5th October 2025 - vs Stanford-in-the-Vale

Our first fixture of October proved to be a closely contested encounter that could have gone either way. The long journey away from home made for a challenging start, and we knew from the outset it would be a difficult test. We arrived with confidence, having won all four of our opening matches, but Stanford-in-the-Vale also came into the game unbeaten. History was not on our side either, as we had yet to record a victory against them in previous seasons. Despite this, we refused to let it affect us before the game had even begun. We had shown steady improvement week after week and believed we had what it would take to secure the win.  

The game started intensely as we suspected it would, both sides evenly matched and having their fair share of chances driving forwards. Stanford-in-the-Vale struck first, going 1-0 up early on, but we refused to let out heads drop. Our back line remained firm and refused to let them pass while midfield were quick to win the ball back and send it forwards so we could drive towards goal. Through determination and grit, Jess sent a superb ball through to Lucy W, who slotted it home under pressure from Standford’s defence, making it 1-1 just before half time.  

As the teams came out for the second half with the scores level, both sides were ready to continue the battle. With 45 minutes to turn the game from a draw to a victory, everything was still to play for, and no one could predict which way it would go. Every player had given their all in what had been a very physically demanding and aggressive game, and it all came down to who could keep their composure and who would make the first mistake.  

With the clock ticking down and only 5 minutes left to play, the game looked set for a draw until, Lucy C produced a brilliant winner to seal the victory. The breakthrough came from a superb midfield effort, winning the ball back after a forward push from Stanford-in-the-Vale. A quick pass found Jade, who drove at the defence before sliding the ball through to Lucy. She poked it past the keeper and, from a tight angle, fired it into the net.  

Another outstanding team performance made it 5 out of 5 wins for us ensuring we remain at the top of the league. We look forward to continuing this winning streak throughout the season.  

Players player of the match was awarded to Steph for her rock-solid performance at the back. Time and time again she stood up to her opponents, showing composure under pressure and refusing to let anything through. Her consistency and determination set the tone for the defensive line and gave the team stability throughout the game.  

Lisa earned Managers player of the match after an outstanding display in midfield. She fought tirelessly to be first to every ball, breaking up play with crucial challenges and driving the team forward with relentless energy. Her work rate and influence in the centre of the pitch proved vital, and she played a key role in keeping the momentum in our favour.  

All credit must go to Stanford-in-the-Vale, who never gave in and continued to push right until the final whistle. Their determination, energy and fighting spirit was evident across the pitch, making it a fiercely competitive contest from start to finish. They worked tirelessly to test our defence and ensured that the result was far from easy. It was by no means a straightforward victory for us, and the challenge they posed is a testament to the quality of their side.