South Reading Vixens

What a difference a couple of weeks can make. A fully fit and healthy Vixens squad arrived at Ropley raring to go, and took full advantage of the hosts impressive new pavilion – as did the parents, who watched the pre-match routine in warmth and comfort.

The Vixens pushed forward from the kick off, and won a first minute corner. Kelsey got her head to the ball, but saw it flash just the wrong side of the post. Ropley then battled back, and took an early lead with their first attack. A good flowing move resulted in an excellent cross from the right, and a close range finish gave stand-in keeper Malicia no chance. But just three minutes later the Vixens were back on level terms, as Jaye fired home from Kelsey’s corner. The game continued to swing back and forth, but both defences came out on top and there were no more goals before half time.

Mikala took over goalkeeping duties in the second half, and was soon called into action to make a fine save. The Vixens finally made the breakthrough at the other end when Charmaine’s pass set up Kelsey to fire home and put the girls in front for the first time. There were more chances at both ends, with Charmaine having a shot blocked on the line and then Jaye, Charmaine and Jessica all going close in a goalmouth scramble. But there was no further score, and the Vixens recorded their first win since early January.

Well done girls, it was your best performance for weeks and a great result against a strong team.

Squad: Malicia, Karis, Ashleigh, Charmaine, Felisha, Jessica, Mikala, Kelsey, Jaye

The Vixens player of the match was Malicia, who was an excellent first half keeper and then outstanding in defence.