In a breathtaking showdown marking the culmination of the season, the mighty Borehamwood 2000 clashed swords with the formidable Hitchin Belles on their own turf. Led by the indomitable Captain Emilia, the stage was set for an epic battle.
Right from the kick-off, it was evident that this was going to be a match to remember. The first quarter raced by in a blur of lightning-fast action, with Olivia showcasing her prowess between the posts, pulling off two magnificent saves in the opening minutes. Surging forwards, Daisy's shot narrowly missed its mark, but it was Elsie who broke the deadlock with a thunderous strike that sent the ball ricocheting off the post and into the net.
The second quarter saw the defence led by Gracie standing firm, frustrating the Hitchin attackers at every turn. It was now time for super cool Sienna to steady the ship and join the defensive ranks making light work of Hitchin’s attempts at goal. Emily stepped up to the challenge of goalkeeping duties admirably, making well timed runs off her line to close down gaps with urgency. Meanwhile, Juniper's solo runs through the midfield were a sight to behold. Emilia proved that she is not only brilliant at dribbling the ball, she is a clinical finisher as well with a shot from outside the box to double the Wood’s goal tally. Like all professional strikers, Ruby used her striker's instinct, adding a third goal with a remarkably well placed shot, leaving the Hitchin defence reeling.
As the game entered its third quarter, Elsie and Daisy demonstrated their telepathic understanding with seamless passing, creating chances aplenty. Daisy's effort rattled the crossbar, but the team's spirit remained unbroken. Gracie, now deployed as a centre forward, kept the pressure on the opposition, showcasing her versatility and confidence.
Entering the final quarter, of not only this game, but the season, Borehamwood played with the same energy as they had in the first. Juniper continued to dominate the midfield, adding two more goals to her name in quick succession. Her first a long range rocket of a shot, whilst her second was a brilliant reactive strike. However, despite Borehamwood's dominance, Hitchin did not make it easy for us, forcing both Sienna and Emily to make vital game changing tackles which prevented the game from slipping away. Ruby's relentless darting runs kept the Hitchin defence on their toes and in a spin, earning her the well-deserved title of Player of the Match. And it was Daisy who put the icing on the cake with a sensational strike, securing Borehamwood's 6th and final goal of the game.
As the final whistle blew, the Borehamwood fans erupted in cheers. It was a thriller to end the season, with every player giving their all on the pitch. The growth in confidence and skill displayed by the team throughout this season is nothing short of remarkable. With great spirit, teamwork, and big smiles all around, Borehamwood had truly capped off a brilliant season in style.
With a highly successful season completed, the club pays tribute to the tremendously devoted and talented staff that have run our U9 Girls to the very highest standards in their debut season. Outstanding female role models have been a plenty with Susie, Lia, Katie & Katy completing a totally awesome job, while pulling it all together and fitting seamlessly into juniors’ football management, Manager Gareth has been an imperious and hugely popular teacher. Well done to all of them and to all of our fab girls who have made the club so proud every step of a simply wonderful 23/24 season!