Results

Mon 31 Jan East Grinstead 1-0 RAF

Sun 13 Feb Harrow 4-1 RAF

Mon 14 Feb Woking 4-3 RAF Fee Chandler (2) Lucy Sheppard (1).

East Grinstead vs RAF Ladies - 31 Jan 11

The RAF squad travelled to East Grinstead for their first competitive fixture of the season. Despite the frozen pitch the RAF ladies quickly asserted their presence on the pitch, and held the home team to 0-0 during the first period of play. Following strict instructions from coach Dain Lewis to put into practice their previous days training, the ladies impressively avoided running the ball into contact in all areas of the pitch. This avoidance of contact enabled the RAF to maintain possession for large periods of the game, made all the more impressive given this was the first time many of the side had ever played together. The RAF side, with some impressive play from the 2 centre backs, withstood periods of pressure with East Grinstead squandering a number of chances; East Grinstead scored a well deserved goal during the second period. Although the RAF side’s forward movement improved throughout the game, all forwards recognised the need to use lateral runs in future games to assist the ball carrier. The RAF created some good chances, these opportunities will only improve as understanding and communication continues to increase. The game finished 1-0 to east Grinstead, a fair result given the number of chances created by the home side. Overall this was a good first performance from the RAF squad with lots of lessons to take forward; all players should be pleased at their ability to take fundamental skills learnt in training into match play.