Many thanks to the girls in years 5 and 6 who played in today’s league match vs Emmaus. It was the girls’ first match the season and we were all very excited to get playing! Captain Livvy Roberts led the team out which consisted of a variety of girls from year 6 returning to the team, as well as Ruby Richardson and Shelby “The Steel Mobile” Steele making their debuts from year 5.

The match began with some tough luck for OLI. A corner from Emmaus was headed in at close range for 1-0. Our girls responded extremely positively, supporting each other without an ounce of blame. This resilience was rewarded shortly after when a through ball to striker Macey Jacobs went through the keeper’s legs for an equalising goal. 1-1!

Mia McCarthy and Lavelle Lamb were helping to run the midfield with precise passes and fearless tackles in an attempt to find Macey upfront. Unfortunately momentum shifted when a stunning Garth-esque effort from 30 yards out flew into the top corner for a 2nd Emmaus goal. The unstoppable shot was unlucky as the girls were playing excellently as a team. The half ended 1-2.

Some teams may have sulked, but the girls had a half-time group hug (something that we’re yet to see from the boys’ teams) and returned to battle in the second half. Defending was excellent as a barrage of shots came from Emmaus. Ruby Richardson was letting nothing through, as well as stunning work-rates from Penny Donnelly, Holly Lewis and Gabriella Bennett. Keeper Livvy was making excellent saves from several long-range efforts, using both the hands and feet to great effect. Unfortunately, a late goal for Emmaus came when a save from Livvy rebounded to a lurking attacker who finished from close range. The match ended 1-3 soon after.

Congratulations to both teams for a close match with excellent sportsmanship highlighting how to lose and win with grace.

POTM: Gabriella Bennett. Excellent tackling and passing, as well as smiling throughout the whole game. A real team player!