Blackmore Strike Ends Frustration

Blackmore Strike Ends Frustration

Ebbsfleet United Reserves (1) 1

Herne Bay Ladies (1) 1
Blackmore 37

South East Counties Womens League Division One (East)
Sunday 29th September 2013.

by Anthony Deer

Herne Bay Ladies started this game brightly, fell behind against the run of play then clawed the game back to end their frustration in front of goal. Despite their positive play from the first whistle Herne Bay Ladies could not capitalise on their early superiority with both Carly Farrow and Vicky Holness having efforts either saved by the goalkeeper or agonisingly the wrong side of posts and bar.
The first goal of the game was to come against the run of play when Fleet punted a hopeful ball forward for their striker to run on to and lob the advancing Breeze Handley. This spurred Herne Bay Ladies on and they pushed forward creating further chances all of which came to nought but with frustration creeping in, they held their nerve and 8 minutes before half time Debbie Blackmore cut inside from left back into the empty space in midfield and unleashed a ferocious shot from 35 yards that the Fleet ‘keeper misjudged and the ball nestled in the back of the net.
The second half was always going to be difficult with the Bay playing up the hill causing energy levels to flag as they pushed on in search of what proved to be an elusive winner. There were few chances for either side after the break. Ebbsfleet forced Breeze Handley into making just one notable save whilst they dealt with Bay’s attacks comfortably.
Last year’s treble winning side augmented by new players are learning that the higher level requires a slightly different brand of football with opponents preferring to prevent defeat rather than risk the Bay Ladies running riot. Herne Bay Ladies are learning and gelling and remain unbeaten in all competitive football this term.

Team manager Anthony Deer said, “Every game this season is going to be tough and today was no different, with players dropping out last minute due to work commitments made today’s fixture slightly harder than normal. We have the FA Cup again next week so planning and preparing for this is next on the agenda and as I’ve said before the girls are taking each game as it comes seriously with the will to want to win in every competition for everyone to see.”

Herne Bay Ladies Match Squad: Breeze Handley, Rachel Tracy, Beth Nugent, Enya Lynch, Debbie Blackmore, Kate Foster, Harriett Chapman, Lesley Kay, Lauren Wiltshire, Carly Farrow, Vicky Holness, Bella Smith, Emily Johnson

Player of Match: Kate Foster.