13th March 2018
On Sunday (11/3/18) Cheltenham Town Ladies Youth travelled to GFA Headquarters at Almondsbury to participate in the GFA U15 County Cup Tournament, this year it was run as a round robin tournament with the top two going into the final. All games were played 30 mins one way.
TEAMS
Bradley Stoke, Cheltenham Town, Emerson Green and Westbury Park Foxes
Game #1 v Westbury Park Foxes 3-1 win
A quick paced game which was played end to end, some great defending displayed which was supported by midfield, we lost our shape towards the end of the game Westbury Park Foxes took advantage of this and put us under lots of pressure but it was not enough to turn the game in their favour.
Goals scored: Beth 1, Courtney 2
Game #2 v Bradley Stoke 0-0 draw
We had several opportunities to convert corners and also a free kick, being braver and gambling more in the box could have resulted in a win. Both teams battled well.
Game #3 v Emerson Green2-0 win
We went into this game knowing that we needed 1 point to secure a place in the final against Westbury Park Foxes who had already won their place. All of the girls showed lots of confidence and went out for the win. Emerson Green defended well but were not strong enough to stop us from scoring 2 goals, both coming from some great controlled passing using the width of the pitch. An injured Referee had to be replaced during this game!
Goals scored: Courtney 2
Final v Westbury Park Foxes 0-0 draw
The final was played in a more competitive manner with both teams stepping up the pace. Westbury Park Foxes put lots of pressure on from the start, playing stronger than when we had met them earlier in the day. Both teams had several opportunities to score but these were quickly halted by great defending and determination by both. Westbury Park Foxes had control of the game for the last 5 mins many shots on goal being taken but great goal keeping by a very brave Grace kept the ball out of the net. The final whistle blew, both teams shake hands and wish each other good luck as we now have to face penalty shootout.
It was now up to the managers and players to decide who would take the penalties.
PENALTY TAKERS (in order)
Libby, Hannah G, Courtney, Anna S, Amie
The third penalty taken for Westbury Foxes was miskicked the ball going wide of the goal this played in our favour. Result 5-4 to Cheltenham Town.
MANAGER SIMON GALPIN’S THOUGHTS:
The tournament was well organised and well prepared, the quality of the officials was consistent. All of the matches were played in a fair manner, a little bit tense towards the end as expected, the team had performed well from start to end and really wanted the win. I feel very proud to be the manager of Cheltenham Town Ladies U16’s, I have a great bunch of girls who all bring their own qualities to make it a great team.
We are all now looking forward to returning to GFA Headquarters next Sunday to play in the U16’s County Cup against Bristol Ladies Union.
TODAYS TEAM
Hannah G (Capt)
Anna B
Amie
Hannah D
Ella
Emma
Courtney
Libby
Grace
Erin
Lily
Anna S
Olivia
Eloise
Beth
