After a postponement last week, the Roses were determined to end the year on a high note, and they achieved just that in a hard-fought County Cup Quarter Final.

Unfortunately, we were without our stalwart Katie, who is recovering from an ankle fracture, and we wish her a speedy recovery. On the morning of the match, we also lost Lilia, a solid defender who has been a reliable presence all season.

The Roses faced Ashby Ivanhoe Shooters, a team having an impressive season in the division above, and currently unbeaten in their league campaign.

With the absences, there were some forced changes to our lineup. Lenna shifted from midfield to central defence, and Ellie moved from an attacking role to bolster the midfield alongside Lily and Sophie, providing added power and energy.

The match began with a lively pace as the Roses looked to exploit the Ashby defence. Chloe was through on goal early, but the defender recovered just in time to prevent the shot.

Defensively, the Roses were holding strong. Kayleigh was solid at right back, making several crucial blocks and clearances, while Esme had a tough task against Ashby’s powerful winger. Esme never gave up, recovering well even after being beaten and making key blocks. Lenna and Tilly were steadfast in central defence, though Ashby did create a few chances. Their number 10 broke through our defence but fired wide under pressure from Lyla, and a couple of long-range shots were well saved by her.

The Roses took the lead with a brilliant, defence-splitting pass from Caris that sent Poppy through on goal. Despite still having work to do, Poppy kept her composure and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper. It was a well-executed goal, and Caris showed great confidence throughout the match, displaying skill and even attempting a shot from distance when the goalkeeper was off her line.

For the remainder of the first half, the Roses dug in and defended resolutely. Our midfield trio of Sophie, Lily, and Hallie worked tirelessly to stifle Ashby’s midfield, with Ellie also breaking forward from deep to support the attack. Ellie’s maturity and defensive contributions were crucial in this match.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with the Roses soaking up pressure and looking to break quickly through Chloe, Kiri, and Poppy. We managed to get through on goal a few times but were unable to test the goalkeeper too much.

With the clock winding down, Ashby found an equalizer in the final seven minutes. A shot from the edge of the box beat Lyla’s diving effort, bringing the game level at 1-1, and we headed to penalties.

In the shootout, Poppy, Ellie, Kiri, and Chloe all converted their penalties. Lyla was the hero, saving two and almost saving the other two shots she faced with Chloe calmly placing the ball high into the goal, ensuring the Roses’ passage to the County Cup Semi-Final.

The Players of the Match were awarded to Lenna and Lyla. Lyla made several crucial saves throughout the match and was outstanding in the shootout, while Lenna put in a commanding performance at centre-back, aggressively marking the striker, heading out crosses, and making vital clearances and blocks. It was an impressive display from both players. Shoutout to Chloe who played this match and wasn’t 100% following illness but she gave everything she had for the team.