The U14 Girls were back in league action at home in a local derby against St Albans City Yellow. We welcomed two former Harvesters players with the opposition but more importantly Scarlett was back having been out since the first match of the season.

With a starting 11 of Alana in goal with Bella, Diya, Taylor and Zara in defence. Alice, Poppy and Scarlett in midfield with a front three of Alexia, Isabelle and Lexi. Phoebe and Ruby were on the bench.

A fairly even start to the match with shots at both ends but not troubling either keeper. The girls grew in confidence and Poppy played a beautiful ball to Isabelle which troubled the St Albans defence.

Ruby came on for Alexia who was unable to play any further part due to illness.

On 26 minutes it was Alice who won the ball before sending it forward Isabelle who easily beat her defender before unleashing a shot between the keeper and near post to put the girls 1-0 up.

Bella and Taylor held the central defence firm with Diya and Zara keeping the opposition wingers quiet. Phoebe came on at left back and continued to do the same.

The defence were beaten once but a fine double save from Alana kept it at 1-0 when the half time whistle went.

We knew St Albans would come out strong in the second half. Unfortunately they won the ball deep in our half and a shot sailed in to level the scores within a minute of the restart.

The girls looked to get back in front but on 43 minutes a shot was parried out and the St Albans striker was quickest to react to make it 2-1.

Five minutes later it was 3-1 when pressure following a throw in saw a cross taken by the striker and the shot went in.

The girls didn’t give up and chances came but couldn’t be converted. Phoebe had moved to attacking midfield and was looking lively. Scarlett had a shot blocked, Lexi battled but the clear chance didn’t come. Ruby worked the wing and sent in great crosses while Isabelle terrorised the right back and a late chance was blocked.

Unfortunately it was a loss but the girls continued their progression as a new group.