The ladies started nervously and conceded early into the game which also followed by a quick second goal from the visitors, the heat on the day was going to play its part with fitness levels not yet to where we expect. However every player played a part and didn't let any setbacks diminish great attitude and spirit in their first game together. Included in the squad were four academy players who have taken part in a few training sessions and we felt this was a good opportunity to give them a run out. Quite a few more experienced players away added to us not quite showing the pattern of play we have been seeing in training.

By the end of the first period of 30 mins Eastwood were trailing 0-3 to the visitors.

We reminded the players of where we were at and said from this point we now look to play how we want to and just get the basics right. The second period of 30 mins of play saw us having to defend and try to break on the counter which we did and looked threatening going forward. A few chances for both sides were missed and then we found ourselves with a free kick in a favourable position to threaten goal some 25 yards out.

Emma Bradshaw stepped up to take and was given some quick advice from the manager on the type of delivery to put in. A well struck shot was arrowing into the net when Paige Singleton saw an opportunity to make sure and raced in to send a glancing header to wrong foot the keeper for a well taken goal. Even though the score eventually ran out to a 5-1 loss we take positives from it.

We have to note that we put in three very inexperienced players in unfamiliar positions but this didn't phase them and they will be better for the experience. Tilly Wills who has been moved into the 1st team from the reserves and is also one of our academy players showed some promising attacking play causing problems pretty much every time she picked up the ball one to watch we think!

Captain Courtney Walters also playing out of position showed some great work playing out the back four and through midfield Caitlin Townsend who was our other centre half had a very good start to pre season and was on hand to clear up on numerous occasions and was a well earned player of the day.

At the end the players were disappointed result wise but more importantly upbeat with the obvious positives. Progress is what we are looking for with new staff new players a new beginning and lots of patience is needed to ensure we can stay on track .

On to the next game Sunday the 12th 2pm kick off at home.