Womens 1s vs Southgate W1

Magpies Womens 1st team travelled to Southgate, following 5 games unbeaten could they make it 6?

It was a big day for Southgate as they were fund raising for the ‘Grace O’Malley Kumar’ foundation. As big crowds ascended, the game started with red flares and music as the teams walked out onto the pitch. With both teams laying near in the table, they knew it would be a closely contested game. Depending on other results, just a draw for Magpies could see their position in National League Div 1 secured for another year.

Magpies started off strong putting Southgate under early pressure. Despite this, Southgate managed to win an early PC. As Southgate continued to ride the pressure of the Magpies press, they found themselves with 1 green card after another. Magpies were unable to take advantage of the player down. Possession began to go back and forth but Magpies stayed disciplined. 0-0 at half time.

Early in to the second half, chances began to arise for Magpies. After some lovely build up play, Anna Cogdell made a awesome run up the right hand side of the pitch; skilling 5 of their players, to find Felicity Williams at the top of the D who then slid the ball towards the bottom corner with a clever touch from Hannah DS to deflect the ball in the goal 1-0! More chances came for Laura Tibbenham and Olivia Williams but Southgate’s keeper managed to keep the ball out and kept their team in the game.

Southgate put the pressure on but GK George Flatt made some vital saves as well as Magpies defence making crucial tackles to keep them ahead.

Into the last quarter Magpies continued to work hard with Player of the match; Beth Gardens dominating the middle. Magpies had a slight blip in organisation and Southgate managed to find the back board to make it 1-1.

Finishing with a draw now means that the team have secured their place in division one for next season.