An away trip to Rugby for the Belles, we knew it was going to be tough against a team that has won all of their games and sit top of the league.

The Belles started with Monica in midfield, with the returning Lois coming into centre back and Eliza being central in a 3 pronged attack.

The Belles started really well and pressed the Rugby defence at every opportunity. Caitlin saw a long range shot saved by the goalkeeper, then some tenacious work by Darcy saw her cross and Oliwia fired it wide. Defensively the Belles were looking strong, Lols getting in front of the forward then Ava had to be strong to regain possession. Eliza hit a long range shot that the goalkeeper saved again, but despite the promising start the opposition took the lead. It was harsh on the Belles and probably against the run of play.

Esme then made a good save to her left then a free kick was won by a typically hard working Caitlin, which saw Lois test the goalkeeper. The Belles just couldn't make their positive first half display pay off.

At halftime we told the Belles to continue the confidence and believe in themselves. Chloe moved upfront, Evie switched to left back as Iris came on a right midfield.

Some strong play from Iris and a lovely pass nearly got Darcy away, but the opposition doubled their lead early on in the second half.

The response from the Belles was excellent, Monica was a tower of strength in the centre of the park as the Belles pushed forward. Lola quickly intercepted a pass and got the Belles away as she passed to Amie whose cross was cleared.

Caitlin and Oliwia were seeing more of the ball as the Belles switched to a back 3 and looked more threatening. Darcy saw a shot saved then a Caitlin pass saw Eliza break clear to score. However it was ruled out for a very dubious off side call. The Belles continued to press as Scarlet was fouled. Her resulting free kick just went over the bar. Lois who had pushed into a more advanced midfield role, bought a save from the goalkeeper.

The Belles work rate wasn't faltering with Lols continuing her battle with their striker and on the right side, Ava got the ball back with some excellent play.

As the Belles pushed forward it was leaving space in behind. Esme made a brilliant diving save but not long after Rugby capitalised and got a third.

Despite the efforts of the Belles it wasn't to be as the game finished. The Belles reflected on a good performance and falling the wrong side of fine margins. The start was positive and the scoreline certainly flattered the opposition.

However the work ethic of the Belles was fantastic and we will use this game to further push on. Players of the match went to Esme and Eliza. Esme for two excellent saves and a commanding display. Eliza for playing a few roles with amazing effect, defensively she was brilliant and going forward she was a threat.

Well done girls and well done Belles!