The Roses faced Rugby Borough, a strong side we had already played twice this season in both a league game and a friendly. With Lily absent due to illness, we were pleased to welcome back Katie and Lenna after their respective injuries and illnesses.

The first half was below par from us, with Rugby the stronger team. We fell behind early when a well-placed shot found the bottom corner from the edge of the box. Rugby continued to apply pressure, delivering dangerous crosses, but we defended well to keep the score at 1-0 going into halftime. Our best attacking moments came through Poppy’s direct running, which provided an outlet, though her shots failed to seriously test the goalkeeper.

At halftime, we challenged the players to raise their intensity and show greater commitment, as we could sense how the game might unfold based on the warm-up. A tactical change was also needed, as our attackers were too isolated against Rugby’s disciplined defence.

The second half was a vast improvement, with the game played mostly in Rugby’s half. Our energy levels rose, and Caris set the tone at right-back by playing composed passes instead of simply clearing the ball. Others followed suit, Hallie and Sophie began using possession more effectively in midfield, while Kiri, Poppy, Ellie, and Chloe put real pressure on the opposition defense.

Despite our improvement, we had to stay alert to counterattacks. Esme worked tirelessly in a tough battle with Rugby’s rapid winger, while Lenna provided stability alongside Lilia, whose aggressive pressing helped us win possession higher up the pitch. As Lenna continues her recovery, she was replaced by Tilly, who led from the back, organising the defence and stepping into midfield when needed. Behind them was our leader Lyla who had a relatively comfortable afternoon but she did the basics very well.

The game swung in our favour when Kayleigh was moved into an attacking role. Her relentless pressing immediately unsettled Rugby’s backline. Our breakthrough came from a sweeping move from right to left, ending with Chloe feeding Poppy. Though she initially struggled to control the ball, she showed great determination, turning inside the box, battling through challenges, and finishing past the goalkeeper.

Ellie then returned to the pitch and grabbed the winner. A well-weighted pass sent her through on goal, and she finished confidently. Earlier in the game, she had been dropping too deep, so we asked her to stay higher up the pitch to better support Chloe in attack, a tactical tweak that paid off.

The Roses came away with a 2-1 victory, thanks to a much-improved second-half performance. Moving forward, we must ensure that intensity and desire are present from the warm-up. A special mention goes to Katie, who completed her first match since injury and was excellent throughout. Player of the Match went to Poppy for her tireless running and direct play, which caused constant problems for the opposition, capped off with a well-earned goal.