Date: 09/10/11
Fixture: League
Game: Godalming Town 1 v BAWFC 2
Players' POTM: Nicole Cho-Yee
Manager's POTM: Preeti Johal
Author: Nicole Cho-Yee
Line Up: Natasha Bajwa (GK), Preeti Johal, Amy Jackson (C), Nicole Cho-Yee, Emma Longman, Nav Johal, Sarah Atkin, Charlotte Wilkinson, Kate Williamson, Rebecca Poulton, Gilly Thomson (1)
Subs: Lisa Linsley (N Johal 60), Kim Terry (Atkin 50), Liz Foster (1) (Wilkinson 50)
BA travelled to an away fixture against Godalming Town aiming to maintain their unbeaten start to the season, and expand their four match winning streak. BA knew that a victory against a highly rated Godalming side would certainly cement their position at the summit of the table, and further forewarn league opposition of their season's intentions.
The opening exchanges of the match were tentative, with neither team being able to gain an advantage, nor control the flow of play with their possession. At times play was somewhat disjointed, with both teams attempting to secure an ascendency. The hesitant environment of the match limited BA to only a couple of notable chances; however they were not able to capitalise. This was no indication of the plausible work rate of the team, as BA battled, and attempted to drive forth into the oppositions half. Likewise, Godalming were limited to minimal chances with composed defending from Amy, Emma, and Preeti, and a superbly timed slide tackle from Charlotte.
On reflection, the match can certainly be deemed a match of two halves as the exploratory climate of the first half was replaced with an atmosphere of more intent from both teams. Godalming were first to seize the initiative in the match as a loose ball was captured and fired home sweetly from outside the box, dipping under the crossbar at the last moment. This proved to be the turning point in the match as BA were galvanised into action, bringing incision and cohesion to their play. Liz looked vibrant and spirited in midfield generating decisive attacking play. A moment of inspiration was produced when Kate provided a penetrating pass to Gilly who in her usual predatory fashion seized the ball, and coolly and clinically fired home to bring BA on level terms.
Godalming continued to pose an attacking threat, however their efforts were nullified. This was due to slick awareness, interceptions, and claiming from goalkeeper Tasha who commanded her box excellently throughout the entire match. As the half progressed BA were tenacious in their quest for a winner, with some excellent spells of passing and movement from attacking players. Late on in the second half, BA were rewarded for their resilience as a corner was bundled over the line in determined fashion by Liz. Godalming were persistent in their pursuit of an equaliser, but BA held firm to grind out the victory and maintain their unbeaten league record.
Next Sunday's fixture sees BA in cup action against Colne Valley which is sure to be an exciting and enthralling match.
