This weekend saw Wigton complete their League season. The girls knew that a victory away at Altofts would be enough to see them win the West Riding Girls League 11 a side League. Although, Altofts have struggled this season, the girls were not taking anything for granted. In the early minutes, Altofts matched Wigton for determination and it looked like a hard game might be in prospect.

However, as the half progressed Wigton got into gear, causing Altofts problems down both flanks and making a series of excellent crosses. Lots of chances were created and despite some excellent saves by the Altofts keeper, who genuinely had a very good game, Wigton went into a 5 – 0 lead with about 25 minutes played. Altofts then pulled one back, a very well struck penalty, after Sophie was very harshly adjudged to have handled intentionally. Wigton had time to add another, with Rene having a spell up front scoring her first ever (non gala) goal  this even brought a cheer from the coach !  Half time – Altofts 1 v  6 Wigton.

 

At half time the girls were asked to relax, enjoy themselves and to try to raise the tempo. This they did to no little effect. It seemed that no matter where the ball was won, Wigton burst forward in numbers –  moving and linking up well and always backing up if need be. I was delighted that now with the wind at our backs, I only counted one overhit ball going straight through to the keeper. The delivery of  numerous corners by Eleanor was excellent as was the  running in from the edge of the box by everyone. We varied throws really well today – there was lots of movement, and good space creation and awareness shown by the throwers (though do remember a girl coming very close to a thrower is probably trying to create space behind her – it is a foul throw if the ball is simply dropped at her feet).

Of the many  chances created there were a number of near misses, but I think our finishing was very good on the whole and lots of goals were scored in the second half. It is likely that the scorers were Ellie S 5, Kelsey 5, Jasmin 3, Olivia 1 and Rene 1. However, the Altofts coach thought the final score was 14 – and there’s no need to quibble. Final score Altofts 1 v Wigton 14 or 15.

What an excellent finish to a super league campaign. You have been extremely consistent girls – winning 12 and drawing 2. You have needed to be, as an excellent Huddersfield Town side have chased  us all the way – the character you showed in the last 20 minutes in our second meeting, proved decisive. Many congratulations on a notable achievement – all the girls in the squad have played an important part in this. This is the teams third title in 3 years. We  now have the cup semi against Norristhorpe  on Sunday March 17^th to look forward to.

Coaches comments

Eva – you really looked the part in goal today – you kicked really well from your hands and patrolled the edge of your box in an expansive manner ! Thought you played very well in defence as well – some super passing.

Rene – the epitome of versatility – left back , goalscoring center forward, keeper – is there anything this girl can’t do ?

Juliet – great decision making, good distribution and the usual assured cover for those around you. Your presence must be a great boost to the rest of the team.

Louise – another very strong game. You always give it your all – you have learned so much since the start of the season !

Sarah – you are still working hard at your game. Made some good passes from right back. I realise you were still recovering from millions of different activities at Center Parks.

Molly – better positioning this week. Your first touch and passing are continuing to improve. You are benefitting from putting a lot of effort into your football. Well done.

Charlotte – another  really good game. Proved that you can do  very well at left midfield as well as left back.Nice to see you listen to guidance on throws. Try to stay calm when a goalscoring chance presents itself !

Olivia – thought you were outstanding today.You saw lots of the ball and made the most of it. You must be a nightmare to mark in your current form !

 

Jasmin – some great touches.You carried a lot of goalscoring threat today and really crossed the ball well – getting your foot round everything.

Eleanor – usual reading of the game, getting in the right position (both when Wigton and opponents have the ball), super passing  and corner taking. Another dimension, would be overlapping your right midfielder –try to find the legs for this.

Sophie – a really hard working and vital game. You attacked and won loads of balls so we dominated in the middle, surged forward and were a real handful. Well played.

Kelsey – lots of intelligence and great skills. You are hanging a lot more on the shoulder of the last defender and finishing clinically with both feet. Superb performance !

Ellie S – continuing your rich vein of goalscoring form. You were always available when we broke  and you showed high quality finishing ... and you didn’t pass it when you should have shot.