| Match Report |
Caradon travelled to Yeovil knowing a draw would be enough to clinch promotion, but they claimed the title with a convincing 2-0 win.
With an almost full squad available, Caradon looked comfortable and balanced from the first whistle, quickly getting into the groove of their passing style of play. Yeovil, who face a relegation battle, were fighting for every ball and putting pressure on Caradons defence forcing numerous penalty corners. The defence looked calm and defended with superb composure, working as a unit to minimise any real threat on goal.
The game had a good flow for both teams but it was Caradon who created the better of the chances. Bizzie Dinnis made herself some good chances on goal but the Yeovil's keeper was having an inspired game and made numerous top drawer saves, frustrating Caradons dangerous attackers.
With the score 0-0 at half time, Caradon set out to continue to be patient and resilient in the second half. Molly Walsh, Beth Harris and Clare Mitchell really began to turn the screw in midfield, dominating the home team and increasing the pressure on the Yeovil's goal. An excellent team move eventually broke the deadlock as a Mitchell pass to player of the match Libby Walsh. With a superb controlled pass, captain Clare Poad was left with the easiest of tap in to make it 1-0.
Knowing that Yeovil would have been deflated by the goal, Caradon completely controlled the game and played in a way fitting of champions. Julia Eldridge continued to break up play and offer inroads going forward and the game was effectively ended when Molly Walsh swept home a nice nice move leaving Caradon to play out the last 10 minutes with good game management. A slight change in formation allowed Lucie Kay to add another layer of protection and the full whistle was greeted with elation form a team that had secured back to back promotions.
A remarkable season from a group of 14 individuals who have developed a real desire to be the best and have found the winning formula, losing just 3 games in a league where they would certainly not have started as favourites to be promoted back in September.
This Saturday Caradon play their last league game of the season against runners up Exe at Lux Park 2pm. The team look forward to celebrating in front of what promises to be a healthy crowd.
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