16/10/2021 will go down as a memorable date for many years to come in Pontefract Colls folklore. Whilst some will remember it as a momentous occasion for the first team heroics in the FA Cup 4th qualifying round in front of a record attendance at the Beechnut, putting on a fine display and earning a replay against National League outfit FC Halifax Town, those with a deeper involvement at the club will know a myriad of junior fixtures also showed the future is bright with all things Coll’s. At the forefront of this our under 11 girls did not disappoint!
Going into their 5th fixture of the season they faced the favourites to seal glory this season Amaranth Crossgates. However that crown was taken by our young Colls in magnificent style!
The format was similar to last week, a slow start that the Amaranth team with their pace and power took early advantage of, racing into an early 1-0 lead, however whereas in the past the Colls may have found it hard to recover from such a blow, the team this season are a new proposition.
Still not in top gear a good forward move found the ball break loose in the area with Lucie N finding the corner of the net. A scrappy goal but a goal nonetheless and the Colls began to look hungrier. Within 3 minutes they took the lead, this time Jamo with a fine strike that the keeper found too hot to handle! On the front foot the girls began to believe they were ready to run away with the game, but Amaranth had different ideas, 2 more goals conceded for the Colls before the halftime whistle meant that we had shipped more in one half than we had so far this season.
Half time and the team came in a little flat. A few words of encouragement, and they came out second half a different proposition altogether. They were simply unplayable. Amaranth to their credit defended doggedly, but 6 minutes into the second half a free kick 30 or so yards out wide on the left saw Poppy fire in a menacing effort that evaded everyone and nestled in the far corner! 3-3 and game on!
The game wore on but the girls looked dominant bar a few breakaway opportunities. The passing was crisp and the tackles were fierce. But most impressive was the composure. The girls kept plugging away creating opportunities but it would be another set piece that did the trick, this time Poppy smashing in a low corner that found its way to Jamo at the far post who lifted it neatly into the top of the net 4-3 up with 14 minutes to play!
What a turnaround!! Amaranth tried to come back into the game but the Colls were in full stride now, defending in numbers and looking for breakaway opportunities, barring one goalmouth scramble the game was sealed and the girls unbeaten run continues!!
POTM: Big Hannah for her outstanding defensive display
OPOTM: Lucie N another exceptional all round performance and in particular keeping their fantastic winger quiet in the second half!!
Any one of the girls could have took the awards on the day, the togetherness and class shown by everyone was a pleasure to watch and coach.
Proudly sponsored by Cain Services and Hunters Estate Agents.
