South Reading Vixens

With a complete absence of girls competitions at this level, we decided to have a go at a Boys "B" tournament. We hoped to come up against other teams just starting out, but the luck of the draw gave us four experienced opponents who had already been playing for a couple of seasons.

This made it very difficult for the girls, who defended with great determination throughout. However, the gulf in strength and experience was apparent and it highlighted the many areas on which we will need to work if we are to reach our full potential.

In the first match the girls seemed overawed by the day, and the score would have been higher if Keana had not made several brave saves. There was a big improvement in the second game as the girls settled, but against strong opposition the result was never in doubt. Chelsea almost scored after a great run from midfield, but good defending from the boys meant that she could not get the final touch. Courtney H was really getting stuck in in defence with some strong well-timed tackles, and continued to impress throughout the day.

The third game came and went, another big defeat, but the girls kept their heads up the whole time and never gave up. As the last match approached, our opponents were eyeing us hungrily and looking for a big score. A 4-0 result gave them the points but it was a moral victory for the girls, and it was the Cubs who came off the pitch with smiles on their faces.

Despite the results, the girls thoroughly enjoyed the day. It was a well run tournament and the good humoured referees ensured that the games were played in an excellent spirit. All the girls have their first medals, and have gained valuable experience from the faster, more organised and more physical football played by the boys. The ice cream van did a roaring trade and everyone went home happy.

The Cubs Player of the Tournament was Courtney H, for her outstanding work in defence.

Squad: Keana, Jordina, Squeak, Courtney H, Georgia, Maya, Chelsea