A trip to Glasgow was in store last Saturday for the Ladies 1s to take on Kelburne at Glasgow Green. A bus trip and a long wait for the game did not dampen spirits or attitudes as the girls set about achieving their second win of 2022. The squad was juggled around again due to Covid and other events making necessary changes to the squad but a return to first team action was the bonus for Jo Thomas.
The game started fairly even with Kelburne having more territorial advantage but leaving gaps at the back as they tried to enforce their presence. The major threats from GCW at this point were through balls finding forwards all alone but again the girls could not force the required outcomes.
In the second quarter GCW looked like they were taking control but suddenly found themselves a goal down. Some indecisive footwork led to a foul in the 22 metre area. The Kelburne forward drove into the circle and unleased a fine shot that finished high in the net. This was frustrating, but the girls responded really well and upped the pressure. A ball through the Kelburne defence found Sarah Duthie who drove into the circle, drew the keeper and passed square to the on rushing Fay Bruce who passed the ball back into the goal on the far side. So 1-1 at half time but the feeling the game was there for the girls if they wanted it.
The second half produced a strong GCW performance. GCW pressed and won the ball time after time in the Kelburne half. However the elusive goal was not coming . Several corners came and went and it was beginning to look like a tale of what might have been. However with four minutes remaining a strong run and cross into the circle found the ball bouncing up and Sarah Duthie was on hand to get the vital touch to deflect the ball home for the winner. A fine away win well deserved but the ruthless streak needs a little work.
At the same time as the 1s the Ladies 2s were taking on Grammar at Rubislaw. The game followed a familiar 2s v Grammar game with Grammar taking a lead against the run of play but the girls fought back and “the Birmingham Bullet” Esther Walterson converted to earn a well deserved point. On Sunday the girls 5s were at Ellon and a much changed side (because of U14 trials on at the same time) produced a fine performance narrowly losing out 2-1. Highlight of the day being debutant Lucy Todd’s strike to put GCW ahead. Thanks to stand in coach Larraine Dawson for making the substitutions a lot easier.