Women's 2nd XI Vs Falmouth II

Caradon 2s faced Falmouth 2s in their final home game before Christmas. With the visiting team only one spot above them in the table, Caradon were keen to gain some points and close the gap.

The home side started well with a dominance of pressure and possession for the majority of the first half and pushed hard for a goal. With regular striker Sarah Strevens out injured, EJ Mullis was pushed upfront to pair with Jayne Longrigg as a strong forward line. With good switch play between the two of them moving goalwards, both were unlucky not get on the scoresheet early. Caradon were showing an impressive confidence with switching moves across the pitch and wing play between Abi Largio and Sadie Mullis on the right, who has shown much improvement so far this season for such a young player.
The overdue goal finally came as EJ slipped the ball to captain Helen Manley on the halfway line. With defenders backing off, Helen continued to drive into the top of the D, one on one with the keeper took a strong enough strike through the keeper’s legs hitting the backboard with force – resulting in overexcited celebrations from the goalscorer!

After a half time talk of much positivity, Caradon knew Falmouth would be coming out strong to come back in the second 35. Their thoughts were confirmed as the game started with more equal play, end to end, attack followed by counterattack. The strong midfield line, including wingers Natalie Ridgers and Pippa Hedley with sub support from Kerryn Walsh, were kept busy and their run rate was constant and they followed up to support, only to then run back and defend.

However, Caradon’s defence in itself were a force to be reckoned with. Bekki Eddy in goal was assertive and made crucial saves in the second half. Nic Dymond and Claire Brown powerfully cleared mistakes by Falmouth, Georgia Hall showed impressive close stick play out of trouble and Amy Batty saved a shot off the line to keep the score 1-0. An important 3 points pushed Caradon above Falmouth in the table and on the same points as Truro, who they face tomorrow away at Truro School in another crucial clash.