Report

Just one game too far after a long long season…….
 
The 2012 League Cup Winners, with a heavily depleted squad and carrying a number of injuries, illness and freak accidents finished runners-up in the 2012 Merit Shield after a long season in the Stourbridge and District League.
 
Going into the game confidence was good, although there was a feeling that events had transpired against us during the past two weeks. Losing Georgia to a freak arm fracture meant a reshuffling of the pack and we owe huge thanks to Abbi for stepping into the breach and doing a magnificent job. Also with Emily battling a chest infection,chloe's ribs and all of our thoughts with Lou we were definitely up against it.
 
The game started at breakneck speed on a challenging pitch and despite early pressure from Sedgley we were well in the game, the first two decent chances falling to Tyler and Lou.
 
Sedgley were breaking quickly but the back four were holding a decent line and we were looking threatening going forward. Late in the first half we were holding a slightly high line and Sedgley took advantage, sliding the ball fortuitously past Abbi. Unfortunately we failed to clear our lines and it was quickly 2-0, the ball bouncing invitingly for a simple tap-in. Another then followed and before we knew it we were three down. Concentration, concentration......
 
Things to work on for the future but now to show a bit of pride………………
 
We regrouped at half-time. The girls were disappointed but we were not out of the game. We had battled against adversity all season - but it was not to be this time.
 
We had three excellent chances but unfortunately the ball would just not go in the net. One of those days. Again a lucky bounce and bobble and the ball trickled into our net for their fourth.
 
Very harsh on the girls.
 
Despite this we continued to battle (we always fight to the end) but it wouldn't happen for us.
 
This does not take the gloss off what has been an absolutely magnificent season for the girls. One swallow does not make a summer and we have to remember what we have achieved following our two previous seasons of developing the club;
 
League Cup Champions (we will never forget the atmosphere at The Dell will we?) and the only Birmingham team to win in the cup.
Merit Shield Runners-up
Going so close in the League - we have competed and beaten every other team in the league this season. (something we couldn't even contemplate before)
Two magnificent unbeaten runs during the season
Superb technical football, clinical finishing and magnificent defending
 
And we did all of this…TOGETHER
 
Two girls of the match for yesterday and well done to both of them;
 
Abbi for stepping into the breach following Georgia's accident and having a superb attitude in training and a great game. Well done Abbs - you deserve all the plaudits
 
Amy for standing up and taking no nonsense from players much bigger than her. Magnificent attitude Ame's.
 
Well done to them and all of the girls yesterday. You have all put such a great shift in over the season and we are very very proud of you.
 
But the season has finished and it’s time to move on and regroup for next season.
 
There are some valuable footballing lessons to be learned for everyone from yesterday’s game that can be carried over into the new season. All good experiences. That’s management, coaches and players – together. But we all need to be in it collectively and demonstrate professionalism and respect for all – and we will continue to achieve our objectives.
 
As the saying goes if it ain't broke don't fix it. And we are not broke by any stretch but football never stands still. The management and coaches are already working hard to develop the group and we are confident of securing a number of new faces for the start of the new campaign to help the group in place. We are also looking at the infrastructure and commercial development of the team - something that is likely to result in a positive outcome and raise awareness of our achievements.
 
And finally a few thank - you's following a great season.
 
Thank you to all of the parents for their magnificent support, particularly ferrying the girls to away games in the Black Country. This is no mean feat given the current economic climate and it is greatly appreciated. Also for washing kit, cleaning boots and getting the girls to training!!!
 
Secondly, thank you to all of the players - their sense of humour, dedication and sheer footballing ability. They are a great group and have been a pleasure to coach (apart from the odd Thursday!!!!! - only joking girls!). I hope we can keep you all together for next season. And for those going for Academy trials good luck to you all - you will always be welcome here.
 
And finally to the Manager and coaches who have worked hard to improve all aspects of the team over the past three seasons. The team has been on a steep learning curve but we are now reaping the benefits of our committment and investment. We are all still learning and will continue to work hard to ensure the team progresses and aspires for footballing excellence.
 
Well done to you all . Now lets get ready for pre season.
 
BE PROUD - WE ARE COLTS