MATCH REPORT-5th DECEMBER 2004

LONG LANE RESERVES 11 VS 1 CLAPTON RESERVES

So off we went to face the Long Lane Reserves. An early kick-off against the second best team in the division convinced us to start the day with a feast of Cadbury Heroes.

Long Lane are a strong side and clearly expected to have it easy against us. Weren't they surprised by the first twenty minutes: Clapton Reserves had a very strong start, and right away put significant pressure on their defence. Our midfield merciless force: Hannah, Mooch and Harriet made sure that the ball stayed on the opposition side, while Jen B. was playing out of her skin winning most of her challenges. Claire and Estelle fought to create good chances.

But soon, Long Lane smelled the coffee and raised their game level. Although our defence showed great composure with Bucky, Niki M. and Jude fighting valiantly and courageously to keep the fort, and Maggsy playing as if she was the new sheriff in town, we conceded three quick goals with Long Lane strikers showing furious efficiency. Then Gel, fearing nobody but herself suffered a toe casualty after a brutal shock with a Long Lane forward. Mooch with no hesitation replaced her in our goal and Libby came in as a midfielder.

We conceded two other goals and started the second half with a score line that did not do justice to Clapton's accomplishment (but the Heroes we ate at half time and the comforting words of Phil brought back some joy to our hearts). After contributing to Clapton's good performance with her typical deadly penetrating runs, Claire was replaced by Lou who played in midfield while Libby showed some character up front. The great fitness level of Long Lane hurt us pretty bad as they kept on scoring using intelligent passing. However, around the 80th minute, Mooch passed the ball to Jen B. who gave it to Lou who made a lethal precise pass that enabled Estelle to trick the Long Lane keeper. It was a fierce battle and as always Clapton Reserves showed great spirit and commitment. And we always will!! SACRE BLEU!!!

Player of the Match: Jen B.

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