South Reading Vixens

This was the first taste of Astroturf for the girls, and also a chance to check out the opposition in next season's new SCML girls league. Our first opponents were Reading Girls, and for seven and a half minutes we matched them. But with the final whistle in sight we failed to clear, and in the ensuing goalmouth scramble we managed to put the ball into our own net.

This disappointment was soon reversed in our next game. The smaller girls from Whitegrove Diamonds put in a battling performance, but the Vixens used their strength to run out comfortable winners. Goals from Georgia (2) and Ellie secured a 3-0 victory, assisted by good work from twins Laura and Lauren.

The girls were on a roll now. Next up were Whiteknights Gems, and Georgia's hat trick and Jessica's first ever goal produced a 4-0 scoreline. Then it was a repeat performance against new girls Burghfield who were playing in their first competitive matches. 4-0 again, with goals from Jessica, Georgia (2) and Jaye.

We went into our last group game top of the league, but only one point ahead of opponents Meadway Yellow. Defenders Emily and Karis were kept busy this time in a very even game. Meadway took the lead when the Vixens failed to mark properly at a corner and were made to pay the price. However, great determination from the whole team resulted in an equaliser from Georgia which secured second position in the group and a place in the semi final.

So here we were in the semis again, wondering if it was to be third time lucky and a place in the final. However, both defences came out on top in another very even game against Whiteknights Jewels. Ten minutes of play failed to produce a goal, and it was time for the dreaded penalties. Sadly it was the Vixens who lost, with goals from Georgia and Jaye not enough to put us through. So, semi finalists again, but one day we'll do it.

Congratulations are due to Georgia, whose outstanding play on the day won her the referees choice as player of the tournament and also attracted the attention of the Reading FC Academy scout.

Squad: Ellie, Emily, Karis, Laura, Lauren, Georgia, Jessica, Jaye

The Vixens player of the tournament was Jessica, who did everything asked of her and scored her first two goals for the team as well.

Results
v Reading Girls 0-1
v Whitegrove Diamonds 3-0 (Georgia (2), Ellie)
v Whiteknights Gems 4-0 (Georgia (3), Jessica)
v Burghfield 4-0 (Jessica, Georgia(2), Jaye)
v Meadway Yellow 1-1 (Georgia)
v Whiteknights Jewels 0-0 (Vixens lost penalty shootout 3-2)

Happy girls, proud coach

Photo by Phil Marsh of the SCML

See more pictures on the SCML website