U14's Stats and Match Reports. 2009/10

BRADFORD CITY 6 v 1 OAKWORTH

JESSICA McPHERSON 4

ANNIE NICOL 1

RHIANNON BREWSTER 1

Today we made the long awaited trip to Hemsworth Miners Welfare FC for the WRGFL Shield Final. The weather was dry if not a bit blowy and cold but the atmosphere was positive and the girls, parents and coaches were all buzzing! The game got underway as Oakworth kicked off playing with the wind in their favour. They immediately showed that they were really up for it by pressing City back into their own half. With the wind against them and looking like we were having one of our notorious slow starts, City struggled to get the ball out of their half. After 5 minutes a free kick was awarded to Oakworth for what looked like a relatively minor offence but in a final rules are rules. The free kick was taken well and on target and Amee chose to catch the ball rather than push it over but unfortunately it went through her hands and into the net. City nil Oakworth 1. A minute later saw Jess through on the left but her first shot was blocked by the keeper and the follow up went just wide. Oakworth continued to press City back and were first to the ball on a lot of occasions and were always prepared to get a head on the ball. A second free kick to Oakworth saw another well struck shot at goal but this time Amee saved well by pushing the ball over. On 13 minutes Jess played a nice ball out to the left to Annie but her shot went just wide. On 21 minutes a City corner from the right saw the ball fall to Sophie who controlled well but her shot was blocked. The ball rolled out to Annie who, from a tight angle on the left fired home to level the score. 3 minutes later saw Ree play a neat ball to Jess who quickly controlled the ball and shot but the keeper saved well. At this point City were getting back into the game with Oakworth probably having more of the possession but not posing a major threat upfront. On the stroke of half time a ball to Jess saw her control and fire home in the right hand corner to put City ahead. Half time City 2 Oakworth 1.

The second half got underway and although City had the wind with them it was Oakworth, once again, who did the early pressing with City struggling to get the ball clear. On 39 minutes a ball played through the City defence saw an Oakworth forward one on one with Amee who positioned herself well and saved the shot. 5 minutes later saw Sophie break free and slot the ball home but the referee disallowed the goal for an apparent push. Oakworth continued to press and although they had a lot of possession they were not really threatening the City goal. On 53 minutes a ball played through the middle of the Oakworth defence saw Jess, Molly and Becky all converge on the ball with any one of them scoring but I have been reliably informed that the goal was scored by Jess, City were now controlling the game and after 66 minutes Ree went on a great run through the middle of the Oakworth half and from the edge of the box fired home for a well deserved goal. City 4 Oakworth 1. On 68 and 69 minutes Jess latched onto balls through the middle and made no mistake with trademark finishes and take her tally to four. Final score City 6 Oakworth 1.

Thanks to Steve and the Oakworth girls for another tough but enjoyable game. Oakworth came here to compete and win this game, So, for City, everything ended well albeit with a rather flattering scoreline. Every one of you dug in and showed great commitment today. You all played well and in the end you thoroughly deserved this victory, This is our first season together and you really are progressing and showing you can compete with the best. WELL DONE GIRLS. YOU ARE THE WRGFL U14 SHIELD WINNERS 2010 !!!!!

Next game is 12th May at home this Wednesday against York City Cubs (remember the last game!!). Meet at 17:45 at Rawdon Meadows.

Saturday 15th May - Burley Trojans Tournament

6th March 2010
BRADFORD CITY 0 v 3 CESTRIA GIRLS

Today City hosted Cestria Girls who are the WRGFL U14 Division 1 Champions following their win against Idle yesterday. So well done to Lee, Dawn and all the girls and parents of Cestria for a fantastic first season in the WRGFL. The sun was blazing and the pitch was in excellent condition as Cestria got the game underway. Cestria were immediately on the offensive and with only 3 minutes gone a corner was flicked on for Zoe to head just over. Cestria continued to press and for the most part had better possession and created the better chances. City changed their tactics for this encounter trying to man mark the Cestria forwards with Ree have the pleasure of marking Zoe in midfield. On 23 minutes a Cestria shot at goal saw Amee save the ball with her feet but the follow up was put away to give Cestria the lead. Two minutes later saw a bad injury to Katie who twisted her leg and unfortunately had to leave the field unable to return. Three minutes later a ball in from a corner was partially cleared but fell to a Cestria player who (by a bit of ball watching by the defence) had time to pick her spot and fire home. Two minutes later saw Jess receive the ball just inside her own half. She took it on and beat two players only to see the Cestria goalkeeper come off her line quickly to make a brave save. At this point Cestria were in control of the game but City were battling hard and weren’t making it easy for Cestria to create clear cut chances trying to pressure the ball. Half time City 0 Cestria 2.The second half progressed with Cestria again having more possession and City closing down and trying to catch them on the break. The pace of the game was fast and the effort put in by both teams was commendable. On 48 minutes a ball in to the box found a Cestria player and with the City defence stretched she finished with a simple tap in to put Cestria 3 up. City probably had their best spell of the game in the final quarter of the second half and we kept plugging away to try and get a goal but the Cestria defence held strong. Final score City 0 Cestria 3. Congratulations to Lee and Cestria for a deserved victory and for becoming league champions with 100% record. Thanks to all the Cestria parents for making the trip down to Rawdon Meadows. You really are a good bunch! Today we were beaten by a good team but our performance was very encouraging and everyone showed great commitment and you never gave up. We probably missed Molly for her energy, skill and ability to break play up but the girls who stood in did a fantastic job. Everyone put in a shift today and worked really hard. Special mention to Sophie Varley who showed that Centre midfield is her natural position and Abbie Thompson and Jess who got a mention in Cestria’s write up for their performance. Well done to all and thanks for the support from the parents!
Next game is away to Huddersfield on Saturday 13^th March. Kick off 10:30am meet at Huddersfield 9:45 a.m.

28th February 2010
League Shield

BRADFORD CITY   4    v    1    Killinghall Nomads
Jessica McPherson
Sophie Varley
Chloe Nash
Rhiannan Brewster

Today City hosted Killinghall Nomads in the Shield. Killinghall are an 11 a-side team who play in Division 2 or our league. The pitch was slightly heavy following the rain. The game got underway and straight away City put pressure on Killinghall and were rewarded with an early goal after 1 minute when a ball to Jess saw her slot it past the keeper. City continued to pressure the Killinghall goal and despite having quite a number of chances couldn’t find the killer finish to extend their lead. At this point City were stretching the Killinghall defence with good wide play from Annie on the left and from Abbie on the right who was making some great runs from defence. On 25 minutes a ball played down the right to Sophie saw her put a high cross into the box which sailed over the keepers head and crept into the far corner of the net. For the remaining time left in the half City had more chances but again failed to capitalise. The most notable chance being a great left foot shot by Ree which hit the post. Killinghall continued to defend well with their keeper having a great game and showing excellent positioning and ball handling. Half time City 2 Killinghall 0.The second half kicked off with Ruth donning the keepers top and gloves and Amee playing in defence. Six minutes into the half saw Chloe hit the bar with a great shot. 2 minutes later saw the best Killinghall attack of the game when their number 15 took the ball on down the left to score a very good goal to make it 2-1. On 44 minutes a right footed shot by Chloe was pushed round the post by the keeper. On 47 minutes a fantastic run by Molly from inside her own half saw her beat 4 Killinghall players only to see her eventual shot blocked by a defender. On 50 minutes a ball to Annie saw her right footed shot go just wide. 3 minutes later a ball played in to Chloe saw her turn and score a great goal to make it 3-1. On 57 minutes Ree made a great run through the middle beating 3 players but shot just wide. 2 minutes later a weak kick out by the Killinghall keeper saw the ball go to Jess who beat the defenders but the keeper made another good save to deny her a second goal. On 64 minutes Ree again received the ball and made another run at the defence through the middle beating 2 players and this time she rifled the ball into the net for a great goal. Final score City 4 Killinghall 1. Thanks to Scott and the Killinghall girls for an entertaining game today. You never stopped trying and continued to battle and defend well throughout. Your goalkeeper was given girl of the game by our players for an excellent performance. Good luck with the rest of your season. This was another good City performance which saw us passing the ball well, supporting each other and creating plenty of chances. We dominated the game from start to finish today by playing good controlled football but more importantly by playing as a team. All the girls played well today and it was nice to see Abbie making those great runs from the back again. Well done girls! Next game is in at home to Cestria on Sunday 7^th March. Kick off 10:30am meet at Rawdon Meadows 9:45 a.m.

Today City visited Oakworth for what was to be our third meeting in Citys last five games with the previous two encounters proving to be tough games. The game was played at Long Lee Primary School on a pitch smaller than what City are used to and with three quarter size goals. Oakworth kicked off on a pitch that was still thawing due to the cold weather and with the sun blazing down. The initial encounters saw no clear cut chances from both sides with City having more possession. On 14 minutes a ball down the left found Chloe who’s shot went just over. A couple of minutes later a high ball in from the right from Sophie saw the keeper unfortunately drop the ball and Jess was on hand to finish. On 20 minutes a great shot from the edge of the box by the Oakworth number 10 was pushed around by Amee for a corner. 3 minutes later another shot this time by the Oakworth number 20 went just wide of the post. At this point City were mainly controlling the game but Oakworth were getting chances by City failing to get a head on the ball and Oakworth pressing the second ball. Just before the half hour an Oakworth corner was collected well by Amee who made a quick kick out to Becky. She took the ball down the left and found Jess who played the ball into Sophie who had time to control the ball and pick her spot in what was the best move of the game so far. A minute later Molly played the ball to Jess who showed great skill to evade the defenders. She crossed the ball and although it looked like it was going to run out for a dead ball Sophie slid in and scored her second of the game. On 33 minutes Oakworth scored the goal of the game when the ball fell to Luka on the left hand side of the box. She wasted no time in smashing the ball over Amee and into the roof of the net for a goal that no keeper would have stopped. Half time Oakworth 1 City 3. City kicked the second half off and straight away Oakworth created a good chance when the number 11 received the ball and shot only for Amee to push the ball away. On 38 minutes another Ree special rocked the crossbar with the ball falling to Molly who finished nicely. Five minutes later another Oakworth corner was cleared by Sophie who found Chloe. She played a great ball in for Jess to produce a great finish. On 52 minutes another Oakworth shot sailed just wide. Six minutes later the Oakworth number 11 who was showing great determination in the tackle took the ball on down the left but her shot went just wide. 5 minutes later another shot by Oakworth brought a great save from Amee. Full time Oakworth 1 City 5. Thanks to Steve and the Oakworth girls for another good entertaining game today. This was the best that City have played against Oakworth in our last three encounters and the game in my opinion revolved around 3 areas. The first was good finishing by City although I'm not sure Steve will see it that way :-) The second was our inability or should I say reluctance to get a head on the ball and this definitely put us under undue pressure on the second ball. The third was the ability of Luka the Oakworth number 17 to consistently deliver quality corners time after time and the fact that Oakworth wanted to get a head on the ball and score. This did test our defence. Apart from the heading issue our defence played well today with Ruth having one of her best games. All the team played well today and it was nice to get a good result after last weeks disappointment. Well done girls!
Next game is in the Shield on Sunday 28th February at home to Killinghall Nomads. Kick off 10:30am meet at Rawdon Meadows 9:45am.

City welcomed Wigton Moor United to Rawdon Meadows today for what was expected to be another hard battle as we beat them in our last encounter so revenge would be on their agenda. Due to holidays and illness Howard could only field nine fit players but City knew that it was still going to be an extremely hard game as Wigton have some quality players and a good battling spiritThe game kicked off and the early encounters were fairly level between the teams. On 6 minutes a Wigton free kick saw the ball hit the bar and fall in the box and luckily for City Ree made a great clearance under pressure from Julianna. A minute later a ball played through to Julianna from Erika saw her shot go just wide. At this point City were struggling to clear their lines as Wigton forced several corners one of which almost resulted in a goal but was jointly cleared by Amee and Charlotte. Chloe played a great ball through to Jess on the left but she was unable to find the net. Minutes later Chloe the provider turned attacker when a great left foot shot was saved by the keeper. After 20 minutes the game was fairly evenly poised but the better chances had fallen to Wigton who were battling for every ball. After 27 minutes Julianna played Erika in for what would have been the first goal but for a lifesaving tackle by Katie who was Citys best player at this point. 2 minutes later a great curling shot from Chloe brought the save of the game from the Wigton keeper who made a superb diving save to her right. After 34 minutes a ball played to Ree was struck well but unfortunately hit the bar. Half time 0-0. The second half got underway and it was felt that City needed to get to grips with game more and use the extra players to stretch Wigton and make them work harder. The match continued to be a fairly even affair with chances on both sides and this made for a very entertaining game. Any thoughts that Wigton would tire were dispelled as they battled for every ball and backed each other up at every opportunity. With about 10 minutes to go a ball played to Erika on the right saw her cut in and curl the ball into the left hand corner of the net. Full time City 0 Wigton 1. Although we didn't play bad and there were some good individual performances (Katie to name one), our team play and passing definitely let us down today girls. Wigton came here to battle and get something out of this game and to be honest they never looked like a team with only nine players. We should have maybe's changed our tactics at half time to put more pressure on the Wigton defence but thats hindsight now. As I said we didn't play bad but not as good as we can and take nothing away from the Wigton girls who battled and competed all game. Well done to Howard and his girls. Next game is on Saturday 20th February away to Oakworth. Kick off 12:30am meet at Long Lee Primary School at 11:45am (postcode BD21 4RU).

Firstly, a big welcome to Sophie Varley who has joined the team and will give us more options with her skills. City kicked off and it was noticeable that there was more urgency and purpose to their play than some of their starts this season. They immediately pressed Oakworth back with some good passing and kept the pressure on. Molly in particular was running at the Oakworth defence at every opportunity. After 4 minutes a ball played through the middle found Jess who took the ball on and finished well. City continued to press but Oakworth were showing some dogged defending and were finding it difficult to get out of their own half. A corner on 12 minutes saw the ball fall to Abbie who's shot was cleared off the line. On 17 minutes a shot from Molly who got herself into a good position went just wide. On 21 minutes the ball found the Oakworth forward but this time she was supported by the number 17 who linked well and created their first real chance of the game. This was a warning to City that this girl was a real threat with her pace and skill. City continued to press but Oakworth seemed more settled and were defending well. On 27 minutes a ball to Molly saw her cut in from the left and fire across the keeper to put City 2 up. Half time Oakworth 0 City 2. The second half got underway and it was felt that City could extend their lead with more pressure and a bit better finishing. On 42 minutes the ball fell to Sophie and although the ball got a bit under her feet she managed to dig out a great shot from 20 yards which flew just wide. On 49 minutes an Oakworth attack saw a good chance but the shot went wide. On 53 minutes a shot by Ree went just wide of the post. After 58 minutes the Oakworth number 17 made a great run down the right which City defended. However, from the resulting throw in she again ran at the City defence and this time scored a great individual goal to make it Oakworth 1 City 2. Oakworth’s heads were up now and they were definitely playing with more confidence. The game was in the balance now with the next goal crucial for both sides. On 66 minutes Chloe played a great ball through for Jess who rounded the keeper to finish and make the points safe for City. Full time Oakworth 1 City 3. Thanks to Steve and his girls for another hard game which was hard fought to the end. Credit to all his girls but special mention to the No. 17, Luka, who showed a great turn of pace, scored a very good individual goal and was always prepared to run at the City defence. All in all a good City performance who were in control for long periods of the game but weren't clinical enough at finishing especially in the first half. The pleasing thing about this game was that we started well and looked up for it compared to some previous games. Well done girls for a good solid performance. Next game is on Saturday 13th February at home to Wigton Moor. Kick off 11:30am meet at 10:45am.

Today Bradford City were up against Huddersfield Town Ladies. When the teams met earlier this season the game was played in gale force winds and because of this neither team really got a good look at each other. City won 3-1 but in fairness the wind spoiled the game as neither side could get to grips with the game. Having spoken with other managers we know that Huddersfield are a good team who like to get their passing game going and a hard game was expected. The game kicked off and was fairly tight in the early stages with both sides defending well and no real chances created. A free kick by Ree saw her play the ball over the Huddersfield defence for Jess to collect but her finish just went wide. A couple of minutes later Ree again played Jess in through the middle and this time she made no mistake and finished neatly to put City one up. After 12 minutes a ball played to the right saw a Huddersfield player shoot just wide and remind City that they would have to defend well to win the game. After 18 minutes Ree received the ball up on the right hand side of the box. She played the ball into the middle for Jess who played a nice one two and Ree calmly finished. Huddersfield continued to press forward and play good football and City were caught a few times with a straight ball through the middle which caused problems for our defenders. On 28 minutes a ball through to a Huddersfield forward saw her slot home to make it Huddersfield 1 City 2. Huddersfield had a chance to level on 34 minutes when another ball through the middle saw confusion in the City defence but luckily the ball rolled just wide of the goal. Half time 2-1 to City. The second half got underway and Huddersfield immediately pressed City back and had a couple of good chances to put the game level but failed to capitalise. City regrouped and started playing the ball around better with Molly playing her colleagues in with some great passing. On 54 minutes another ball through to Jess saw her one on one with the Huddersfield keeper. The keeper was quick off her line but Jess's blistering pace saw her get to the ball first but the brave keeper spread herself well and stopped Jess putting City further ahead. A minute later Jess received the ball out on the right and played a great ball into the middle for Molly to flick home. Again Huddersfield kept pressing and a free kick saw the ball go just over the bar. On 49 minutes Molly played Jess in again and her first attempt hit the post but she was first to react and scored at the second attempt. After 59 minutes Jess cut in from the right and fired home across the keeper. On 68 minutes Jess hit the bar and a minute later Abbie make a great run down the right but her shot went just wide. Final score Huddersfield 1 City 5. Thanks to Ian and his girls for a very entertaining game and one which was hard fought to the end. All the girls played well but special mention to the Huddersfield goalkeeper who made some great saves. Their No 21 who is skilled and creative in midfield and their No 5 who is quick, very strong and always looked to run at the City defence (Chaz has more than a few lumps and bruises to prove this). City made their usual slow start but picked the pace up as the game went on. All in all a decent City performance against a good team who are well organised. Jess showed some good clinical finishing. Our passing game is progressing well and Molly had a great game looking up and finding colleagues with some great passes. Ree....you just get better and better! Well done girls. Next game is on Saturday 6th February away to Oakworth. Kick off 11:00am.

12th December 2009

BRADFORD CITY 9 RIPON CITY PANTHERS 0
Jessica McPherson 5

Abbie Thompson 2

Chloe Nash 1

Amee Ruszkai 1

Today Bradford City welcomed Ripon City Panthers to Rawdon Meadows in the 2nd round of the County Cup. Ripon play in the 9 a-side York league. The pitch was slightly heavy but not as heavy as last weekend and the game got underway with City taking control from the off. After only one minute Molly picked up the ball on the left hand side of the Ripon area and fired a shot which was well saved by the keeper. Jess was first to react and slotted home to put City one up. After 4 minutes Molly again running at the Ripon defence played a lovely ball into the box from the right for Jess to neatly finish to put City 2 up. Credit to Ripon who never let their heads drop and kept battling and for the next 15 minutes stopped City from creating any clear cut chances. Abbie looked as though she had drawn the short straw again as the Ripon No 10 was strong in the tackle and knew how to use her weight in a challenge. After 20 minutes Annie pressured a defender on the left hand side of the box winning the ball, turning and firing a left footed shot which was well saved by the Ripon keeper. A minute later City went 3 up when the ball fell to Chloe who from 10 yards out calmly lobbed the keeper with her right foot. 4 minutes later Jess got her hat rick with a trademark goal when the ball was played through for her to leave the defenders and slot home. After 28 minutes another ball played through by Molly saw Jess take the ball on and fire home for her fourth of the game. Half time City 5 Ripon 0. City changed it round for the 2nd half and Ruth went in goal to give Amee a run out and Abbie moved to right midfield where she played the last 10 minutes in the game against Oakworth. Although Amee has played very well in goal for us this season she is also a very good outfield player with good skills and she showed this after only 3 minutes. The ball came to her with her back to goal. She flicked the ball up over her head and turned and hit it but the effort was well saved by the keeper. The ball ended up coming back to her and she fired home for Citys sixth. Three minutes later Abbie made a great run down the right and fired a great ball into the area which flew in over the keepers head to giver her her first City goal. As I said earlier credit to the Ripon girls who never let their heads drop and after 55 minutes some great play by the Ripon No 8 nearly resulted in a goal in their best attack of the game. After 63 minutes Abbie set off on another run and fired in a great shot across the keeper but the ball went just wide of goal. Four minutes later a good ball in from a corner saw the ball fall to Jess who rifled the ball into the roof of the net for her fifth. Two minutes later saw Abbie fire a shot at goal from 25 yards but unfortunately for Ripon the ball squeezed through the keepers arms and into the net. Final score City 9 Ripon 0.

A good performance by City who got off to a better start than normal. Although everyone played well today special mention should be made to Annie who played what was probably her best game so far showing her pace down the flanks and crossing some great balls into the box. Abbie showed that she has adapted well to playing right midfield and got a couple of good goals. Also, Jodie did a great job moving into defence and fitted in nicely. Our defence was solid, the midfield controlled the game and Jess was at her best with some great finishing. Well done to all!

Thanks to Chris and his girls for making it an enjoyable game. Credit must be given to his girls who are a 9 a-side team and the move up to 11 a-side especially on a pitch as big as ours was always going to be a big task. Their keeper had a great game and made some excellent saves and their No 10 showed great strength in the tackle and battled well all game. Next game is after the Festive break and details will be advised nearer the time Finally, I’d like to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

6^th December 2009

BRADFORD CITY  2          OAKWORTH 0
Jessica McPherson 2

Today Bradford City welcomed Oakworth to Rawdon Meadows. The teams have already met once in a pre-season friendly with City claiming the honours. The pitch was quite heavy in places but playable. The game kicked off and although both teams had their fair share of possession there weren’t any clear chances with both midfield and defences dominating. As the game progressed City struggled to get into any rhythm and with Oakworth battling hard it looked like it was going to be tough game. On 14 minutes the ball was played to the Oakworth No 8 who turned and shot but the attempt was saved by Amee. A minute later Ree played a great through ball for Jess to run onto and she calmly slotted home to make it 1-0. Oakworth kept their heads up and continued to make life difficult for City. Oakworth’s No 11 showed great pace, skill and determination in the tackle and Abbie had to be at her best to contain her. After 30mins Chloe let loose with her left foot but the keeper made a great save pushing the ball onto to the bar to stop a goal. On 33 minutes Abbie made a great run forward and shot from 20 yards but once again the keeper made a great save to keep the score at 1-0. City were now starting to play better football and were putting Oakworth under more pressure. Half time City 1 Oakworth 0.The second half kicked off and after 5 minutes Chloe had another shot from distance which was cleared and from the following scramble Oakworth cleared off the line. At 1-0 you never feel comfortable as one slip would let Oakworth back in the game. 3 minutes later the ball was played through to the Oakworth No 9 who, fortunately for City, failed to score from a good opportunity. After 52 minutes a free kick awarded to City was taken by Ree and the ball was scrambled into the net by Jess to put City 2 up. On 60 minutes a change in tactics saw Abbie move into midfield and after 63 minutes she went on a run down the right which resulted in a great shot on goal which just sailed over the bar. 3 minutes later Jess had a chance which was saved by the Oakworth keeper who was having a great game. Final score City 2 Oakworth 0.

For whatever reason City were slow out of the blocks today and not for the first time in a game. Combining this with a dogged Oakworth performance made the going tough and although we moved up a gear towards the end of the first half it remained 1-0 until 52 minutes. All in all I think we deserved the victory but we made hard work of it. In my opinion the heavy conditions doesn't suit our style of football.

Thanks to Steve and his girls for making it a tough but enjoyable game.

Next game is at home in the County Cup on Saturday 12^th December against Ripon Panthers. Kick off is at 10:30 meet at 09:45.

21st November 2009

BRADFORD CITY 0 CESTRIA GIRLS 5
Today Bradford City welcomed Cestria Girls from the North East. The teams have already met once in this season with Cestria taking the honours. On our last encounter with Cestria, City found themselves 4-0 down after 17 minutes and were determined to get off to a better start and not concede early. City kicked off with the pitch slightly heavy but very playable. This did not stop the game from being played at a fast pace by both sides. Cestria are a great side who pass and move the ball well. They have some quality players and will punish you if you don’t compete against them. City are an improving side and were looking forward to the challenge. Both sides were trying to dominate and in fairness the early chances fell to Cestria with a good shooting chance going wide after 10 minutes. The game continued with City battling hard to stop Cestria from creating. Both sides were competing for every ball and the effort both teams were putting in was making for a great game. After 23 minutes the Cestria No 10 had a shot at goal and only a great save by Amee kept the score at 0-0. A minute later a weak kick out from a goal kick saw the ball go to Jess who took it on but her shot was stopped by a great save from the Cestria keeper. After 32 minutes the ball was played to the right and a Cestria player played a neat ball through for their forward who made no mistake in finishing. Half time Cestria 1 City 0. Cestria kicked off the second half and City continued to battle and compete to try and get forward to create chances for an equaliser. 18 minutes into the half and a ball played out to right was picked up by Cestria and the player cut inside to fire home to make it 2-0. A minute later the Cestria midfielder picked up the ball in the middle and took it on before firing home to make it 3-0. City didn’t give up and kept battling to try and get something out of the game. After 59 minutes a deflected shot was heading for the right hand corner of the City goal only for Amee to make the save of the game with a superb diving one handed save. After 68 minutes a fairly slow shot to the left corner of the goal saw the ball roll over the line to make it 4-0. A minute later Cestria made it 5-0 when a ball in from a corner fell to the Cestria forward who turned to fire home. Final score City 0 Cestria 5. Although this was a worse score than the first game we played Cestria the City performance was actually much better. Although Cestria deserved to win the game I think the scoreline didn’t reflect the effort put in by our girls. We competed well for most of the game and had several chances of our own. We are still a relatively new side and will improve especially playing teams like Cestria. It was a great game today and for the first hour we gave it our all but Cestria’s fitness showed in the last 10 minutes. Well done City for giving us a ggreat battling performance! Thanks to Lee, Dawn, the parents and the Cestria girls for making it a great game. You are all a credit to your club and the game. Many thanks to Bev and Gaynor for providing the food for the girls at the end of the game. Much appreciated.Thanks to the parents for your continued support.

14th November 2009

Idle Juniors 3 BRADFORD CITY 2
Jessica McPherson 2

Today Bradford City visited Idle Juniors who are our local rivals. The teams have already met once this season with Idle claiming the victory. The game got underway with Idle closing down City as soon as they got possession and pressing them at every occasion. After only 3 minutes a straight ball through the middle of the City defence saw the Idle forward run on to it and fire home a shot to put Idle one up. After 10 minutes the ball was played through the Idle defence for Jess to run onto and round the keeper but the ball ran too wide for her to make the strike. The game continued with Bradford struggling to get to grips with game and Idle enjoying the better possession. After 15 minutes Idle scored a second when once again a ball through the defence was picked up by the Idle forward who lifted the ball over Amee to net. After 28 minutes another ball through to Jess saw her leave the Idle defence but once again the ball overran and City failed to capitalise. 2 minutes late City pulled one back when Jess picked up a ball in the box and neatly slotted home to make the score Idle 2 City 1. This gave City a boost and they started to compete more but unfortunately just before halftime Idle struck again when a ball into the area was not cleared and the Idle forward poked the ball home from close range. Half time Idle 3 City 1.

After a stern half time talk City kicked off the second half with more determination and purpose and started to play good football passing the ball well and playing as a team. They continued to press Idle back and after only 3 minutes Jess received the ball and rounded the keeper but her eventual shot went wide of the goal. City continued to play good football with some great passing and moving and for the best part of the rest of the game had Idle penned into their own half. After 47 minutes City got a deserved second when a ball over the top by Ree was picked up by Jess who made no mistake in slotting the ball home. City continued to press the Idle goal looking for an equaliser but a combination of good defending by Idle and the lack of that little bit of luck saw the game finish Idle 3 City 2.

Thanks to Aidy and his girls for another very close game. A poor start by City and the inability to stop Idle coming through our defence in the first half did the damage. Credit to Idle who took their chances well and defended the lead in the second half. On another day City could have got an equaliser or perhaps even nicked a winner on our second half performance which was very pleasing. Well done girls!

Our next game is at home to Cestria in the League Cup on Saturday 21^st November at Rawdon Meadows. Kick off 11:30. Meet 10:30 to10:45.

8^th November 2009

WIGTON MOOR UNITED 1 BRADFORD CITY 3 (County Cup)
Jessica McPherson 3

Today Bradford City visited Wigton Moor United to play in the U14 Girls County Cup. The teams have already met twice this season with Wigton winning on both occasions. A minutes silence was well observed by all. The game got underway with both teams looking to take control. City were determined not to let Wigton dominate the midfield as had happened in their last encounter. There were few chances in the opening 15 minutes apart from one clear opening when a Wigton player was through on goal only for Charlotte to quickly make up ground and stop the shot with a great tackle just as the forward was about to pull the trigger. The match was fairly even with Wigton just edging possession. Although they created chances, City defended well and Wigton failed to capitalise. In midfield Ree, Chloe and Molly were battling for every ball and continually broke up the Wigton play not letting them settle. After 33 minutes City were rewarded with a goal when Jess used her pace to find space and finish well to put City one up. Two minutes later she added a second when she hooked the ball in from a throw in to put City further ahead. Half time Wigton 0 City 2.The second half kicked off and as expected Wigton tried to pressure City to get back into the game. City knew they would have to put in a good, strong second half performance to stop Wigton getting back into game as last time we played them they were 2-0 down but ended up winning 6-2. With Wigton pressing again there was a bit of confusion in the City defence (for the first time) and the ball was fired home by a Wigton player to make it Wigton 1 City 2. Game on! However, two minutes later Jess took advantage when a great distance shot by Ree could only be parried by the goalkeeper and Jess reacted first to slot the ball home for City’s third. Wigton being the excellent team they are kept pressing to get back into the game and in fairness had the better of the possession for the remainder of the game with City trying to catch them on the break. However, City’s defence stood strong with Amee making a couple of good saves to keep the score at 3-1. At the other end Jess had a couple of great chances going through one on one with the keeper but she was denied on both occasions by two great stops. The game ended Wigton 1 City 3.

This was a great result for us and as a team we are improving all the time. Today you battled for every ball and played some excellent football. You backed each other up and played as a TEAM! You wanted this win and everyone played a great part in a great victory. Wigton are an excellent side who are well organised and skilful. The effort today was fantastic and this is your best performance since we started 11 a side. Well done to all of you. Thanks to Howard and his girls for another very entertaining game.

Our next game is away to Idle on Saturday 14th November at Apperley Bridge. Kick off 11:00. Meet 10:00 to10:15 at Apperley Bridge.

Today Bradford City welcomed Wigton Moor United who were last years U13 Division 1 Champions. The teams have already met once in a pre-season friendly with Wigton winning 5-0.
Wigton kicked off and were quickly into their stride passing the ball well and putting pressure on City from the start. With Wigton pressing the ball fell to Ree who played a great ball over the top of the Wigton defence. The defenders and keeper looked to be favourites to clear the ball but Jess’s electric pace saw her leave the Wigton defenders in her wake and she neatly rounded the keeper to slot home after only 2 minutes. Wigton being the good side they are continued to stick to their game plan with their passing and movement causing City a few problems.

Wigton played some great football, again pressurising the City midfield and defence and creating some good chances. For the next 20 minutes they really tested Bradford’s resolve and threw everything at them but in fairness their finishing let them down and City’s defence held out. After 25 minutes Ree won the ball and played another wonderful ball over the Wigton defence for Jess to collect from the left. She rounded the keeper to slot home again for her second. Once again from the kick off Wigton continued to pressure the Bradford goal. After 29 minutes an unfortunate weak goal kick saw the ball fall to a Wigton player who collected the ball and neatly slotted home to pull one back. From the kick off Wigton again pressed hard and poor defending saw Wigton grab an equaliser which in fairness they deserved for all the possession and pressure they put on City. Half time City 2 Wigton 2.

City got the second half under way and very soon the rain started to fall making conditions a bit cold and miserable for both sets of girls. Wigton’s heads were up having got back level before half time and they pressed City hard who to be honest at times looked a bit disjointed but they kept battling. After 42 minutes some good skill and a great shot from 25 yards from a Wigton player saw the ball fly over Amy’s head and into the net. 5 minutes later there was confusion in the City defence and Wigton took advantage and scored again. Another 2 Wigton goals followed through a mixture of pressure and slack defending. Final score Bradford 2 Wigton 6. A good game played in great spirit by 2 teams that like to play football. City are progressing all the time considering they are a newly formed team and Wigton showed they are a quality side and why they won the division last year
We play Wigton again in the County Cup in 2 weeks time and hopefully this will be another good game but perhaps we can reverse the end result.

17th October 2009

BRADFORD CITY 4 BRIGHOUSE JUNIORS 0 (Cup)

Becky Rooks 1
Molly Sharpe 2
Chloe Nash 1

The game kicked off and City made their intention to control the game clear from the start with good controlled accurate passing. With Jess missing up front due to illness this gave Molly and Becky the chance to shine. Four minutes into the game and Becky used her pace to put pressure on a Brighouse defender. She won the ball and cut in from the left firing home from close range. Excellent start for City and a great individual goal Becky. This is what we want you to do every week....pressure defenders with your blistering pace! City continued to press forwad at every opportunity and closed Brighouse down as soon as they got possession. Sixteen minutes into the game saw Chloe claim a goal with a shot from distance which found the right hand corner of the net. Credit to Brighouse who never gave up and came close with a geat individual chance but an excellent save from Amy saw the score stay at 2-0. After 27 minutes Molly claimed her first of the game with a shot into the corner of the net. This was well deserverd for the amount of effort she had put in throughout. 3-0 City half time.

The second half saw Brighouse try to assert themselves on City from the start. They had some good possession and put City under a bit of pressure. Citys defence held strong with Katie and Holly battling hard and Abbie looking after the Blonde Brighouse winger who knew how to use her body to shield the ball. Ruth was solid and showed a great turn of pace making a terrific tackle as a Brighouse attacker was bearing down on goal. Our midfield of Ree and Chloe were working hard feeding excellent balls out to the wings and slipping balls through the Brighouse defence creating chances for City. Annie, Sophie and Jodie showed good determination on the wings and linked up well with midfield and forwards creating chances by delivering some good balls into the box. Amy made some good saves from Brighouse shots showing good positioning and safe hands collecting the ball cleanly. With fifty four minutes gone Molly struck for the second time. The ball came in from a corner and she got the vital touch to send the ball over the line for Bradfords fourth. Final score Bradford 4 Brighouse 0.

11th October 2009

YORK CUBS   1          BRADFORD CITY 5

                              Jessica Mcpherson 3
                              Molly Sharp 1
                              Chloe Nash 1

The game vs York Cubs was played at York Race course Sunday 11th October 2009 10.30 KO

In the first half City started badly conceding a goal in the fifth minute when York scored with a header direct from the first corner of the game. This only roused City into action and when they got the ball out wide they caused York all kinds of problems. All the pressure paid off and shortly before half time Molly Sharpe cleverley put a ball through for Jess McPherson who rounded the keeper to level. The teams went in at half time 1 - 1.

The second half was much of the same with City taking total control. City began to create chance after chance but unlike the first half the rub of the green was with them as they converted a further four chances. Jess McPherson completed an impressive hatrick with girl of the game Molly Sharpe and Coaches girl of the game Chloe Nash also getting on the score sheet.