Ladies 1s 6 - 1 Worthing 1s

Sussex Ladies League Premier Division

EG Ladies put in their best performance of the season on Saturday in a convincing 6-1 win over Worthing Ladies 1’s, who are positioned third (one place above EG) in the league. 

The match couldn’t have started more positively for EG; Briony Bray scored an impressive goal after just 2 minutes following a clever interception by Pauline Joseph and some sharp passing between Joseph and Steph Baggett.  Worthing, who had beaten EG 3-1 earlier in the season, were clearly surprised to go a goal down so early and continued to be outclassed by EG on their home pitch.

EG built numerous strong attacks and they maintained composure and patience around the circle.  JoJo Blunt demonstrated her excellent skills in scoring EG’s second goal, after collecting a through-ball from Vicky Griffiths. 

Soon afterwards Louise Keith’s well struck shot from the edge of the circle resulted in a third goal for EG when it was helped into the goal by a Worthing defender’s stick.  Several further chances came to EG but Worthing demonstrated toughness and strength, their centre-back in particular tackled well and denied EG on numerous occasions. 

Worthing also put together attacking moves of their own, occasionally catching EG under-staffed at the back, having committed players forward.  However, Michelle Wolfe was excellent for EG at Sweeper, working well with Nicky Hamstead in the middle. The score at half-time was 3-0 to EG.

Like the first half, the second half started well, with an early goal for EG from Griffiths.  Stephanie Baggett again demonstrated superior skills and pace, and played a clever pass through to Griffiths for the goal. 

At the other end, Nikki Robinson made several excellent saves in goal, both in the air and on the ground.  Pauline Joseph and Emma Pearson continued to work hard in midfield, with strong tackling and early passing.

Worthing’s goal came mid-way through the second half, following a well-worked move down their right.  EG, however, came straight back with a goal from Joseph - a clever shot from a narrow angle.  By now, EG were completely in control and to the spectators it would have seemed that EG were several league places above Worthing; a reflection of the progress this EG team has made as through the season.  In particular, EG’s defence was solid and well-organised, with Lou Shaill and Ellie Farrow having the confidence to push forward and provide support and options to the midfielders and forwards.

EG’s sixth and final goal was scored by Steph Baggett just before the final whistle.   Impressive teamwork between Baggett, Joseph and Bray created the chance for Baggett, who made no mistake in front of goal.

The final score was 6-1 to EG, but unfortunately the win was not enough to take them above Worthing in the league table, and so they remain in fourth place. 

Next weekend EG have two matches: away at Mid Sussex in the league on Saturday, followed by their quarter final EH Vase match on Sunday against Sonning at Bracknell.

Scorers: B Bray, J Blunt, L Keith, V Griffiths, P Joseph, S Baggett