Wow what a performance! The girls put in an amazing shift against top quality opposition that we made look pretty ordinary. From the first whistle we were on top, dominating possession and spending most of the time in AFC Reading's half. This was the best team performance I have seen from the girls, we held our shape well and moved the ball around really nicely.
We were unlucky to go 1-0 down on 18 minutes when the ball squirreled under Rose's foot, totally understandable considering the conditions. This was the first and pretty much only attack that Reading could muster in the first half and was completely against the run of play.

The second half continued in much the same vein with us bossing the game, but struggling to get that final pass or shot away. The ball ended up in the back of their net early in the second half with a great finish from Izzy, only to be (correctly) ruled offside. With 10 minutes to go a great break down the left wing from Millie followed by a pinpoint cross to an onrushing Izzy saw us score again. Izzy controlled the cross well and finished coolly into the back of the net. Again the linesman flagged for offside and the ref agreed, but this was much more contentious. From where we were it looked like Millie had passed backwards to Izzy and I think we were really unlucky for the goal not to stand.

The girls never gave up though we had to make numerous changes as the girls were picking up knocks from all the effort they were putting in, with Abigail and Frances filling in, in various positions as the game progressed. As we pushed for the equaliser Reading had a a couple of chances themselves with Rose making some great saves and a MIM worthy goal line save and dribble to safety from Sophia.

POM went to Izzy who worked tirelessly in both midfield and up front, showing great composure on the ball, some great skills and fantastic passing. Honourable mentions to Millie, Sophia, Sienna and Neve who were also amazing but to be honest every single girl gave a 100% and deserved recognition.

So proud of the girls today, we are playing some amazing football and just missing putting it in the back of the net, but it will come!! We have proven time and time again that we can mix it with the best and I'm sure we will starting bagging the results our performances have warranted. Well done girls !!