Eng vs Jacksonville 25/01/12
 
We began our tour with a match against Jacksonville University.  Arriving at the changing rooms we were immediately hit by the Jacksonville “Dolphins” team pre-match rituals; some very enthusiastic, heart-felt and deafening renditions of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Wavin’ Flag” and “Dynamite”!  Whilst momentarily distracted, we soon regained our focus and began our warm-up. 
 
We took the field strong, netting our first goal (Brett) within a minute of the starting whistle.   The scores remained close during the first half, with both teams exchanging goals throughout.   After a morning’s practice focusing on some new attacking strategies, these were successfully implemented and lead to a number of goals. Although faced with a few different rules played in the USA, we made the adjustments necessary and adapted our style of play.   One memorable moment from the first half highlighted the physicality of the American players.  After feeding the ball for the second goal, a quick stick by Merrifield, Bennett was left in a heap on the turf from an illegal body check. Luckily, despite the heavy check, she was fine to return to play within a few minutes.
 
The teams left the field at half time, with the score even at 5-5.  Head coach Sarah “Richie” Butt led the team talk centering around reducing the number of fouls, keeping the ball safe in transition and reinforcing the discipline and creativity in the attack.  We took to the field again, refocused and ready to play “our game.”
 
During the first 15 minutes of the second half the teams remained within a goal of one another, keeping the spectators on the edge of their seats.   The momentum swung our way after a number of consecutive goals were scored off the back of some controlled and patient attacking play, bringing the score to 13-9.  Never allowing the coaching staff to relax we conceded two quick goals to bring Jacksonville within two with only 3 minutes left to play.  We ended the match with a win and the final score standing at 13-11.
 
Although mistakes were made, some great individual and team moments stood out at both ends of the pitch.  Annie Hillier was awarded the man of the match for her solid defense and her work in the midfield transition. It was a hard fought and heart felt victory and we are looking forward to building upon this tomorrow night against the University of Florida, who promise to be a tough opponent.
 
 
Goals
Katy Bennett 1
Sophie Brett 2
Emily Gray 2
Rachel Kirchheimer 2
Lucy Lynch 3
Laura Merrifield 2
Keely Watt 1
 
Assists
Hannah Barnsley 1
Katy Bennett 1
Jane Brierly 1
Lucy Lynch 1
Ali Smith 1
Laura Merrifield 2

watch the highlights here

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