BHFC U13 Lionesses 0-0 Welling Girls ( BHFC won 3-0 on pens )
Tue 30th Jan 2024 – London FA County Cup Quarter-Final
By Alex Skamiotis.
In a gripping Tuesday night encounter under the bright floodlights, the Lionesses showcased their prowess in a rescheduled county cup quarter-final clash against Wellings. The atmosphere was charged, and the drama unfolded on the expansive pitch in Chigwell.
The Lionesses’ starting XI boasted Dulcie guarding the goal, with a formidable defensive lineup of Ruby, Isadora, Robyn, and Amelie. The midfield comprised the talents of Mia, Zoe, Maddie, and Lola, while Kerin and Fay spearheaded the attacking force.
The match kicked off with an immediate buzz of excitement as the ball collided with the wire spanning the pitch. However, the Lionesses quickly found their rhythm, with Lola unleashing the first on-target effort of the game.
A series of coordinated plays followed, with Lola and Kerin combining forces. Mia’s powerful shot forced a corner, but the subsequent attempts sailed just wide. Notably, Ruby’s no-nonsense defensive approach sent the ball soaring into row Z, displaying the Lionesses’ determination to dominate.
Wellings launched their first real attack, only to be thwarted by Robyn’s decisive intervention. Dulcie’s agile goalkeeping skills ensured the Lionesses maintained their defensive stronghold, weathering a flurry of corners.
As the first half unfolded, the Lionesses continued to press forward. A well-orchestrated sequence involving Dulcie, Amelie, Zoe, Kerin, and Fay nearly found the back of the net. Despite a valiant effort from the birthday girl Fay, the opposing keeper stood firm.
The second half kicked off with a continuation of the Lionesses’ offensive onslaught. Lola’s corner led to a thrilling scramble in the box, but the opposition keeper denied Polly’s attempt. Mia and Kerin took turns testing the keeper, but the breakthrough remained elusive.
Fay entered the fray, and Zoe replaced Demi as the Lionesses maintained their attacking intensity. Maddie’s precision pass set Fay on a promising run, resulting in a corner that kept the pressure on Wellings.
Substitutions saw Georgia replace Amelie, injecting fresh energy into the team. Despite Mia’s pinpoint passes and Lola’s creative efforts, the opposing keeper thwarted each attempt. In the dying moments, a free-kick from Zoe sailed over the bar, and Lola’s last-gasp effort struck the frame of the goal.
With the deadlock unbroken after a pulsating 90 minutes, the match ventured into penalties. Zoe, Lola, and Maddie stepped up in emphatic fashion, converting their spot-kicks with style (3-0). The triumphant scene was complete as Stuart, the Lionesses’ manager, reveled in the moment.
In the end, the Lionesses emerged victorious, a result earned through grit, determination, and skill. The dramatic contest left spectators on the edge of their seats, prompting the suggestion that this unforgettable encounter could well be adapted into a cinematic masterpiece. Crash, bang, wallop – the Lionesses had indeed painted a picture of triumph under the floodlights.
