WSL 2, 25/9/16

Goals : Welsh (55)

After another break in the fixtures Villa Ladies were back in action against Oxford. They gave us a tough game at Coles Lane earlier in the season so knew it wouldn’t be an easy game but one that was winnable.

From the start of the match felt Villa had the upper hand but couldn’t seem to get the ball into the net, Moloney pulled off some good saves to keep us in the game against the top scorer in the league. It was 0-0 at half time but Villa were on top and just needed to keep going and stay focused at the back.

The second half was pretty much the same until Welsh scored (no one deserves that goal more than Kerri, a unsung hero for us at Villa) a beautifully crafted goal that was worthy of winning any game. Once again Moloney kept out the Oxford attack and Villa pushed and pushed coming closer and closer but just couldn’t get that second goal to make it comfortable.

It finished 0-1 to Villa which was a fair result as the way the game went. Hinchcliffe came on off the bench and nearly scored, Oxfords goalkeeper took a knock throwing her body in the way. Rouse and Hinchcliffe both came on and troubled Oxford with attacking pace and skill. A result that finally was deserved by the club and the team.

West was amazing during the game, Talking with the others we couldn’t decided wether West or Moloney was player of the match. But everyone played such a part in the game. Moloney could save the world if ever in trouble. Richards, N’Dow, George, West solid at the back. Cusack, Jones getting the ball in the midfield and not letting anyone get past. Merrick and Mayling causing trouble down the wings and getting the ball into the box for Baptiste and Welsh to attack. Hinchcliffe and Rouse both caused trouble’s for Oxford running at them.

We gave out a few awards that we had the fans had voted for to say thank you to the girls and show them we love each and everyone of them. Each member of the squad received a rose. We said goodbye to Moloney who will be missed but I really hope we see her in the claret and blue next season.

Beth Merrick won the player of the year with Hannah George coming second and Elisha N’Dow coming third.

Amy West won the breakout player of the year as well.

We have two games remaining where we can hopefully add another 6 points to the board. We have Millwall away next and then play the final game at Villa Park against Watford.