Spalding Ladies 3s vs City of Peterborough 4s
One early Saturday morning, Spalding Ladies 3s traveled to play against City of Peterborough Ladies 4s. The Spalding team had a different lineup, utilizing the sweeper formation. Spalding was awarded the first push back and maintained possession initially. However, Peterborough quickly gained control of the ball and put pressure on the defenders, with MOM Poppy Hooker effectively stopping many attacks. After 10 minutes, Peterborough was awarded a short corner, and their strike on goal resulted in a penalty flick due to a Spalding foot. Peterborough scored, putting Spalding 1-0 down.
Spalding remained resilient and adhered to their training, maintaining wide passes. Despite this, Peterborough regained possession and, after a scramble in the D, scored their second goal, leaving Spalding 2-0 down.
Shortly before half-time, Peterborough converted another short corner, leading 3-0 at half time.
An encouraging half-time talk from manager Sally Pilgrim saw the Spalding Ladies 3s return to the field with renewed determination. Their youthful energy shone through against the more experienced but tiring Peterborough side. There were some beautiful passes between Kiki and Jessica Pilgrim down the right, but Peterborough managed to score once more, bringing the score to 4-0.
Spalding Ladies kept the pressure on Peterborough and were awarded a short corner. Khloe Brewster’s injection skills were utilized, and after a shot on goal by Sam Foston that put the goalkeeper on the floor, Spalding took full advantage. A pass from Jess Worth to a well-positioned Khloe Brewster resulted in a goal, making the score 4-1. This gave Spalding the momentum they needed, and they dominated much of the remaining game, but time was not on their side. The match ended with a 4-1 loss.
Next week, Spalding will play Cambridge South 5s at home, hoping to secure 3 points on their home turf.