Match Report
Match Report - 01 Feb 2009, Bracknell Town Ladies FC Bracknell Town Ladies beat Shanklin
Despite the long trip to Shanklin, it was good to see the Robins back in league action for the first time since 7 December. The weather proved to be a major influence on the game with a strong wind blowing the length of the pitch.
The Robins started with the wind behind them which resulted in some early pressure keeping the hosts camped in their defensive third. The Robins second corner on 9 minutes created the goal that was to prove the winner as Suchley struck the ball towards the near post area. Michelle Turner attacked the ball and her pressure resulted in a Shanklin defender putting into her own goal. The Robins continued to press restricting Shanklin to the odd breakaway but they were unable to test Cox in the Robins goal who was working hard to keep warm.
Too often, possession was conceded cheaply by the Robins who found the afternoon a frustrating one as they struggled to create any meaningful chances to extend their lead. The combination of the windy conditions and the tenacity of Shanklin proving a tough challenge.
The second half saw the pendulum swing in favour of the hosts as they pressed the Robins back into their half for long periods. Shanklin created several good opportunities despite the resolute defending of the Robins only to find that Cox was equal to them. Keeper Cox made to saves of high quality one in particular requiring fast reflexes at her near post.
The defensive line of Dawn and Emily Campbell along with Emma Turner and Tasha Boyle stood firm and were reliant on the help of their midfield colleagues as the combined powers of the Shanklin side and the howling gale, by now turned to blizzard like conditions. The Robins mounted some good counter attacks, many started by the rampaging Dawn Campbell playing at right back, with Emma Constable narrowly missing the target from range and also skipper Libby Suchley string a direct free kick across the face of the goal with the Shanklin keeper rooted to the spot.
A positive result for the Robins on their travels. They stood up well to the problems posed by their hard working hosts which provided a good physical test as they blew away the cobwebs from not having played any regular football for the best part of 2 months. Many a team will visit Shanklin and find them to be a particularly resiliant outfit who could have a significant say as to who will win the league title this season.
Shanklin 0 - 1 Bracknell Town Ladies FC Bracknell Town Ladies