Big win as Sils as run in extended

Sils travelled to local rivals Solihull Blossomfields for their next encounter which for some reason has developed into a bruising affair in recent seasons with this one to be no exception. With Blossomfield desperate for points and their more experienced and aged players wary of the speed and enthusiasm of the high scoring Sils forward line this had the hallmarks of a game that many of the youngsters wouldn’t have encountered before.

The game opened brightly enough with each side probing hesitantly but it soon came to light that Blossomfields were already playing their 1st team keeper who was by far the busier in the opening few minutes as the free running Sils forwards were starting to make their mark, to block the runs there were some unceremonious obstructions and blocks put in place by the defenders to slow the game down as the sound of stick on stick was heard throughout the midfield battles. The umpires let the game flow as best they could and Sils were by far having the upper hand although unable to turn the chances into goals. Short corners were defended well by both sides as half time approached the game remained scoreless.

As the second half started the Sils forwards were encouraged to take the game to the Blossomfield defence with more intensity and to make use of the subs who rolled on and off to support the onslaught on the by now tiring defence. As Bloss were pegged further back the midfield opened up and Ruth Dovey was able to run at will at the defence as channels became open drawing the forwards into play. Bloss’s main area of attack seemed to be to hit wide and long in the hope of their forwards getting on the end of it or going out of play much higher up the field. With Claire Robinson back the defence was well marshalled and once again gave a good controlled display. The youngsters battled well and didn’t shirk any tackles and continually showed good enthusiasm and running throughout the team to ensure that the ball was kept moving forward at every opportunity.

As the game developed Lilly Evans and Elizabeth Shepherd were given the chance to make their debuts and it was good to see that the conveyor belt of youngsters coming through the ranks is still working well with both giving good accounts of themselves.
As the game proceeded into the last few minutes yet another short corner was awarded to Sils and as it was manoeuvred around the D the ball came to Amy Stainton who having been frustrated all match due to the opposition tactics, smashed it through the keeper for a deserved lead. As Sils saw out the last remnants of the Bloss reprisal the whistle blew and Sils were rewarded in the knowledge that they now have a team to be reckoned with and are at last playing for each other.