The Wigton U 12 United girls took on Huddersfield Town in the WRGFL Cup Final at Ossett Town’s ground. Both teams were unbeaten in competitive football this season, so a very interesting encounter was to be expected. The bouncy pitch made good football a little more difficult to play, though not impossible.

Possession  was evenly shared over the first few minutes with both sides feeling themselves into the game. However, Wigton did make some early inroads on the right, and from one of these Ellie S hooked a high cross over the Town keeper and Charlotte had gambled and was well placed to head the ball home from close range as it bounced in the six yard box.

Both teams continued to share the possession and the territory. However, in the main, the centre backs of Louise and Juliet and the central midfield pairing of Eleanor and Sophie were snuffing out the threat from Town’s direct  forwards and very strong middle midfielders. It was pleasing to see the girls follow advice about  meeting  the ball before it could bounce and also about where to and where not to put the ball.

Having nullified Town’s main threats, Wigton were able to attack with purpose both down the right with Olivia, down the left with Jasmin and “up top” with Kelsey and Ellie S. Several good chances were created, but shots either went wide or Town’s keeper saved well. Half time Wigton 1  - 0 .

The second half saw Wigton generally in charge, but having to concentrate hard so that Huddersfield were not allowed any openings. Several good chances were created – however, once again, shots either flew wide or Town’s keeper was able to distinguish herself , especially through  showing real bravery in making fine saves  after coming off her line. However, with 12 minutes remaining, Eleanor won the ball and passed square to Sophie just inside the box and she steered her shot  well into the gap between the keeper and her near post.

To their credit, Huddersfield responded in positive fashion and forced Eva into a smart near post save. Finally, two minutes from full time, their contribution to the game was rewarded when a mistimed challenge in the Wigton box resulted in a penalty. The well struck shot was almost stopped by Eva who made a superb effort diving full length and getting both hands to the ball, but the shot’s power took it in. Full time Wigton 2 v 1 Huddersfield.

All in all, this was not a classic game, but given the nature of the pitch and  the importance of the occasion, both sides did produce lots of good all round football. On this particular occasion, I felt Wigton came out on top in the key “battles” and this allowed them to exert a good degree of control over the game. The game was officiated very well and played in a first class spirit – there  is a real respect between these two sets of girls.

Keeper –  Eva; Defence - Molly, Rene, Juliet, Louise, Sarah, Charlotte; Midfield – Eleanor, Sophie, Olivia, Jasmin, Forwards – Kelsey, Ellie S.

Girls, your hard work and willingness to listen to advice and to play for the team has been rewarded. It is a fine achievement to win both the cup and league in successive years. Keep on enjoying it !

After long reflection, I have decided that we will have a permanent captain and vice captain next season. Louise will be the captain and Eleanor the vice captain. Louise has progressed dramatically this season,  she is a real team player,  and as a centre back, ideally placed to be skipper. These two players will be expected to show leadership, but  all players should be vocal.