Blues Women Win As Varsity Looms

The Women’s Blues Football team put in an extremely encouraging performance against Chelmsford City, just two weeks before their Varsity Match on 26th February.

Although Leesa Haydock showed particular individual ability, the 4-1 win was very much a team success.

The Blues made an early impression with Haydock capitalising on Danielle Griffiths’ corner kick. Following the goal, Chelmsford woke up and put the Blues under pressure. But, solid defending from the back kept out any real threat from the opposition. A well-worked break by Cambridge then allowed Mandy Wainright the time to comfortably slot home a rebounded shot.

Emerging from the break with the score at 2-0, both teams raised their game, and sophisticated movement was seen on both sides. A lapse in Blues’ concentration enabled Chelmsford to loft a ball over the Uni keeper and sneak back into the game.

Battling back, and with the wind carrying them forwards, the Blues increased their tempo. Beth McGhee showed great vision in her passing and reading of the game, whilst the defence demonstrated commitment and strength which pushed the team forward.

Haydock’s second goal was a clean strike on the half volley, which the keeper could only watch as it sailed into the net, while her hat trick was sealed just a few minutes later. A powerful strike from outside the box, again left the goalie standing.

At 4-1, the Blues looked comfortable and continued to demonstrate the qualities that put them in good stead for Varsity. In windy conditions, the team kept both control and focus, continuing to work for each other. The potential was there for a higher score line, with Tori Clarkson looking dangerous and Van Thorenburg hitting the post.

In the end, 4-1 told the tale of a deserved win by a team who look in good shape for their meeting with the Dark Blues.

Photos by Amy Jeffs