Women's 2nd XI Vs OPM 1

Caradon 2s travelled across the bridge for what they knew would be a tough game against a strong OPM side who had been scoring freely in their first two games this season.

As predicted the game started with the majority of OPM possession. What felt like a large amount of the first half with OPM attacking, it was Player of the Match Lynn Oxenham in goal who kept out a peppering of strikes to keep Caradon in the game early on. The few chances the visiting side did have on goal weren't quite on target but the hunger was definitely evident.

Despite the best efforts of the defence it was OPM who took the lead and held onto halftime. The Caradon talk at the interval gave players a much needed boost that they could and deserved to get something out of this match.

Rachel Spencer had to space to run with the ball up the pitch and found Katie Fear free on the left, she picked up the ball and headed goalwards. Once in the D what looked like a pass ended up in the back of the goal catching everyone off guard as the team ran back to the start celebrating equalising 1-1.

The game started getting fiesty as the home side became frustrated at the amount of ball Caradon were having and keeping compared to the first half. Close contact, players being knocked to the floor, it was surprising that no cards were handed out as tempers and temperatures went on the rise with the sun making its appearance draining both sides in the heat.

OPM took the lead 2-1 with a controversial goal which left both captains and umpires discussing whether the ball was hit straight onto the D or not. The decision went in OPMs favour as Caradon had to keep their heads up and go again. Getting another goal was no doubt for the visiting yellows; determination, slick passing down the wings and strong battling gave them plenty of opportunity and with both Laura Tuxford and Vanessa Scott looking hungry for goal their shots were getting closer with Laura even hitting the post.

With both teams now flagging in the heat and the constant up and down the pitch running attack and counter attack, Caradon took such a counter attack chance and found a shot in a crowded D. Vanessa's strike seemingly heading to the goal in slow motion, it was Kirsty Merrin who jumped on the ball making sure it went across the line to give Caradon a deserved draw.

Caradon can take alot from this game, especially how the youngsters stood up to strong physical play and kept their heads. The 2s 'never give up' attitude got them a well earned point, keeping them undeafeted in three games. Another hard test this weekend with a visit from fellow front runners, Duchy.