the dreaded penalties. The quality of both sides spot-kicks was of the highest order, with the closet a keeper coming to a save was when Owen just failed to push Wickwar's 4th penalty over the bar. On such small margins games are decided and when the Foxes fifth penalty hit the post the holders were out.   

Monday 21 September 2015

AEK Boco Red u13 Girls 0 v 3 Westbury Park Foxes u13 Girls

Bad is the new Good!

After an uncharacteristic performance a week ago, the Foxes spent their training time this week on a change of attitude as they got to grips with the reality of competative football, starting with heading practice and moving on to defending the set pieces that had proved so decisive a week ago.
Too often the 'nice' team of the BGL, the focus changed to combativeness, assertiveness and improved communication, all of which would be required in spades against Boco Red, a big physical team that had taken points from Portishead a week ago.


With Rhiannon away, the Foxes opted on a formation change, with Ella W joining the back line. With Sim restored at the front, Lauren returned to left midfield with a plan to rapidly rotate the attack on a huge pitch.


What followed was one of the finest Foxes performances we have witnessed. 
Emily charges forward


Betty commanded the box and launched the ball into the opposition half, the back line held against anything thrown at it and the midfield ran the opposition ragged, while up front Sim threatened with genuine pace.

All over the park the Foxes bullied their bigger opposition, flying into tackles and recycling the ball effectively.
The goals came, firstly a Reds defensive mix up, under pressure from Sim, which saw the defender turn the ball into her own net. This was rapidly followed by a low strike by the pacy forward  into the corner. In the second half Mara was upended in the box whilst through on goal to enable Sim to lash home from the spot.
Penalty!

So a memorable performance and one that will need to be maintained to get the season back on track, starting with the North Bristol Classico next weekend.
Neither coach was able to pick an individual performance for girl of the game this week such was the contribution from all 11 girls, although Ella B should get a special mention for her improving photography skills!
Lauren strikes from distance

Saturday 12 September 2015

Downend Flyers u13 0 v 12 Westbury Park Foxes u13 Girls


Foxes open strongly at Downend to top table

The Foxes U13 Girls started the new BGL season confidently with a convincing away win at Downend. The home side battled hard, played fair, had several skilful moments and never once let their heads drop. Ultimately, however, they could not contain the Foxes' formidable firepower, slick passing and pace down the flanks.
All of the new additions to the squad, having made their debuts in the glittering summer tournament season earlier this year, fitted seamlessly into the 9-a-side game. Lauren proved a dangerous and tricky raider on the left side, and her debut Foxes' league goal was a just reward. Millie T likewise got on the score sheet and displayed her impressive speed throughout. Emily was not greatly troubled in defence in the first half but took the opportunity to make her trademark powerful runs from deep.  And Zoe's power and tenacity just proved too much for the Downend defence, resulting in a rare but thoroughly deserved double hattrick. Does she get to keep two match balls for that?
Elsewhere the squad 'veterans' showed no signs of summer rustiness. The mighty minis on the wings, Ella and Mara, went through their whole repertoire of dribbles, tricks and runs to give the full backs a tough afternoon. Both added their names to the score sheet from close range, with the pick of the goals being Mara's volleyed second after a slick Lulu-initiated passing move down the right. Rhiannon was back with her 'ghosty' runs, assists for goals, and a rare but welcome goal from a long range 'speculator' into the top of the net. Molly and Amelia always looked confident and assured in the tackle and on the ball, and never really let their opponents get past them or have a sight of goal.
Special mentions to keepers (for a half each) Lulu and Emily for their patience and vigilance, even when there wasn't too much action at their end. Lulu did manage to spot an interesting butterfly at one point. Commiserations must go to the tireless but unlucky Sim. Sometimes the ball went wide, sometimes over the top. Several times the brave Downend keeper denied her, on one occasion tipping a shot onto the bar then calmly catching the rebound. It just would not go in. Better luck next time, Sim - some poor team are going to suffer when you rediscover your scoring boots.

Overall, a very enjoyable afternoon in the sunshine for the Foxes, on an excellent pitch, against friendly and sporting hosts for whom easier and better days will surely lie ahead.
Captain of the week: Emily
Girl of the Game: it has to be "six shooter" Zoe

Tuesday 7 July 2015


Storming Foxes So Close to Welsh Upset

Under 12 girls runners-up at Vale Ladies FC Tournament



Inspired by England's Lionesses, an eight-girl Foxes squad made their first foray into international competition..over the bridge to the Vale Ladies FC tournament in Barry. Welcome last minute recruits Molly and Mara joined Lulu, Rhiannon, Amelia, Ella B, Emily H and (in her final competitive Foxes outing!) Daisy A.

With blue skies, sunshine and an incredible 15 teams taking part, everything looked set fair for an exciting day. The coaches had repeatedly emphasised the importance of the swift start in tournament football. Get there in good time. Come out of the blocks quickly. Score early. Don't draw the opener 0-0.

Well, one out of four wasn't bad. With half the squad facing parking difficulties and arriving 10 minutes before kick off against the mighty Vale Girls Dragons - unbeaten champions of South Wales and tournament hosts - the Foxes effortlessly avoided a goalless draw. Insufficiently tight coverage of the hosts' lethal strike force led to the concession of four goals, two in each half. It was a record club defeat in any competitive game, and the worst possible start. But in the words of the 80s pop hit blaring out of the PA system, The Only Way (was) Up...

With Amelia in goal, and Daisy thrown forward as lone striker, it was an unconventional Foxes line-up which took time to gel. But game by game, it did. First Port Talbot Pumas were edged 1-0 when the Foxes began to string their passes together to feed Daisy, who blasted home from close range. The mighty minis Mara and Ella B were beginning to beat players down the wings. Rhiannon and Emily H established a rapport in defence and took turns to rampage forward. By the time they took the lead against Llantwit Fardre, with more neat passing and a Daisy finish, everything and everyone was clicking into place. And then.....

First the sun went away. Then the skies darkened. A tornado-like pillar of dark cloud moved in off the Severn.  Strange, swirling winds blew plastic cups and programmes across the ground. The seagulls had seen enough and flocked to ground. Then came the gale, deluge and lightning. Despite the simultaneous efforts of five adults, it was too late to save "Big Gaz" the Gazebo, who sustained a tragic career-ending clean break after just a few weeks of service. Meanwhile on the pitch, the girls closed out another 1-0 win and everyone dashed for the cover of campervan and clubhouse as play was suspended.

Staying dry and taking on sustenance the way elite athletes do - with Amelia and Dave's chips and curry sauce a particular highlight - the Foxes were back on the pitch an hour later in a 'must win' game against Port Talbot B. When Daisy was sent flying in the box, Lulu's blasted penalty was parried by the keeper. But time, and most of the players, seemed to stand still as Mara netted the winning rebound.

After literally minutes of deliberations, it emerged that the Foxes were still alive, despite their initial 4-0 gubbing and negative goal difference. As best runners-up, they would join the three group winners in the semi-finals. Next up were the very useful and powerful Vale Girls "Caerau" team (Welsh for "fort"). By now, the whole team were tackling, running and passing with impressive fluidity, with the neat passing triangles of Lulu, Mara and Daisy causing panic, Molly snuffing out through balls in midfield and Amelia now settled in comfortably between the sticks. Sadly, after an injury from a hefty challenge, the brave Ella B's tournament was over, so the Foxes were down to seven with no more subs. On the pitch, Daisy was sent in twice, once by some neat interplay down the wing, then by a carefully placed strategic long pass (not a 'long ball') from Lulu, for a 2-0 win. Incredibly, the Foxes were in another final.

The hosts must have been fancying their chances, and licking their chops, when they learned that their final opponents would be the 4-0 whipping girls from 10 o'clock that morning. They hadn't lost a game or conceded a goal in the tournament. And it was their home patch, although the pitch for the final did look as if it had hosted a local dairy herd for some (very) light grazing.


What a difference a few hours, a lightning storm, a lunch break and some confidence makes. Vale's only sight of goal in the whole match came in the 2nd minute, when a miscued goal kick was returned with interest for them to take the lead. After that, there was only one team in it, as an inspired Foxes side passed and dribbled around their distinguished opponents. Emily H frequently broke from defence, once beating four players down the left wing. The best move of the game sent Daisy in, to rifle a shot towards the bottom right corner...only to see the brilliant Vale keeper palm it around the post. The pressure continued, even after the teams changed ends and the Foxes kicked up the slope. Reward came when a Mara header was parried by raised arms and a penalty was awarded. Lulu's strike was stupendous but rattled the crossbar, and her follow-up was pushed agonisingly wide of the post. The pressure and chances continued, including a late shout for another handball in the box, but it was not to be.

Vale Dragons had won their own tournament, as they probably expected at the outset, and deserved overall on the day - but they had been given an almighty scare from across the Severn. It would not be four tournament wins in a row for the Foxes, but a smart runners-up plate, ice creams and trophies all round were a good reward for some of their best football of the season. This was  a tournament of the very highest standard. "Byddwn yn dychwelyd", as they say in these parts. We shall return....
 

Captain of the tournament: Amelia
 
Girl of the tournament: Daisy, leaving for pastures new but always a Fox and friend.