The Foxes finished another strong league season with a battling draw against a committed and physically imposing Boco side. 2nd place in the League was secured by last month’s away win at Wotton, then confirmed when Portishead clinched the title with a 7-0 away win at Bradley Stoke.
The girls and their entourage travelled to a windswept and bumpy Page Park for the first time. Most, but not all, found it successfully and on time. With Martin on call, Graham away biking and coach Mark delayed, John and Christoph kindly took the reins, with Ewan persuaded out of his camping chair to be a linesman.
The high wind and fast surface made for challenging conditions, with particular danger from long balls and throw ins. The Foxes struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, despite having the wind at their back and the slight slope in their favour. Boco were breaking up most Foxes attacks and winning the second balls, although Sim and Lulu came close with long range shots. A slight defensive hesitation on a through ball then let Boco in to open the scoring midway through the half.
Things got tough for the Foxes as poor Mara limped off injured, although by this time Ella had arrived and could take her place. It got even tougher shortly afterwards, as close to half time Betty was injured making a typically brave 50:50 challenge at the feet of a striker. She had to leave the field in pain, leaving Lulu to don the magic gloves and silver shirt. That left the Foxes down to just 10 girls, with a Lulu-shaped gap in midfield.
Thankfully, in the second half the rest of the squad responded magnificently to the challenge. Daisy broke down the left, then turned and lofted a speculative shot into the wind. The opposition coach said (very generously) "that's in" as soon as it was struck, and he was right - top corner!
Young 'uns Millie, Ella W and Lily were all thrown into the fray for long periods, and battled their hearts out, sometimes tenaciously winning challenges against players who towered over them. Boco stepped up the pressure and forced a number of defensive clearances from through balls and well-taken set pieces, but the Foxes were equal to the task. Gradually, they began to get their passing game together, and threaten down the right wing with the mazy running of Rhiannon and Ella.
The Foxes withstood further Boco pressure, and a high number of corners (most of which were repelled by the head of Daisy), to force further chances in the final minutes, culminating in a brilliant through ball to Sim. She expertly rounded the keeper but was forced agonisingly wide of the goal. The whistle blew and it was a hard-earned but fair draw, with both teams reasonably happy. The Foxes then got even happier with the help of a) ice creams from the van at Page Park (thanks Martin!) and b) end of season pizza at Amici later on...
Girl of the game: Daisy (for her wonder goal, and many headers!)
Captain of the week: Lulu (and for taking over in goal)
