Our U12 girls entered their 1st ever gala competition having just achieved a 100% league win record in their 1st season and they shone brightly.
The Colls faced a tough group stage with the two strongest teams coming 1st and second in the draw.
First up was Barnsley ladies FC a strong established side. The blues battled hard after going 1-0 down. Olive, superb on the wing was clattered just outside the box and unfortunately ended up in A&E & out of the gala with a shoulder injury which was a big blow for the team. The resulting free kick was smashed in by the unstoppable Liv P. 1-1. A well deserved draw by the Colls.
Second match was west end terriors, the group stage winners & tough competition. The blues despite losing winger Olive, Teegan S stepped in was superb in only her second ever match for the colls. started brightly with chances for Teegan C, Anna and Katie. Injury hit again when a terrior defender stood on Katie’s arm. Luckily Katie was ok to continue. After a good tussle, the terriors came out 2-0 winners after 2 clinical finishes which was just the difference between the two teams after a really good battle.
Game 3 saw the blues really turn on the style with 2-0 win over Pontefract Wildcats. Goals from Teegan C and Anna topped off a great team performance.
Game 4 the Colls are flying with a emphatic 3-0 win over SAFC. The team played some fantastic football. Three classy goals from Jessie, Anna and Katie along with outstanding defending from Liv E, Lexi and Liv P really showcased what a fantastic team they are.
Onto the semi final saw a re match of the first game against Barnsley FC. The girls now established in the tournament battled really well and gave Barnsley a real test. Teegan C, fantastic in every game battled for every ball along with Amashi & the amazing defence of Liv E & Liv P. Keeper Emme pulled off some great saves and Anna, Jessie & Katie all had chances but it ended 0-0 and onto penalties. Up steps Jessie, Liv P, Katie & Lexi who all smashed in their penalties. One of the highlights of the gala was keeper Emme, in her 1st ever shootout, brave as a lion, was outstanding and saved two penalties taking the blues into their first ever final. Wow, what a team effort.
Into the final against the hosts West end terriers. The girls now battered & bruised but elated from the semi final win were determined to bring the cup home. The Colls started really well passing the ball round, creating chances & keeping terriers at bay. The blues were awarded a free kick just outside the box after a bad foul from the terriers defender. Up steps Liv P and smashes it in the net. The supporters went crazy which was soon short lived after the west end terriers referee refused to give the goal despite video footage proving it hit the back of the net. The biggest travisty of the day. This clearly affected both sides as Terriers lifted by this decision went on to score. The team as always, refused to give in and worked their socks off battling for every ball. The blues were rewarded when Anna broke free and smashed in the equaliser but clearly the scoreline should have been 2-1 to the colls & deserved gala winners. Unfortunately it wasnt meant to be as the terriers went on to “win” on penalties.
A very tough lesson for the team to learn but they really did the club, their coach and supporters proud by giving 100%, playing some outstanding football & showing what team spirit is all about.
Well done girls reaching the final in your first ever gala. You were amazing!!
