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Whistle Blowing Policy

Whistle Blowing PolicyArthur Meadows2023-08-01T22:36:06+00:00

Approved at AGM

6th July 2023

Coton FC fully endorses the FA’s Whistleblowing Policy.

Coton Football Club

1 day ago

Great to be back to football, and what a start for Coton U15 Girls against, new to the Cambs League, Dersingham.

A nervy start, with our midfield losing possession too often. But a solid defensive performance by the ever dependable AJ, and an outstanding display from Annie who’s been too hot to handle all through preseason. We’re expecting great things from her this season. With super alert Cha between the sticks, no way in for Dersingham after their early pressure. And then the girls kicked on. A Tes Kate combo, on to Mads to slip in Shannon for a calm finish. Nice combinations with Kate and Pauline taking over midfield, again Shannon through round the keeper but this time brought down. Shannon stepped up to slot the simple penalty. Lia on now and bringing with her those big throws to send us forward. Drag back from Kate and reverse pass to Emilia, open on the left, to run in and bang into the top corner. Another turn by Kate, bossing that midfield, cross-field ball past everyone for Alice to run onto and hammer first time into the back of the net. Perfect ball by Mads into Alice, and calm strike in off the far post. Mads one-two with Kate and a floated cross that deceived everyone and dropped into the net. Bam overlapping Emilia cut back for the one-two, first touch past the defender. Crying out for a right foot finish, which (left footed) Bam duly accepted, dispatching near post past the diving keeper. Quality goal. And that was only the first half! Out we came again after the break, Pauline collecting the keeper’s clearance, slipped into Emilia run for and great finish. Then some individual mastery from Mads; waiting on halfway for the through ball, she collected out wide, ran to the corner drawing the defenders in, past one, teasing another and in now, across the box, as the keeper came out to block, a bullet was unleashed into the net. Pauline on fire now, brilliant touch to bring the ball down and immediate defence-splitting pass for Emilia to run onto. With time to think and the keeper coming out, Emilia slotted her finish into the far corner. Emilia brilliant again, turning on halfway and then came the pace, charging through and banging in another. Emilia one-two with AJ on the edge of the box and a poked finish. Bam overlapping again, whipped the ball into AJ, pacey, live and direct, round the keeper to thunder her finish. Hand ball, but ref called play and Pauline was first to react, twinkle toes, magic feet, round four defenders and ball to Seyma. Her lovely clip to another Emilia run who slotted into the corner for her sixth! Time for one more, a Bam ball back to Tes, so far out, and where did this come from? A Rocket of a shot, no chance for the keeper and off the bottom of the crossbar, down and back up into the roof of the net. A screamer!

What a way to start the season! Well done girls 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

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Well done girls , great performance 👌💪

The video , was brilliant 👌❤️

Coton Football Club

2 months ago

A huge congratulations to Coton U12 Girls playing in the Histon Tournament earlier today. After pipping Cambridge City to second place in the group phase, the girls went through the gears in the knockout round, putting three past a strong Trumpington team before beating Girls United in the final! Along with the brilliant attacking play today, we had a fantastic defensive performance conceding only one goal the whole tournament. Well done girls!!💪⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

A huge congratulations to Coton U12 Girls playing in the Histon Tournament earlier today. After pipping Cambridge City to second place in the group phase, the girls went through the gears in the knockout round, putting three past a strong Trumpington team before beating Girls United in the final! Along with the brilliant attacking play today, we had a fantastic defensive performance conceding only one goal the whole tournament. Well done girls!!💪⚽️

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Coton Football Club is at Impington Village College.

2 months ago

Congratulations Coton U14 Girls, playing up 2 years in the U16 age group at the Histon Tournament today. And they’ve only gone and won it! 💪⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Congratulations Coton U14 Girls, playing up 2 years in the U16 age group at the Histon Tournament today. And they’ve only gone and won it! 💪⚽️

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What a total group of girls all through the squad , such lovely people ❤️

Coton Football Club

4 months ago

Final game of the season for the U14 Girls in the midweek kickoff on Wednesday evening against Newmarket. With the league already won, this was an opportunity to give everyone a runout and try out some new positions. But with a Newmarket side as standout performers this season having won promotion last season and well and truly cementing their position in the A-league, not to mention the Golden Boot still in play, plus overall team pride at stake, this wasn’t going to be a relaxed evening kickabout. Big respect to Newmarket, treating our girls to a guard of honour for our title win. And then both teams went at each other from the off as we watched another brilliant game to end the season.

A tight first half, with some nice movement, tackling and passes being made by both teams. AJ at centrehalf, setting the tone with those trademark crunching challenges and making sure their quick strikers didn’t get a sniff. She’s had a brilliant first season at Coton and it’s hard to remember the team without her power and pace, constantly mopping up the opposition threat. Charlotte had not felt well before this one, but she put in an outstanding performance between the sticks, her kicking, in particular, fantastic today. Ever alert, collecting balls on the edge of her box, or kicking from outside when needed. Annie was on the right of our back three and her calmness under pressure and strength in the challenge was on display again today. Playing her first full season, whilst still helping out the U15s when needed, meant lots of football for her, and she has been a great addition to the team with her versatility anywhere in defence or midfield. On the other side, Bam has had an incredible season. She goes from strength to strength every week, getting in those tackles when needed, stepping out and linking play down the wing. Really well played all season Bam! In the middle we set up with Mads and Ilazki. Ilazki is another player new to the team this season, but it was clear from all the way back in early August when we started preseason that not only was she going to improve the team with her great ability, bravery, touch, picking out a pass, popping up with goals, all that, but also that she was great fun, and has become a very popular teammate amongst the group. A brilliant addition and we’re really happy she chose to join us. To say Mads has been a pivotal reason the title rests at Coton this season would be understating her contribution. Her form has never dipped since back in September. Chipping in with 15 goals (from defensive midfield!), driving her team on in those tough fixtures. We’ve run out of superlatives for her, but a truly wonderful captain and immense talent with a football (that you rarely see her without!) Starting ahead of Mads and Ilazki, in the 8, Pauline was treating us to another incredible performance. She is so silky with the ball, very quick feet, confidence when running, and rarely makes a bad decision when releasing it. Her link up play is second to none in the group, 7 goals this season, including some all important ones in the big games, and honestly a joy to watch when she’s running with that ball, glued to her feet. On the other side, and another debut season, with Lexie having only played a handful of matches but giving us a taste of what she can offer. Some nice skill by Isla set Lexie up to slam in our opening goal, which brought her goal tally to 9 - a very impressive 1 per game, and with strength and pace to burn, we are excited to see what Lexie can bring when playing every week in the group. Again a player who is great fun in training, puts in the effort but also keeps everyone entertained at the same time(!) Moving out wide on the left now, India was charging up and down that wing like she has all season. Goals win football matches, and when we waved goodbye to top-scoring Julie last season we wondered where those goals might come from. But India has stepped up to not only fill those shoes but to equal last seasons goal tally of 22, which at the time of writing puts her in first place for the league golden boot. More impressive then that goals are not the only string to her bow, being one of our most skilful and creative players, right up there with the number of assists and all season a constant threat to defences. Starting up top were Shannon and Isla. Isla making her first start in the team, in only her second game. Since joining the group just before Christmas for training, she quickly showed what she brings to the table with good feet, turn of pace and vicious strike. A really nice layoff to Lexie for our first goal and more to come from her for sure. Shannon has been revelling in the free role, number 10 like her shirt, this season. Popping up in the spaces for the buildup, much improved with quick passing, tracking back to help defend, and fox in the box with neat first time finishes taking her goals into double figures for the season. Halfway into the first half we rolled a big change with Tes, Lia, Kate, Alice, Emilia and Amelie coming on. Tes has had a great season. Often playing alongside AJ in the centre of defence, her composure to take a touch and play out always helps to settle the team and stop us rushing the play. Her speed and strength to get across the opposition strikers has broken down many attacks and her confidence is growing to step out with the ball now too. Although injury meant she missed a chunk of the middle of the season, having her back in the team since February has made a big difference in those important games in the run in to the title. Lia over on the right of defence has been growing into a new role there, giving her an opportunity to get involved in the buildup with her quick first-time passing, or making those important interceptions. Unfortunately for Lia her injury at the start of the season meant she wasn’t part of that early momentum as we took our preseason fitness into the first couple of months, but she still came to support the girls in every game, which epitomises what Lia is about: an awesome teammate whether on or off the pitch, and super popular amongst the group. Kate sat in in the holding role next to Amelie. She has had a really brilliant season, pretty much able to play anywhere on the pitch, scoring and assisting goals. Shows great discipline when asked to sit, and great energy when asked to play forward. She’s another player who has helped out the U15s when asked, and gives 100% in matches and in training. Having players like Kate in the group is what wins titles. Alongside her Amelie, like Isla, playing in her second game for Coton having been training with us every week, is a very exciting prospect. More match time needed to help her understand the rhythm of our game, but already we can see a very special talent in Amelie. Touch, quick thinking, weight of pass, she has it all. Not least demonstrated by a quality turn and pass slipped in for India to chase, cut back across the defender and fire in for our 2nd goal. On the left side, Emilia was now zipping up and down the wing, giving Indie a runout up top. Emilia has had a really solid season, so quick and able to carry the ball at pace, regularly being chosen as player of the match by opposition teams, scoring lots of goals, and playing on both wings either defensively when we up against teams with pace or further forward when we are looking to pressure defences. Her energy and enthusiasm is infectious and she is a massive reason why the team have done so well. On the right, Alice was now commanding that wing. You can see that opponents hate playing against Alice, she is quick, strong and plays right tight up against the defenders, always looking to slip balls to teammates or charge into the box. Having her in the team this season has given us a completely different way to play, and her 14 goals, multiple assists, and overall hold up and link up play has been outstanding. Quick mention also to Katty, who hasn’t been able to play that many games this season and wasn’t able to be at this one, but who’s contribution, especially in the early parts of the season when we had many injuries in the side did not go unnoticed. Very quick feet, a lovely touch and another popular player. Finally a mention to Seyma, who really plays mainly in the U15s but has helped out in a few games this season with her boundless energy and tackling. Massive improvement from her over the course of this season and we know she has had a fantastic season with her U15 team.

Newmarket were fully in this game, only 2 behind and creating chances that had to be carefully defended. We wondered how the second half would pan out, given both teams had secured their league positions, Newmarket in a very respectable fourth place - with only cup winners’ Netherton, last season’s League winners’ Cambs City, and us ahead of them. As it was, our girls stepped on the gas. Feet too quick for the defenders, Indie was fouled way out on the left side, but her free kick was blasted high over everyone including the retreating keeper for her second of the game and a brilliant 22 goals for the season. Following pressure from Emilia, Shannon stole the ball, driving into the area and firing a shot in at the near post. 17 goals for Shannon this season is a brilliant return and very well deserved for her constant running and clever arrival in the danger areas. With only minutes remaining, Alice was back on and playing in her normal position up front. Good pressure from Kate, then Mads and the ball fell to Alice to wriggle through and fire into top bins for goal number 14 for her.

The game was done, the season was done. And we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed it! Some class moments throughout, and smiles from everyone involved. Well done girls, you’re amazing!…But now what are we going to do on Saturday mornings for the next four months!?! 🤔👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Final game of the season for the U14 Girls in the midweek kickoff on Wednesday evening against Newmarket. With the league already won, this was an opportunity to give everyone a runout and try out some new positions. But with a Newmarket side as standout performers this season having won promotion last season and well and truly cementing their position in the A-league, not to mention the Golden Boot still in play, plus overall team pride at stake, this wasn’t going to be a relaxed evening kickabout. Big respect to Newmarket, treating our girls to a guard of honour for our title win. And then both teams went at each other from the off as we watched another brilliant game to end the season.
A tight first half, with some nice movement, tackling and passes being made by both teams. AJ at centrehalf, setting the tone with those trademark crunching challenges and making sure their quick strikers didn’t get a sniff. She’s had a brilliant first season at Coton and it’s hard to remember the team without her power and pace, constantly mopping up the opposition threat. Charlotte had not felt well before this one, but she put in an outstanding performance between the sticks, her kicking, in particular, fantastic today. Ever alert, collecting balls on the edge of her box, or kicking from outside when needed. Annie was on the right of our back three and her calmness under pressure and strength in the challenge was on display again today. Playing her first full season, whilst still helping out the U15s when needed, meant lots of football for her, and she has been a great addition to the team with her versatility anywhere in defence or midfield. On the other side, Bam has had an incredible season. She goes from strength to strength every week, getting in those tackles when needed, stepping out and linking play down the wing. Really well played all season Bam! In the middle we set up with Mads and Ilazki. Ilazki is another player new to the team this season, but it was clear from all the way back in early August when we started preseason that not only was she going to improve the team with her great ability, bravery, touch, picking out a pass, popping up with goals, all that, but also that she was great fun, and has become a very popular teammate amongst the group. A brilliant addition and we’re really happy she chose to join us. To say Mads has been a pivotal reason the title rests at Coton this season would be understating her contribution. Her form has never dipped since back in September. Chipping in with 15 goals (from defensive midfield!), driving her team on in those tough fixtures. We’ve run out of superlatives for her, but a truly wonderful captain and immense talent with a football (that you rarely see her without!) Starting ahead of Mads and Ilazki, in the 8, Pauline was treating us to another incredible performance. She is so silky with the ball, very quick feet, confidence when running, and rarely makes a bad decision when releasing it. Her link up play is second to none in the group, 7 goals this season, including some all important ones in the big games, and honestly a joy to watch when she’s running with that ball, glued to her feet. On the other side, and another debut season, with Lexie having only played a handful of matches but giving us a taste of what she can offer. Some nice skill by Isla set Lexie up to slam in our opening goal, which brought her goal tally to 9 - a very impressive 1 per game, and with strength and pace to burn, we are excited to see what Lexie can bring when playing every week in the group. Again a player who is great fun in training, puts in the effort but also keeps everyone entertained at the same time(!) Moving out wide on the left now, India was charging up and down that wing like she has all season. Goals win football matches, and when we waved goodbye to top-scoring Julie last season we wondered where those goals might come from. But India has stepped up to not only fill those shoes but to equal last seasons goal tally of 22, which at the time of writing puts her in first place for the league golden boot. More impressive then that goals are not the only string to her bow, being one of our most skilful and creative players, right up there with the number of assists and all season a constant threat to defences. Starting up top were Shannon and Isla. Isla making her first start in the team, in only her second game. Since joining the group just before Christmas for training, she quickly showed what she brings to the table with good feet, turn of pace and vicious strike. A really nice layoff to Lexie for our first goal and more to come from her for sure. Shannon has been revelling in the free role, number 10 like her shirt, this season. Popping up in the spaces for the buildup, much improved with quick passing, tracking back to help defend, and fox in the box with neat first time finishes taking her goals into double figures for the season. Halfway into the first half we rolled a big change with Tes, Lia, Kate, Alice, Emilia and Amelie coming on. Tes has had a great season. Often playing alongside AJ in the centre of defence, her composure to take a touch and play out always helps to settle the team and stop us rushing the play. Her speed and strength to get across the opposition strikers has broken down many attacks and her confidence is growing to step out with the ball now too. Although injury meant she missed a chunk of the middle of the season, having her back in the team since February has made a big difference in those important games in the run in to the title. Lia over on the right of defence has been growing into a new role there, giving her an opportunity to get involved in the buildup with her quick first-time passing, or making those important interceptions. Unfortunately for Lia her injury at the start of the season meant she wasn’t part of that early momentum as we took our preseason fitness into the first couple of months, but she still came to support the girls in every game, which epitomises what Lia is about: an awesome teammate whether on or off the pitch, and super popular amongst the group. Kate sat in in the holding role next to Amelie. She has had a really brilliant season, pretty much able to play anywhere on the pitch, scoring and assisting goals. Shows great discipline when asked to sit, and great energy when asked to play forward. She’s another player who has helped out the U15s when asked, and gives 100% in matches and in training. Having players like Kate in the group is what wins titles. Alongside her Amelie, like Isla, playing in her second game for Coton having been training with us every week, is a very exciting prospect. More match time needed to help her understand the rhythm of our game, but already we can see a very special talent in Amelie. Touch, quick thinking, weight of pass, she has it all. Not least demonstrated by a quality turn and pass slipped in for India to chase, cut back across the defender and fire in for our 2nd goal. On the left side, Emilia was now zipping up and down the wing, giving Indie a runout up top. Emilia has had a really solid season, so quick and able to carry the ball at pace, regularly being chosen as player of the match by opposition teams, scoring lots of goals, and playing on both wings either defensively when we up against teams with pace or further forward when we are looking to pressure defences. Her energy and enthusiasm is infectious and she is a massive reason why the team have done so well. On the right, Alice was now commanding that wing. You can see that opponents hate playing against Alice, she is quick, strong and plays right tight up against the defenders, always looking to slip balls to teammates or charge into the box. Having her in the team this season has given us a completely different way to play, and her 14 goals, multiple assists, and overall hold up and link up play has been outstanding. Quick mention also to Katty, who hasn’t been able to play that many games this season and wasn’t able to be at this one, but who’s contribution, especially in the early parts of the season when we had many injuries in the side did not go unnoticed. Very quick feet, a lovely touch and another popular player. Finally a mention to Seyma, who really plays mainly in the U15s but has helped out in a few games this season with her boundless energy and tackling. Massive improvement from her over the course of this season and we know she has had a fantastic season with her U15 team.
Newmarket were fully in this game, only 2 behind and creating chances that had to be carefully defended. We wondered how the second half would pan out, given both teams had secured their league positions, Newmarket in a very respectable fourth place - with only cup winners’ Netherton, last season’s League winners’ Cambs City, and us ahead of them. As it was, our girls stepped on the gas. Feet too quick for the defenders, Indie was fouled way out on the left side, but her free kick was blasted high over everyone including the retreating keeper for her second of the game and a brilliant 22 goals for the season. Following pressure from Emilia, Shannon stole the ball, driving into the area and firing a shot in at the near post. 17 goals for Shannon this season is a brilliant return and very well deserved for her constant running and clever arrival in the danger areas. With only minutes remaining, Alice was back on and playing in her normal position up front. Good pressure from Kate, then Mads and the ball fell to Alice to wriggle through and fire into top bins for goal number 14 for her.
The game was done, the season was done. And we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed it! Some class moments throughout, and smiles from everyone involved. Well done girls, you’re amazing!…But now what are we going to do on Saturday mornings for the next four months!?! 🤔👍⚽️

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I’m going to miss these write ups for a while , 😭, lovely words and a great season from the girls, 🙏💪❤️

Excellent season for all the girls and another detailed report. Many thanks.

Coton Football Club

4 months ago

Coton U14 Girls demonstrated great bouncebackability, after the disappointment of the midweek cup final defeat, to win the league in style today. A first ever league title for a team that has season on season been in the conversation, but never quite made it over the line. That changed today!

The St Ives pitches were in great condition but the morning sun meant our warm up was lacking a bit of intensity. We eased into the game, controlling possession but unable to fashion much. Limited to long shots by the St Ives defensive line, it was quickly becoming clear their keeper was something special. A nervousness started to creep in on the bench, and on the pitch our girls were rushing the passing and guilty of not looking after the ball. A changed formation today, with Shannon and Kate up top. Indie and Emilia providing the width with Pauline in front of Mads and Ilazki in the middle. Our back three of Bam, AJ and Annie looked fully in command, and Cha very comfortable between the sticks. Suddenly a nice break by Emilia and ball back across for Kate to play in Shannon for a nice finish, but as the celebrations began, the girls spotted the lino’s flag was up, and the goal was ruled out. Now a flurry of wasted efforts, the girls looking a bit panicked, St Ives defending well, or their keeper equal to every shot. We’ve been this close in the past only to fall at that final hurdle. Was this going to be one of those days? But then, brilliant skill and vision by Ilazki, picking out Shannon to turn and slide a ball to Kate whose sublime first touch gave her plenty time to pick her spot, in off the post that no keeper could have got to. A water break was needed in the heat and this was an opportunity to introduce Lia and Tes to the game. The single goal didn’t feel enough in a game like this where one error would cost us so much. The St Ives keeper had a massive kick and the high ball wasn’t easy to judge or deal with on a hard dry pitch. Fortunately Cha was on her game as normal today, out quickly to the through balls and calmly(!), collecting in those high bouncing balls. With Mads dictating play and Pauline’s close control running at pace, we didn’t look like this game could go against us, but in football, one goal never feels comfortable. Alice came on up front and immediately changed the dynamic, with the St Ives defence now having to deal with strength and power. India and Emilia were regularly getting in behind their fullbacks now, and had the half gone on much longer, we felt like another goal would have come.

The nervousness of the first half was quickly a distant memory in the second, with the girls starting to move the balls around quickly in the way we’ve become used to. Pauline received a ball from Tes, drove forward for a 1-2 with Kate and the ball threaded to Shannon’s run for an outside of the foot finish. More magic feet by Pauline, and another pass slipped in to Shannon for another great finish. Annie into midfield now, with Mads moving up top. An India corner, and a Shannon controlled finish before signalling her approval to set-piece coach Andy, proud to see his training field work coming off. Mads occupying the attention of their defenders was opening spaces for the rest of the team. Now more Coton dominance on the ball, an Indie-Kate combination, with Indie skinning the defender and forcing a good save but Alice on hand for a tap in with the follow up. AJ into midfield with Lia leading the backline, with Bam and Tes either side. Ilazki to Pauline, a dribble through the defence and a curling effort but the keeper was again there for a quality block, pushing over the bar. Kate again with an assist, feeding Indie to go through, a touch left, a touch right, the keeper making herself big but Indie’s cheeky finish through the legs was top quality. Time running out but time for one last Indie corner, and the set piece routine coming off again; a poked Shannon finish for her fourth and our seventh.

The gulf between the top and bottom teams was evident in the end today, but fair play to St Ives, they’ve improved a lot since we played them at the start of the season, and I’m sure their coaches and supporters will be proud that they weren’t going to make it easy for us today. If we wanted that title, we were going to have to work for it. But that is what we did! Congratulations to all the teams this season. It’s been a brilliant league with every team capable of taking points off each other and some fantastic football played. Couldn’t be prouder to have been a part of it, and it’s the icing on the cake for our girls to walk away league winners this season 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls demonstrated great bouncebackability, after the disappointment of the midweek cup final defeat, to win the league in style today. A first ever league title for a team that has season on season been in the conversation, but never quite made it over the line. That changed today!
The St Ives pitches were in great condition but the morning sun meant our warm up was lacking a bit of intensity. We eased into the game, controlling possession but unable to fashion much. Limited to long shots by the St Ives defensive line, it was quickly becoming clear their keeper was something special. A nervousness started to creep in on the bench, and on the pitch our girls were rushing the passing and guilty of not looking after the ball. A changed formation today, with Shannon and Kate up top. Indie and Emilia providing the width with Pauline in front of Mads and Ilazki in the middle. Our back three of Bam, AJ and Annie looked fully in command, and Cha very comfortable between the sticks. Suddenly a nice break by Emilia and ball back across for Kate to play in Shannon for a nice finish, but as the celebrations began, the girls spotted the lino’s flag was up, and the goal was ruled out. Now a flurry of wasted efforts, the girls looking a bit panicked, St Ives defending well, or their keeper equal to every shot. We’ve been this close in the past only to fall at that final hurdle. Was this going to be one of those days? But then, brilliant skill and vision by Ilazki, picking out Shannon to turn and slide a ball to Kate whose sublime first touch gave her plenty time to pick her spot, in off the post that no keeper could have got to. A water break was needed in the heat and this was an opportunity to introduce Lia and Tes to the game. The single goal didn’t feel enough in a game like this where one error would cost us so much. The St Ives keeper had a massive kick and the high ball wasn’t easy to judge or deal with on a hard dry pitch. Fortunately Cha was on her game as normal today, out quickly to the through balls and calmly(!), collecting in those high bouncing balls. With Mads dictating play and Pauline’s close control running at pace, we didn’t look like this game could go against us, but in football, one goal never feels comfortable. Alice came on up front and immediately changed the dynamic, with the St Ives defence now having to deal with strength and power. India and Emilia were regularly getting in behind their fullbacks now, and had the half gone on much longer, we felt like another goal would have come.
The nervousness of the first half was quickly a distant memory in the second, with the girls starting to move the balls around quickly in the way we’ve become used to. Pauline received a ball from Tes, drove forward for a 1-2 with Kate and the ball threaded to Shannon’s run for an outside of the foot finish. More magic feet by Pauline, and another pass slipped in to Shannon for another great finish. Annie into midfield now, with Mads moving up top. An India corner, and a Shannon controlled finish before signalling her approval to set-piece coach Andy, proud to see his training field work coming off. Mads occupying the attention of their defenders was opening spaces for the rest of the team. Now more Coton dominance on the ball, an Indie-Kate combination, with Indie skinning the defender and forcing a good save but Alice on hand for a tap in with the follow up. AJ into midfield with Lia leading the backline, with Bam and Tes either side. Ilazki to Pauline, a dribble through the defence and a curling effort but the keeper was again there for a quality block, pushing over the bar. Kate again with an assist, feeding Indie to go through, a touch left, a touch right, the keeper making herself big but Indie’s cheeky finish through the legs was top quality. Time running out but time for one last Indie corner, and the set piece routine coming off again; a poked Shannon finish for her fourth and our seventh.
The gulf between the top and bottom teams was evident in the end today, but fair play to St Ives, they’ve improved a lot since we played them at the start of the season, and I’m sure their coaches and supporters will be proud that they weren’t going to make it easy for us today. If we wanted that title, we were going to have to work for it. But that is what we did! Congratulations to all the teams this season. It’s been a brilliant league with every team capable of taking points off each other and some fantastic football played. Couldn’t be prouder to have been a part of it, and it’s the icing on the cake for our girls to walk away league winners this season 👍⚽️

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Well done girls 🤩xx

Great write up

Congrats to the girls and coaches! 😎🎉

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Coton Football Club

4 months ago

So proud of Coton U14 Girls playing for the first time in a cup final this evening against Netherton. A brilliant start and some nice flowing football by our girls, but Netherton held out, defended well and started to come back into the game. As is normally the way between these two teams it was a tense affair for pretty much all of the rest of the game with very little between the sides and no clear chances. As the match looked to be heading to penalties, unfortunately for us, after some Netherton pressure inside our box they managed to score a scrappy one with the ball trickling over our line. The last 10 mins was all us, the girls upping the tempo, looking for that equaliser. But wasn’t to be today. A great experience for both teams and big well done to Netherton. They’ve had a great season and deserved something from it, even if at the expense of our girls. Massive thank you to Dash Aviation Europe, for the super-cool kits our girls wore today. And to all the parents and supporters who cheered our girls on. Even as runners up, it was a great experience and now we’ve got a taste for it, we’ll no doubt want to be back here again 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

So proud of Coton U14 Girls playing for the first time in a cup final this evening against Netherton. A brilliant start and some nice flowing football by our girls, but Netherton held out, defended well and started to come back into the game. As is normally the way between these two teams it was a tense affair for pretty much all of the rest of the game with very little between the sides and no clear chances. As the match looked to be heading to penalties, unfortunately for us, after some Netherton pressure inside our box they managed to score a scrappy one with the ball trickling over our line. The last 10 mins was all us, the girls upping the tempo, looking for that equaliser. But wasn’t to be today. A great experience for both teams and big well done to Netherton. They’ve had a great season and deserved something from it, even if at the expense of our girls. Massive thank you to Dash Aviation Europe, for the super-cool kits our girls wore today. And to all the parents and supporters who cheered our girls on. Even as runners up, it was a great experience and now we’ve got a taste for it, we’ll no doubt want to be back here again 👍⚽️

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Bad luck to our girls. We got so close to a big ending to our season.

Matthew Mortlock

Well done ladies! So close, but still very proud and such an achievement! 🏆 Glad you like the new kit! xx

Coton Football Club

4 months ago

A massive game in the run-in this morning at Coton Rec for the U14 Girls against AFC Rushden & Diamonds Women & Girls C.I.C. Both teams play in cup finals this coming week, and you could sense the importance to put in good performances. And for Coton, sitting behind City and Netherton in the league, but with games in hand, the points in this game were a must for their title hopes. So plenty to play for and lots at stake.

This was the fourth meeting this season between the two teams, one league game, one cup game and a friendly already, so we know each other well and the games are always tense and close. Rushden started the game with their unique playing style, employing a sweeper ahead of a great keeper and behind a quality back line, playing out with confidence brilliantly to a strong midfield and quick attack. Coton similarly moved the ball through the lines looking for powerful hold up by Alice or threading balls into the runs of India and Emilia on the wings, but maybe not with the pace and precision we’ve become used to from our girls. The overnight downpour meant this game was in doubt as puddles had formed, but some early morning pitch work sorted that and by kickoff, the pitch was looking decent and the clear skies added to a lazy feel to both the warmup and early phases for Coton. Without creating anything clearcut, Rushden on the other hand had arrived meaning business and had the lions share of the opening period, and it took strong defensive work by AJ, Tes, Katty and Bam, and Cha alert to the through balls to ensure we didn’t concede any chances. Rushden have some very good midfielders, capable of changing the course of games, so Mads and Pauline had a battle on their hands centrally in front of AJ and Tes, and with Lexie ahead of them in the hole. Bam and Pauline were starting to have some joy on the left with India causing problems for their right back, twisting back and forth before darting into the box, but Rushden defended strongly and we couldn’t make the breakthrough. However, the attention needed for India opened up spaces on the other side for Emilia. Her pace was causing problems for their left back and as she cut back in, a left foot strike whistled just wide. Then more nice work by Emilia and the ball found Alice who flicked out to Lexie to unleash a thunder strike that rattled the back of the net. First blood Coton, but possibly a little against the run of play and Rushden responded well. We were quickly on the back foot as Rushden worked the ball forward. AJ, then Tes cleared the ball. We struggled to get hold of the ball in midfield and our forwards were left stranded and out of the game. The introduction of Kate changed things up, and gave the team a new energy. An absolutely brilliant performance by Kate today, linking play, chasing down the ball and strong in the tackle. Very impressive. Katty made a big clearance, but hurt an already injured ankle, and had to come off. Time to bring on Ilazki and Lia for some calm and composure but still Rushden pressed forward and we were called upon to defend corner after corner. AJ slid into a tackle inside the box and the bench held their breathe but her timing was spot on and the ball cannoned out. But still Rushden came. Another chance for AJ to clear but this time a slip and the Rushden striker was in, shaping to shoot, but Tes to the rescue, charging in to cover and make the block and play out to Bam. The quality of the game was top from both sides, but please could we see more play in their half! Finally the breakthrough was made and Rushden got what their pressure deserved. The ball out wide on our left was worked across the box and their quality midfielder arrived to bang in an effort first time past a diving Cha. The first half was almost done, but the reintroduction of Lexie ignited our play. Great battling and then intelligent play by Kate sent Lexie bursting through and she lifted a shot in and over the keeper to put us one ahead at the break.

Rushden were back out early for the second half as we finished up our team talk. Our bench wondered how long our single goal lead might last with Rushden eager to turn the tide. But this was to be our half as the team collectively put in one of our best halves this season. Lia was right up for the fight today, not giving their winger a sniff and linking nicely with Kate in the middle or Emilia on the wing. AJ and Ilazki looking solid at the back. Indie’s trickery is a nightmare for defences and whilst by her standards maybe a quieter game, the attention needed to stop her opens up all kinds of space for the rest of the team and we were well and truly exploiting it now. A great dummy by Kate, turning their midfield and away, head up and the through ball to Emilia, in for the run. The Rushden Keeper was out to clear but only as far as Lexie. Her effort was blocked, but ever-alert Emilia won the loose ball and fed Alice. No space and defenders tight, but great footwork and Alice danced through with the keeper stranded, firing into an unguarded net. Bam had left early, so Tes was over at left back now. The combinations with Pauline were starting to ask questions of Rushden down that side, and it felt it was only a matter of time before something would come. Mads was having a stormer, no one can live with her when she’s in this mood and she was completely bossing the midfield now. Ball up to Lexie who’d spotted Emilia’s run, and lifted a pass over everyone. So much so, that the high bouncing ball fooled the keeper, and went in. A bit fortunate but we’ll take it and so did Lexie for her hat trick. No let up for Rushden now. Great shielding by Kate on edge of the box drew the foul, and Pauline banged the resulting free kick so hard that their Keeper could only get a light touch to before it found the back of the net. It was relentless now. Great first touch and then vision by Kate half way into their half, seeing the keeper off her line to send her shot up and over into the back of the net. But then a little reminder of the quality Rushden possess, pressure down our right and failure to clear properly meant the ball found their left winger. Her looping shot went over everyone, hard to judge for Cha as she retreated but too late as the ball was over her and in. Ilazki into midfield now to add that bit of quality on the ball, and Mads up top to increase the trouble we were causing the Rushden backline. The game was almost over but just time for that Tesni Pauline combo again; a lovely 1-2, Tes putting Pauline in space for a strike from miles out that the keeper had no chance with. Rushden will feel a little deflated as the scoreline was harsh on such a good side, but with the Coton girls playing the way they did in an almost faultless manner, any team would have struggled. Big smiles from our girls when that final whistle blew.

One point off the top two teams, with two games to play. This result is massive for us. We need to keep our feet on the ground and the cup game on Tuesday is the big one right now. But the girls have treated us to another fantastic display, so maybe just maybe we can dream a little now that that elusive title is within our sights 🙏👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

A massive game in the run-in this morning at Coton Rec for the U14 Girls against AFC Rushden & Diamonds Women & Girls C.I.C. Both teams play in cup finals this coming week, and you could sense the importance to put in good performances. And for Coton, sitting behind City and Netherton in the league, but with games in hand, the points in this game were a must for their title hopes. So plenty to play for and lots at stake.
This was the fourth meeting this season between the two teams, one league game, one cup game and a friendly already, so we know each other well and the games are always tense and close. Rushden started the game with their unique playing style, employing a sweeper ahead of a great keeper and behind a quality back line, playing out with confidence brilliantly to a strong midfield and quick attack. Coton similarly moved the ball through the lines looking for powerful hold up by Alice or threading balls into the runs of India and Emilia on the wings, but maybe not with the pace and precision we’ve become used to from our girls. The overnight downpour meant this game was in doubt as puddles had formed, but some early morning pitch work sorted that and by kickoff, the pitch was looking decent and the clear skies added to a lazy feel to both the warmup and early phases for Coton. Without creating anything clearcut, Rushden on the other hand had arrived meaning business and had the lions share of the opening period, and it took strong defensive work by AJ, Tes, Katty and Bam, and Cha alert to the through balls to ensure we didn’t concede any chances. Rushden have some very good midfielders, capable of changing the course of games, so Mads and Pauline had a battle on their hands centrally in front of AJ and Tes, and with Lexie ahead of them in the hole. Bam and Pauline were starting to have some joy on the left with India causing problems for their right back, twisting back and forth before darting into the box, but Rushden defended strongly and we couldn’t make the breakthrough. However, the attention needed for India opened up spaces on the other side for Emilia. Her pace was causing problems for their left back and as she cut back in, a left foot strike whistled just wide. Then more nice work by Emilia and the ball found Alice who flicked out to Lexie to unleash a thunder strike that rattled the back of the net. First blood Coton, but possibly a little against the run of play and Rushden responded well. We were quickly on the back foot as Rushden worked the ball forward. AJ, then Tes cleared the ball. We struggled to get hold of the ball in midfield and our forwards were left stranded and out of the game. The introduction of Kate changed things up, and gave the team a new energy. An absolutely brilliant performance by Kate today, linking play, chasing down the ball and strong in the tackle. Very impressive. Katty made a big clearance, but hurt an already injured ankle, and had to come off. Time to bring on Ilazki and Lia for some calm and composure but still Rushden pressed forward and we were called upon to defend corner after corner. AJ slid into a tackle inside the box and the bench held their breathe but her timing was spot on and the ball cannoned out. But still Rushden came. Another chance for AJ to clear but this time a slip and the Rushden striker was in, shaping to shoot, but Tes to the rescue, charging in to cover and make the block and play out to Bam. The quality of the game was top from both sides, but please could we see more play in their half! Finally the breakthrough was made and Rushden got what their pressure deserved. The ball out wide on our left was worked across the box and their quality midfielder arrived to bang in an effort first time past a diving Cha. The first half was almost done, but the reintroduction of Lexie ignited our play. Great battling and then intelligent play by Kate sent Lexie bursting through and she lifted a shot in and over the keeper to put us one ahead at the break.
Rushden were back out early for the second half as we finished up our team talk. Our bench wondered how long our single goal lead might last with Rushden eager to turn the tide. But this was to be our half as the team collectively put in one of our best halves this season. Lia was right up for the fight today, not giving their winger a sniff and linking nicely with Kate in the middle or Emilia on the wing. AJ and Ilazki looking solid at the back. Indie’s trickery is a nightmare for defences and whilst by her standards maybe a quieter game, the attention needed to stop her opens up all kinds of space for the rest of the team and we were well and truly exploiting it now. A great dummy by Kate, turning their midfield and away, head up and the through ball to Emilia, in for the run. The Rushden Keeper was out to clear but only as far as Lexie. Her effort was blocked, but ever-alert Emilia won the loose ball and fed Alice. No space and defenders tight, but great footwork and Alice danced through with the keeper stranded, firing into an unguarded net. Bam had left early, so Tes was over at left back now. The combinations with Pauline were starting to ask questions of Rushden down that side, and it felt it was only a matter of time before something would come. Mads was having a stormer, no one can live with her when she’s in this mood and she was completely bossing the midfield now. Ball up to Lexie who’d spotted Emilia’s run, and lifted a pass over everyone. So much so, that the high bouncing ball fooled the keeper, and went in. A bit fortunate but we’ll take it and so did Lexie for her hat trick. No let up for Rushden now. Great shielding by Kate on edge of the box drew the foul, and Pauline banged the resulting free kick so hard that their Keeper could only get a light touch to before it found the back of the net. It was relentless now. Great first touch and then vision by Kate half way into their half, seeing the keeper off her line to send her shot up and over into the back of the net. But then a little reminder of the quality Rushden possess, pressure down our right and failure to clear properly meant the ball found their left winger. Her looping shot went over everyone, hard to judge for Cha as she retreated but too late as the ball was over her and in. Ilazki into midfield now to add that bit of quality on the ball, and Mads up top to increase the trouble we were causing the Rushden backline. The game was almost over but just time for that Tesni Pauline combo again; a lovely 1-2, Tes putting Pauline in space for a strike from miles out that the keeper had no chance with. Rushden will feel a little deflated as the scoreline was harsh on such a good side, but with the Coton girls playing the way they did in an almost faultless manner, any team would have struggled. Big smiles from our girls when that final whistle blew.
One point off the top two teams, with two games to play. This result is massive for us. We need to keep our feet on the ground and the cup game on Tuesday is the big one right now. But the girls have treated us to another fantastic display, so maybe just maybe we can dream a little now that that elusive title is within our sights 🙏👍⚽️

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Thanks for the great match report!

Great match report & a great performance today - well done girls (and coaches!)

Coton Football Club is at Abbey Stadium.

4 months ago

Ten members of the Coton U9 team had a great afternoon representing the club in the Abbey Cup! The opportunity to play at the Cledara Abbey Stadium was a huge thrill for players and coaches alike. The team finished fourth in their group, playing against some tough opponents and giving it their all. It was a wonderful way to round off this season of football! 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Ten members of the Coton U9 team had a great afternoon representing the club in the Abbey Cup! The opportunity to play at the Cledara Abbey Stadium was a huge thrill for players and coaches alike. The team finished fourth in their group, playing against some tough opponents and giving it their all. It was a wonderful way to round off this season of football! 👍⚽️

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They played so well! We are very proud ⚽️🏆❤️

Coton Football Club is at Coton Recreation Ground.

4 months ago

A first ever game for the new Coton U6 team yesterday at the Rec against an equally new Gamlingay team and both sets of players showing off their skills to the many enthusiastic supporters! Gamlingay with enough players for two teams(!) and Coton with a much leaner squad still looking for new players for U7s next season. Never a dull moment in this one, end to end, and with some top quality finishing and tough tackling. Great fun!…

Coton stormed to an early lead in the first quarter; Jacob between the sticks with a clean sheet, James and Huen-Yi the dynamic duo in defence, with Flavio and Gus combining up front for a double Gus hat trick. Quality stuff! In the second, Jacob out on the pitch with Gus taking a turn in goal. Archie and Flavio worked hard in the middle, with Jacob stepping alongside Huen-Yi at the back. But with the Powerplay rule in full effect, the pitch felt crowded with the extra two Gamlingay players, and as Flavio and Archie pressed for more goals, the hit-on-the-break undid us as the Gamlingay striker opened his account for the day. This lifted Gamlingay spirits and they started to create more chances. Nice positioning by Gus on the edge of the box meant an early taken shot went wide, then another chance was stopped on the line by a retreating Jacob. But before the halftime whistle blew, Gamlingay had pulled another back, so the third quarter would start with them having only one extra player. Anna was on now to chase the ball wherever it went and make those tackles to win us the ball back. But Gamlingay had the bit between their teeth and a determination to get back in it. A couple of good saves by Archie, now in goal, but the pressure was mounting and finally told with another well taken goal. If the tide was turning, Jacob had other ideas; a nice James tackle fed Jacob and he stormed forward to bang in a brilliant shot and extend our lead. Gamlingay quickly hit back, running into our box, and a collision meant the penalty was awarded. The Gamlingay striker stroked his shot, but Archie was equal to hit, calmly scooping it up and setting us back on the attack with his throw out to Flavio wide on the wing. Final quarter now. Gamlingay upped the pressure and despite the best efforts of Gus and Jacob creating chances, their defence held firm. Huen-Yi put in a great performance in goal, but we were hit on the break twice more before that final whistle.

A real treat for everyone involved. Lots of very proud parents and supporters, and big smiles on the faces of all the players. Big thank you to Gamlingay for making the trip over to us and we look forward to playing you again soon 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

A first ever game for the new Coton U6 team yesterday at the Rec against an equally new Gamlingay team and both sets of players showing off their skills to the many enthusiastic supporters! Gamlingay with enough players for two teams(!) and Coton with a much leaner squad still looking for new players for U7s next season. Never a dull moment in this one, end to end, and with some top quality finishing and tough tackling. Great fun!…
Coton stormed to an early lead in the first quarter; Jacob between the sticks with a clean sheet, James and Huen-Yi the dynamic duo in defence, with Flavio and Gus combining up front for a double Gus hat trick. Quality stuff! In the second, Jacob out on the pitch with Gus taking a turn in goal. Archie and Flavio worked hard in the middle, with Jacob stepping alongside Huen-Yi at the back. But with the Powerplay rule in full effect, the pitch felt crowded with the extra two Gamlingay players, and as Flavio and Archie pressed for more goals, the hit-on-the-break undid us as the Gamlingay striker opened his account for the day. This lifted Gamlingay spirits and they started to create more chances. Nice positioning by Gus on the edge of the box meant an early taken shot went wide, then another chance was stopped on the line by a retreating Jacob. But before the halftime whistle blew, Gamlingay had pulled another back, so the third quarter would start with them having only one extra player. Anna was on now to chase the ball wherever it went and make those tackles to win us the ball back. But Gamlingay had the bit between their teeth and a determination to get back in it. A couple of good saves by Archie, now in goal, but the pressure was mounting and finally told with another well taken goal. If the tide was turning, Jacob had other ideas; a nice James tackle fed Jacob and he stormed forward to bang in a brilliant shot and extend our lead. Gamlingay quickly hit back, running into our box, and a collision meant the penalty was awarded. The Gamlingay striker stroked his shot, but Archie was equal to hit, calmly scooping it up and setting us back on the attack with his throw out to Flavio wide on the wing. Final quarter now. Gamlingay upped the pressure and despite the best efforts of Gus and Jacob creating chances, their defence held firm. Huen-Yi put in a great performance in goal, but we were hit on the break twice more before that final whistle.
A real treat for everyone involved. Lots of very proud parents and supporters, and big smiles on the faces of all the players. Big thank you to Gamlingay for making the trip over to us and we look forward to playing you again soon 👍⚽️

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Coton Football Club

4 months ago

Seems ages since we last played, so there was a bit of apprehension from the bench as Coton U14 Girls faced up this morning against an ever improving Chesterton team, who beat us in our recent meeting in February. Having had very little football played over the past few months, the pitches at the Rec were looking good, and the light morning rain meant the ball zipped nicely on the surface. Perfect for football.

From kickoff the game quickly settled into what would be the pattern on the game. Bags of possession for our girls, and Chesterton looking to hit us on the break with their powerful midfield and quick wingers. In defence, AJ and Tes had formed a nice partnership, with Tes calmly looking to slot passes in to the midfield or out wide, and AJ breaking down the Chesterton chances and bravely putting her body on the line. Lia and Bam starting as fullbacks built up nicely on both sides, slipping balls up to the wings. Pauline and Ilazki battled hard in the middle and had that touch of class when needed for the little exchanges with Alice up top. Charlotte was to have a quiet day in terms of making saves but the team neatly involved her as we played out; her distribution different class today. Ever dependable Captain Mads kept the whole thing ticking, frustrating Chesterton, giving them no time on the ball and putting in a masterclass of holding midfield play. Alice had had plenty of balls fired into her and used her strength to feed Indie and Emilia on the wings. This time though, deep in the Chesterton box, dancing between the defenders, she laid the ball back to Emilia wide on the edge of the box, who chipped a left foot blinder giving their retreating keeper no chance. That goal settled the remaining nerves and now we really began to play. The chances kept coming and Chesterton made blocks and saves to keep us from going further ahead. Annie and Seyma on now to add power and pace, and it wasn’t long before Seyma gave us a reminder of what she can do, first winning a ball she had no right to, then skipping across on the edge of the box she bent a mean curler through the defence and into the far post. Magic! Next up, before half time, Alice powered a shot centrally that the keeper could only parry, giving Alice her chance to make sure with the follow up. So 3-0 at the break but with a Chesterton still a threat on the break, this game wasn’t done.

A quick stop, both sets of girls keen to get going again. Chesterton looking for a goal to get back in it and our forwards brimming with confidence, wanting to increase the lead. Shannon up front and Alice on the wing, changed the threat. The ball moving quickly and it felt like a chance was coming. But then a moment of sloppiness at the back. A soft corner given away and then failure to clear our lines was punished as the ball fell to the one Chesterton player we wouldn’t want it to, Ella smashing in the finish. But Pauline wasn’t to be fazed, upped her game and directing play in the middle. Organising the play, pointing the passes before they were made. Quality. Forward we go, more pressure on the Chesterton back line. India continually skinning her fullback and opportunities kept coming. A ball out and goal kick taken but, ever alert, Mads stepped out to win it first, a one-two and ball across to Shannon for a first time banger restoring our 3 goal cushion. Not long to go, but more great play, the ball shifted once then twice on the edge of the Chesterton box and finding Emilia who cracked another stunner on her left for our 5th. The clock was almost done, but no game is complete without an immense drive by Alice, powering in on goal and thundering her strike against the woodwork, again!!

Great to be back on the pitch. Chesterton played their part today, but this was their final game of the season, whereas for us, three more weeks of big games, to see how high up this league we can go, and a cup final too. Everything in our hands. Great work girls!! 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Seems ages since we last played, so there was a bit of apprehension from the bench as Coton U14 Girls faced up this morning against an ever improving Chesterton team, who beat us in our recent meeting in February. Having had very little football played over the past few months, the pitches at the Rec were looking good, and the light morning rain meant the ball zipped nicely on the surface. Perfect for football.
From kickoff the game quickly settled into what would be the pattern on the game. Bags of possession for our girls, and Chesterton looking to hit us on the break with their powerful midfield and quick wingers. In defence, AJ and Tes had formed a nice partnership, with Tes calmly looking to slot passes in to the midfield or out wide, and AJ breaking down the Chesterton chances and bravely putting her body on the line. Lia and Bam starting as fullbacks built up nicely on both sides, slipping balls up to the wings. Pauline and Ilazki battled hard in the middle and had that touch of class when needed for the little exchanges with Alice up top. Charlotte was to have a quiet day in terms of making saves but the team neatly involved her as we played out; her distribution different class today. Ever dependable Captain Mads kept the whole thing ticking, frustrating Chesterton, giving them no time on the ball and putting in a masterclass of holding midfield play. Alice had had plenty of balls fired into her and used her strength to feed Indie and Emilia on the wings. This time though, deep in the Chesterton box, dancing between the defenders, she laid the ball back to Emilia wide on the edge of the box, who chipped a left foot blinder giving their retreating keeper no chance. That goal settled the remaining nerves and now we really began to play. The chances kept coming and Chesterton made blocks and saves to keep us from going further ahead. Annie and Seyma on now to add power and pace, and it wasn’t long before Seyma gave us a reminder of what she can do, first winning a ball she had no right to, then skipping across on the edge of the box she bent a mean curler through the defence and into the far post. Magic! Next up, before half time, Alice powered a shot centrally that the keeper could only parry, giving Alice her chance to make sure with the follow up. So 3-0 at the break but with a Chesterton still a threat on the break, this game wasn’t done.
A quick stop, both sets of girls keen to get going again. Chesterton looking for a goal to get back in it and our forwards brimming with confidence, wanting to increase the lead. Shannon up front and Alice on the wing, changed the threat. The ball moving quickly and it felt like a chance was coming. But then a moment of sloppiness at the back. A soft corner given away and then failure to clear our lines was punished as the ball fell to the one Chesterton player we wouldn’t want it to, Ella smashing in the finish. But Pauline wasn’t to be fazed, upped her game and directing play in the middle. Organising the play, pointing the passes before they were made. Quality. Forward we go, more pressure on the Chesterton back line. India continually skinning her fullback and opportunities kept coming. A ball out and goal kick taken but, ever alert, Mads stepped out to win it first, a one-two and ball across to Shannon for a first time banger restoring our 3 goal cushion. Not long to go, but more great play, the ball shifted once then twice on the edge of the Chesterton box and finding Emilia who cracked another stunner on her left for our 5th. The clock was almost done, but no game is complete without an immense drive by Alice, powering in on goal and thundering her strike against the woodwork, again!!
Great to be back on the pitch. Chesterton played their part today, but this was their final game of the season, whereas for us, three more weeks of big games, to see how high up this league we can go, and a cup final too. Everything in our hands. Great work girls!! 👍⚽️

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Great to be back to normal, Saturday nite , Chinese , Coton win, great write up

Great match, great match report :-)

Great work girls. Good teamwork. Great write-up as ever.

Coton Football Club

6 months ago

Coton U14 Girls made the return visit to Cambourne having beaten them comfortably at home in October. Despite this, Coton were taking nothing for granted having recently been humbled away at Chesterton and having noted a big uptick in Cambourne's recent results. And, like the game at Chesterton, this match was to be played on a small pitch against a physical, direct team with some exceptional individual talent.

Coton understood the challenge at hand and played a really solid, patient game: controlling possession and creating enough chances to win the game comfortably and put the coaches and parents at ease. Of course this never happened as the profligacy of the Coton attack combined with the determination of the Cambourne defence and the excellence of their goalkeeper, meant that the outcome was never certain until the final whistle. Alice, extra motivated by playing against her old team, had another outstanding game leading the line for Coton - battling against an uncompromising Cambourne defence and generally coming out on top - only the post, the crossbar and Vicki in sticks for the home side stopping her from scoring. Cambourne were physical and direct but when Coton were able to get the ball down and start playing they looked really threatening with Mads, Pauline, Shannon and Ilazki playing with accuracy and intelligence to work the ball into the space behind the Cambourne left back for India to exploit with her pace. After a couple of attempts saved at the near post and numerous crosses out in the middle, eventually, towards the end of the first half, the inevitable happened and the deadlock was broken with India firing in a chance across the keeper. Coton had played slightly uphill in the first half and with the breeze against them and credit must go to their defence styling alert in the face of a barrage of long balls bouncing awkwardly and unpredictably. Every time AJ and Tes were up to the task, calmly getting the ball under control and either clearing to safety or playing a simple pass to a teammate, as the situation demanded. Their control gave Emilia and Bam the confidence and licence to push forward down the flanks and both of them made excellent contributions both in defence and attack.

An injury to AJ meant a bit of a reshuffle at half time with Mads dropping to centre back and Lia going to right back. Annie also came into the midfield to offer some extra physicality. The second half carried on in much the same vein as the first with Coton controlling possession and territory but struggling to breach the Cambourne defence. India was sent through 1 on 1 a couple of times but the ball ran away from her and Shannon, Alice, Pauline, Bam and Ilazki all had shots from the edge of the box which were either saved by the keeper or whistled narrowly wide. One nil is a dangerous scoreline and although Tes and Lia snuffed out any danger that came their way and cha barely had a save to make, the longer the score remained at one nil, the nervier things became. After several forays by Emilia and Pauline down the right which resulted in half chances and a succession of corners, the second goal eventually came. Emilia found India in space on the left via some sublime skill from Shannon and her left footed strike deflected off a defender and looped over the keeper. Not quite job done, but nearly. The rest of the half played out without too much drama thanks to a vital last ditch challenge from Lia on the Cambourne striker, having tracked back brilliantly. Prior to that Mads and Tes had been majestic in defence despite the big loss of our defensive leader AJ at half time. Cha didn't have a lot to do today but her kicking and distribution were consistently on point as we have come to expect this season. Annie and Ilazki really got control of the midfield by winning the first and second balls time and time again. Last shout out goes to Bam though who put in real shift and created the moment of the match with a Cruyff turn on the edge of her own box to escape 2 attackers. Could have gone horribly wrong (and please never do that again!) but was genius.

Thanks to Cambourne for hosting a cracking game and good luck to them for the remainder of the season 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls made the return visit to Cambourne having beaten them comfortably at home in October. Despite this, Coton were taking nothing for granted having recently been humbled away at Chesterton and having noted a big uptick in Cambournes recent results. And, like the game at Chesterton, this match was to be played on a small pitch against a physical, direct team with some exceptional individual talent.
Coton understood the challenge at hand and played a really solid, patient game: controlling possession and creating enough chances to win the game comfortably and put the coaches and parents at ease. Of course this never happened as the profligacy of the Coton attack combined with the determination of the Cambourne defence and the excellence of their goalkeeper, meant that the outcome was never certain until the final whistle. Alice, extra motivated by playing against her old team, had another outstanding game leading the line for Coton - battling against an uncompromising Cambourne defence and generally coming out on top - only the post, the crossbar and Vicki in sticks for the home side stopping her from scoring. Cambourne were physical and direct but when Coton were able to get the ball down and start playing they looked really threatening with Mads, Pauline, Shannon and Ilazki playing with accuracy and intelligence to work the ball into the space behind the Cambourne left back for India to exploit with her pace. After a couple of attempts saved at the near post and numerous crosses out in the middle, eventually, towards the end of the first half, the inevitable happened and the deadlock was broken with India firing in a chance across the keeper. Coton had played slightly uphill in the first half and with the breeze against them and credit must go to their defence styling alert in the face of a barrage of long balls bouncing awkwardly and unpredictably. Every time AJ and Tes were up to the task, calmly getting the ball under control and either clearing to safety or playing a simple pass to a teammate, as the situation demanded. Their control gave Emilia and Bam the confidence and licence to push forward down the flanks and both of them made excellent contributions both in defence and attack.
An injury to AJ meant a bit of a reshuffle at half time with Mads dropping to centre back and Lia going to right back. Annie also came into the midfield to offer some extra physicality. The second half carried on in much the same vein as the first with Coton controlling possession and territory but struggling to breach the Cambourne defence. India was sent through 1 on 1 a couple of times but the ball ran away from her and Shannon, Alice, Pauline, Bam and Ilazki all had shots from the edge of the box which were either saved by the keeper or whistled narrowly wide. One nil is a dangerous scoreline and although Tes and Lia snuffed out any danger that came their way and cha barely had a save to make, the longer the score remained at one nil, the nervier things became. After several forays by Emilia and Pauline down the right which resulted in half chances and a succession of corners, the second goal eventually came. Emilia found India in space on the left via some sublime skill from Shannon and her left footed strike deflected off a defender and looped over the keeper. Not quite job done, but nearly. The rest of the half played out without too much drama thanks to a vital last ditch challenge from Lia on the Cambourne striker, having tracked back brilliantly. Prior to that Mads and Tes had been majestic in defence despite the big loss of our defensive leader AJ at half time. Cha didnt have a lot to do today but her kicking and distribution were consistently on point as we have come to expect this season. Annie and Ilazki really got control of the midfield by winning the first and second balls time and time again. Last shout out goes to Bam though who put in real shift and created the moment of the match with a Cruyff turn on the edge of her own box to escape 2 attackers. Could have gone horribly wrong (and please never do that again!) but was genius.
Thanks to Cambourne for hosting a cracking game and good luck to them for the remainder of the season 👍⚽️

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Great write up 👌, tough game in the wind girls, but another 3 points , clean sheet , well done 👏

Once more, well played girls. Another excellent write-up.

Coton Football Club

6 months ago

Coton U14 Girls reached the cup final for the first time ever this morning. A nervy start was followed by our girls stepping on the gas in the second against last years’ cup winners, Rushden and Diamonds.

Coton Rec had just about survived the rain of the last few weeks and the pitches were at least looking good, if a little sticky, on a lovely sunny but cold morning. We knew from the off that Rushden were here meaning business. And to have a chance we’d need to match both their skill but more importantly their work rate. This was our 3rd meeting of the season after an early season away game, a friendly before Christmas and now this cup semi, with another game still to play at the end of the season. So we’ve got to know each other well and know they play the game in the same spirit as ourselves; nice flowing football, moving the ball well, and tackling hard but fairly. That was to be the story of the morning. You could sense the nerves from both sets of girls, with tentative probing of the defences but no risks taken. Both teams created half-chances, but the Rushden backline, marshalled brilliantly by their tall sweeper played out well and around our forwards. At the other end, when their quick forwards looked to get in behind, Charlotte was ever alert to the danger, out quickly and with brilliant follow-up distribution. AJ was strong in the tackle, and Ilazki was calm and tidy with her passing, so their attack was limited to chasing scraps. Pauline had been unwell overnight and although keen to come to the game, she was off again quickly after starting, just not feeling up to it. With the defence looking secure, Emilia and Bam were able to build down the flanks, with Mads as an anchor and rock in the middle. So good today. Lexie was bubbling and full of running and wide on our right and we were starting to ask questions. The ball seemed to not want to come down though and it was still scrappy. On occasions, Lexie or Alice got in behind, but our crosses were too close to the keeper. Alice chased the through-balls or neatly shielded before slipping in the runners. Kate and Shannon ran and ran, and were making it first to the ball. Our midfield was edging it but couldn’t craft any clearcut chances. In games this tight, the first goal makes a huge psychological difference, and so when a full-of-cold Indie, who’d hardly seen any of the ball to this point, was slid in, her pinpoint outside of the foot finish in off the post helped to ease the nerves of our supporting parents! The game stayed tight and Rushden’s chances seemed to be coming more regularly and with increasing danger. We were hoping for the half time whistle, when the team crafted a moment of beauty; a series of first time passes, that Pep would have been proud of, and Shannon timing her run and finishing perfectly. Real quality from the whole team.

2-0 at half time had relaxed the girls and when they came back on, the confidence and expansive play was some of the best we’ve ever seen. Katty on at right back, and Emilia free to play up high. Slicing through the Rushden back line and swinging in crosses, chance after chance was being created. But as brilliant as the football was, so was the Rushden keeper, blocking, collecting and just about getting a hand to what would have otherwise been certain goals. There was a building feeling that those missed chances might be costly. We’ve seen it before, and sure enough, a breakaway chance was finished well by the Rushden striker. But our girls showed no sign of wobbling, the confidence in our play was really exciting now and we continued to dominate the ball, cutting open the Rushden backline. Tes in alongside AJ meant Ilazki could step up into midfield, and free up Mads to roam higher. This really was some of the best football the girls have ever played. Another exchange of passes, too quick for Rushden to deal with and Alice thundered through, not to be outdone by the two quality outside-of-the-boot first half finishes she had one of her own, sliding in past the keeper to re-establish our cushion. Annie and Lia on at left and right back now. Lia tackling well and taking her time to select the right passes. Annie strong and powerful, giving their forwards no time on the ball. Our build-up play had mostly been down the right meaning Rushden had almost forgotten the danger on our left…chasing a lost cause ball up at the corner flag, Indie turned to face the two Rushden defenders as they closed down the space. No option to recycle, so instead Indie turned on the skills, dancing inside the defenders and banging a shot at goal. The keeper parried, but only to Emilia who made sure with a tap in, that her fantastic forward play had deserved. Really nice! We were bouncing now. So Rushden upped their game, again! In behind on our right side and swinging in a cross, we failed to clear our lines and the chance fell to a Rushden player who placed her shot into the corner, giving the impeccable Cha no chance this time. But 4-2 was possibly a little generous to Rushden when that whistle finally blew. We had dominated the second half and some of the football was sublime.

Our girls have had agonising luck in the cup competitions, so close on so many occasions to reaching a final, including being denied by Covid!! It could be understood why we wondered if this morning would end with yet more disappointment, especially when up against the quality that Rushden possess, so it is especially pleasing that we reach the final in style, playing scintillating football and with big smiles on faces. Well done girls! 🙌⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls reached the cup final for the first time ever this morning. A nervy start was followed by our girls stepping on the gas in the second against last years’ cup winners, Rushden and Diamonds.
Coton Rec had just about survived the rain of the last few weeks and the pitches were at least looking good, if a little sticky, on a lovely sunny but cold morning. We knew from the off that Rushden were here meaning business. And to have a chance we’d need to match both their skill but more importantly their work rate. This was our 3rd meeting of the season after an early season away game, a friendly before Christmas and now this cup semi, with another game still to play at the end of the season. So we’ve got to know each other well and know they play the game in the same spirit as ourselves; nice flowing football, moving the ball well, and tackling hard but fairly. That was to be the story of the morning. You could sense the nerves from both sets of girls, with tentative probing of the defences but no risks taken. Both teams created half-chances, but the Rushden backline, marshalled brilliantly by their tall sweeper played out well and around our forwards. At the other end, when their quick forwards looked to get in behind, Charlotte was ever alert to the danger, out quickly and with brilliant follow-up distribution. AJ was strong in the tackle, and Ilazki was calm and tidy with her passing, so their attack was limited to chasing scraps. Pauline had been unwell overnight and although keen to come to the game, she was off again quickly after starting, just not feeling up to it. With the defence looking secure, Emilia and Bam were able to build down the flanks, with Mads as an anchor and rock in the middle. So good today. Lexie was bubbling and full of running and wide on our right and we were starting to ask questions. The ball seemed to not want to come down though and it was still scrappy. On occasions, Lexie or Alice got in behind, but our crosses were too close to the keeper. Alice chased the through-balls or neatly shielded before slipping in the runners. Kate and Shannon ran and ran, and were making it first to the ball. Our midfield was edging it but couldn’t craft any clearcut chances. In games this tight, the first goal makes a huge psychological difference, and so when a full-of-cold Indie, who’d hardly seen any of the ball to this point, was slid in, her pinpoint outside of the foot finish in off the post helped to ease the nerves of our supporting parents! The game stayed tight and Rushden’s chances seemed to be coming more regularly and with increasing danger. We were hoping for the half time whistle, when the team crafted a moment of beauty; a series of first time passes, that Pep would have been proud of, and Shannon timing her run and finishing perfectly. Real quality from the whole team.
2-0 at half time had relaxed the girls and when they came back on, the confidence and expansive play was some of the best we’ve ever seen. Katty on at right back, and Emilia free to play up high. Slicing through the Rushden back line and swinging in crosses, chance after chance was being created. But as brilliant as the football was, so was the Rushden keeper, blocking, collecting and just about getting a hand to what would have otherwise been certain goals. There was a building feeling that those missed chances might be costly. We’ve seen it before, and sure enough, a breakaway chance was finished well by the Rushden striker. But our girls showed no sign of wobbling, the confidence in our play was really exciting now and we continued to dominate the ball, cutting open the Rushden backline. Tes in alongside AJ meant Ilazki could step up into midfield, and free up Mads to roam higher. This really was some of the best football the girls have ever played. Another exchange of passes, too quick for Rushden to deal with and Alice thundered through, not to be outdone by the two quality outside-of-the-boot first half finishes she had one of her own, sliding in past the keeper to re-establish our cushion. Annie and Lia on at left and right back now. Lia tackling well and taking her time to select the right passes. Annie strong and powerful, giving their forwards no time on the ball. Our build-up play had mostly been down the right meaning Rushden had almost forgotten the danger on our left…chasing a lost cause ball up at the corner flag, Indie turned to face the two Rushden defenders as they closed down the space. No option to recycle, so instead Indie turned on the skills, dancing inside the defenders and banging a shot at goal. The keeper parried, but only to Emilia who made sure with a tap in, that her fantastic forward play had deserved. Really nice! We were bouncing now. So Rushden upped their game, again! In behind on our right side and swinging in a cross, we failed to clear our lines and the chance fell to a Rushden player who placed her shot into the corner, giving the impeccable Cha no chance this time. But 4-2 was possibly a little generous to Rushden when that whistle finally blew. We had dominated the second half and some of the football was sublime.
Our girls have had agonising luck in the cup competitions, so close on so many occasions to reaching a final, including being denied by Covid!! It could be understood why we wondered if this morning would end with yet more disappointment, especially when up against the quality that Rushden possess, so it is especially pleasing that we reach the final in style, playing scintillating football and with big smiles on faces. Well done girls! 🙌⚽️

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Brilliant! And once more a wonderful account of the game. Well played girls.

Brilliant!! Thx for the awesome match report!!

Well done! Should be a cracking cup final this year!!

Coton Football Club

7 months ago

Haverhill vs Coton U14G 17/02/2024

On a challenging and muddy pitch at Haverhill, Coton's brave pack of hounds turned up in great spirit after last weeks disappointing outing, raring to get their teeth stuck into another match of what is turning out to be an entertaining season of U14 girls football. Even a pitch invasion during the warm up by 2 frisky dogs could not shift Coton's bone-like concentration.

The first few minutes of play were fairly evenly matched as both teams tried to assert their dominance in midfield, their slippery paws struggling to gain traction on the wet terrain. A couple of long through balls by the Haverhill midfield had Cha scampering out of her box like a german shepherd, protecting her territory and clearing the danger, setting us on the front foot. As the minutes passed by, Coton's midfield retriever duo of Kate and Pauline began to dominate, orchestrating play and finding out balls to our whippet wingers, Emilia and Mads who were starting to make inroads into the opposition penalty area. A great interception by one of our terrier full backs Katty and she found Emilia flying down the wing, a great cross to pitbull Alice who placed the ball into the top left corner for her 1st of the game. 0-1 but this wasn't the time to sit back and relax, with boxer coach Darren driving the team on from the sidelines and demanding more, the girls were starting to really look up for the fight. A succession of corners from Mad's were met with stout defending by a very resolute Haverhill team.

The game settled down into a pattern of attack against defence and with our 2 rottweiler centre halves, AJ and Ilazki, snuffing out any danger and some lovely passing across the back line with jack russell terrier Bam nipping at the legs of the opposition, we were looking solid.

A great tackle in the middle of the park by Pauline and a precise ball through found bloodhound Shannon who helped the ball into the path of Alice who calmly passed the ball low into the far corner, 0-2. Next it was Bam's turn to win the ball, find Kate whose inch perfect ball found a marauding Emilia to finish in the top left. 0-3. More chances for Mad's, Alice and Shannon were either inches wide, just over or saved by an inspired performance by the Haverhill keeper.

All of a sudden, a breakaway by Haverhill and what we thought was a robust but fair challenge lead to a penalty being given. Cha stood her ground and made herself look as big as possible to defend her kennel and the unfortunate Haverhill striker hit the post and we cleared the danger. This was a wake up call for our girls who then played some of the finest football of their lives on a very tricky surface and another Emilia sprint down the wing and cross to Mad's ended up in the back of the net, another calm finish 0-4. As the half drew to a close, a bobbling ball found Alice on the edge of the box and she rifled one into the top right corner. 0-5 at halftime and a brilliant Alice hat-trick. A substitution was made just before the half ended with great dane puppy, Seyma, let loose onto the pitch with immediate effect

The halftime team talk consisted of "more of the same" from coach Darren, we had one injury to contend with, however AJ bravely stated that even though she had broken a nail, she would soldier on! (Thanks AJ for the sacrifice).

The leashes were off and it was more of the same in the 2nd half with Seyma niggling every Haverhill player who dared to spend more than a second on the ball and finding some lovely passes to go with some crunching tackles. Emilia was having a field day down the right after some great battling by Katty, found a inch perfect cross for Alice to score her 4th. Kate and Mad's then played a sumptuous one-two to lay in Alice for her 5th of the match (a superb centre forward's performance today). Alice then won the ball back with some tenacious tackling and played in Emilia to score her second with her left foot!

Suddenly, the ball breaks in our half and from nowhere the Haverhill midfielder hits a worldy from 25 yards past Cha into our net, probably our only real lapse in the whole game. 1-8

Seyma, like a dog after a bone, works tirelessly winning through a couple of robust challenges and then gets fouled on the edge of their area, up steps Mad's to put it into the top corner 1-9. More hard work by Alice, lays the ball into Mads who finds Shannon to complete the match with a score of 1-10.

This was a great all round team performance, control at the back, marauding full backs, great tenacious midfield play and amazing attacking ability. Well played all of you!

As the match concluded, the victory was not just a reflection of the skill and teamwork displayed on the field but a testament to the strategic planning and motivational prowess of the coaching staff and parents alike. This win, well-deserved and emphatically secured, will undoubtedly be a memorable chapter in Coton's season embodying their team spirit, resilience and footballing excellence. We look forward to the continued growth of these young athletes, who game after game, prove themselves a formidable force in this league. Here's to many more successes on and off the muddy fields. WELL PLAYED ALL!!⚽️👍 ... See MoreSee Less

Haverhill vs Coton U14G 17/02/2024
On a challenging and muddy pitch at Haverhill, Cotons brave pack of hounds turned up in great spirit after last weeks disappointing outing, raring to get their teeth stuck into another match of what is turning out to be an entertaining season of U14 girls football. Even a pitch invasion during the warm up by 2 frisky dogs could not shift Cotons bone-like concentration.
The first few minutes of play were fairly evenly matched as both teams tried to assert their dominance in midfield, their slippery paws struggling to gain traction on the wet terrain. A couple of long through balls by the Haverhill midfield had Cha scampering out of her box like a german shepherd, protecting her territory and clearing the danger, setting us on the front foot. As the minutes passed by, Cotons midfield retriever duo of Kate and Pauline began to dominate, orchestrating play and finding out balls to our whippet wingers, Emilia and Mads who were starting to make inroads into the opposition penalty area. A great interception by one of our terrier full backs Katty and she found Emilia flying down the wing, a great cross to pitbull Alice who placed the ball into the top left corner for her 1st of the game. 0-1 but this wasnt the time to sit back and relax, with boxer coach Darren driving the team on from the sidelines and demanding more, the girls were starting to really look up for the fight. A succession of corners from Mads were met with stout defending by a very resolute Haverhill team.
The game settled down into a pattern of attack against defence and with our 2 rottweiler centre halves, AJ and Ilazki, snuffing out any danger and some lovely passing across the back line with jack russell terrier Bam nipping at the legs of the opposition, we were looking solid.
A great tackle in the middle of the park by Pauline and a precise ball through found bloodhound Shannon who helped the ball into the path of Alice who calmly passed the ball low into the far corner, 0-2. Next it was Bams turn to win the ball, find Kate whose inch perfect ball found a marauding Emilia to finish in the top left. 0-3. More chances for Mads, Alice and Shannon were either inches wide, just over or saved by an inspired performance by the Haverhill keeper.
All of a sudden, a breakaway by Haverhill and what we thought was a robust but fair challenge lead to a penalty being given. Cha stood her ground and made herself look as big as possible to defend her kennel and the unfortunate Haverhill striker hit the post and we cleared the danger. This was a wake up call for our girls who then played some of the finest football of their lives on a very tricky surface and another Emilia sprint down the wing and cross to Mads ended up in the back of the net, another calm finish 0-4. As the half drew to a close, a bobbling ball found Alice on the edge of the box and she rifled one into the top right corner. 0-5 at halftime and a brilliant Alice hat-trick. A substitution was made just before the half ended with great dane puppy, Seyma, let loose onto the pitch with immediate effect
The halftime team talk consisted of more of the same from coach Darren, we had one injury to contend with, however AJ bravely stated that even though she had broken a nail, she would soldier on! (Thanks AJ for the sacrifice).
The leashes were off and it was more of the same in the 2nd half with Seyma niggling every Haverhill player who dared to spend more than a second on the ball and finding some lovely passes to go with some crunching tackles. Emilia was having a field day down the right after some great battling by Katty, found a inch perfect cross for Alice to score her 4th. Kate and Mads then played a sumptuous one-two to lay in Alice for her 5th of the match (a superb centre forwards performance today). Alice then won the ball back with some tenacious tackling and played in Emilia to score her second with her left foot!
Suddenly, the ball breaks in our half and from nowhere the Haverhill midfielder hits a worldy from 25 yards past Cha into our net, probably our only real lapse in the whole game. 1-8
Seyma, like a dog after a bone, works tirelessly winning through a couple of robust challenges and then gets fouled on the edge of their area, up steps Mads to put it into the top corner 1-9. More hard work by Alice, lays the ball into Mads who finds Shannon to complete the match with a score of 1-10.
This was a great all round team performance, control at the back, marauding full backs, great tenacious midfield play and amazing attacking ability. Well played all of you!
As the match concluded, the victory was not just a reflection of the skill and teamwork displayed on the field but a testament to the strategic planning and motivational prowess of the coaching staff and parents alike. This win, well-deserved and emphatically secured, will undoubtedly be a memorable chapter in Cotons season embodying their team spirit, resilience and footballing excellence. We look forward to the continued growth of these young athletes, who game after game, prove themselves a formidable force in this league. Heres to many more successes on and off the muddy fields. WELL PLAYED ALL!!⚽️👍

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That’s a quality write up 😂😂😂😂😂, love it

Thank you for a totally barking description opf a great game. Well played girls. Crufts next year?

Coton Football Club

7 months ago

Coton U14 Girls made the short hop across to Chesterton this morning to face the team we’d put 15 past only three months ago in the cup. It was to be a morning of frustration and disappointment for our girls, who we’ve watched achieve such great things so far this season, but as well we couldn’t help but admire an astonishing improvement by the opposition players - Chesterton U14 Girls are well and truly back!..

All the rain this week made the Coton pitches unplayable so this fixture was reversed to be an away game. We looked bright and in high spirits for the warm up, although the bobbly and slippy surface had been noted. The first half was going well, dominating possession, and looking to unlock the Chesterton defence. But as the half wore on, a pattern of misplaced passes and heavy touches had developed. Chesterton on the other hand were growing in confidence, and whilst the threat had been minimal, in their brilliant centre mid, Ella, they had the player of the game, first to every ball and incredibly able to dribble with power and pace on a very unforgiving surface. When her chance came to put her team ahead, she made no mistake with the finish.

We sent the team out for the second half ready to go, energy levels high, and with a determination to turn the game around, but everything we tried was being thwarted by a dogged Chesterton defence. We hoped for a bit of luck, a favourable bounce, or some individual skill which would have turned the game around, and maybe we might then go on to score more. But then the killer blow; a rare mixup in our defence, not clearing our lines, and a simple tap in for Chesterton! Now we were properly chasing the game with the clock ticking down. Shots from distance, an Indie free kick special, power down the flanks, balls whipped into the box, but the Chesterton keeper stood firm and determined. A top performance by her today. The ball cleared but only as far as Super Mads, on the edge of the box and a banged finish low into the corner. Finally! But did we have long enough left to get another? More chances. And more chances blocked. Our girls fought and fought, but at times the Chesterton back four seemed to be a back ten, and why not when you are in front! More and more Coton pressure. Shots from all angles. It only takes a second to score, but there were no seconds left and this would be our second defeat of the season.

Massive congratulations to Chesterton. Under the cosh for the whole game, but took their two chances when they came and kept us to only a single goal. Not many highlights for us unfortunately today, other than two great debuts; Amelie slotting straight in with some lovely touches and passing, and Isla always a threat with her pace and skill up front. Luckily, other results went our way today, so the damage of this defeat was minimised. But taking a step back for a second, we are very proud to be part of the league where any team can take points off any other. Credit to all teams, coaches, their supporting parents and above all, the girls showcasing football in and around Cambridgeshire. You are all awesome 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls made the short hop across to Chesterton this morning to face the team we’d put 15 past only three months ago in the cup. It was to be a morning of frustration and disappointment for our girls, who we’ve watched achieve such great things so far this season, but as well we couldn’t help but admire an astonishing improvement by the opposition players - Chesterton U14 Girls are well and truly back!..
All the rain this week made the Coton pitches unplayable so this fixture was reversed to be an away game. We looked bright and in high spirits for the warm up, although the bobbly and slippy surface had been noted. The first half was going well, dominating possession, and looking to unlock the Chesterton defence. But as the half wore on, a pattern of misplaced passes and heavy touches had developed. Chesterton on the other hand were growing in confidence, and whilst the threat had been minimal, in their brilliant centre mid, Ella, they had the player of the game, first to every ball and incredibly able to dribble with power and pace on a very unforgiving surface. When her chance came to put her team ahead, she made no mistake with the finish.
We sent the team out for the second half ready to go, energy levels high, and with a determination to turn the game around, but everything we tried was being thwarted by a dogged Chesterton defence. We hoped for a bit of luck, a favourable bounce, or some individual skill which would have turned the game around, and maybe we might then go on to score more. But then the killer blow; a rare mixup in our defence, not clearing our lines, and a simple tap in for Chesterton! Now we were properly chasing the game with the clock ticking down. Shots from distance, an Indie free kick special, power down the flanks, balls whipped into the box, but the Chesterton keeper stood firm and determined. A top performance by her today. The ball cleared but only as far as Super Mads, on the edge of the box and a banged finish low into the corner. Finally! But did we have long enough left to get another? More chances. And more chances blocked. Our girls fought and fought, but at times the Chesterton back four seemed to be a back ten, and why not when you are in front! More and more Coton pressure. Shots from all angles. It only takes a second to score, but there were no seconds left and this would be our second defeat of the season.
Massive congratulations to Chesterton. Under the cosh for the whole game, but took their two chances when they came and kept us to only a single goal. Not many highlights for us unfortunately today, other than two great debuts; Amelie slotting straight in with some lovely touches and passing, and Isla always a threat with her pace and skill up front. Luckily, other results went our way today, so the damage of this defeat was minimised. But taking a step back for a second, we are very proud to be part of the league where any team can take points off any other. Credit to all teams, coaches, their supporting parents and above all, the girls showcasing football in and around Cambridgeshire. You are all awesome 👍⚽️

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Bad luck girls. You can't win them all. Thank again for the write-up.

Go Ella 😀

Coton Football Club

7 months ago

Coton U14 Girls took on newly promoted Haverhill Town on the 3G this morning. A few drills to get used to the surface and a stretch before what, in the end, was a dominant and high scoring 9-0 game for our girls. But Haverhill will have left proud of their player’s performances in a tough game for them.

The match had a bit of a ‘Welcome to the A-League’ feel about it from the off with the Coton girls dominating possession and steadily moving through the gears. A couple of our girls were helping out in the U15’s this morning, which meant were light on numbers at the start and saw us having to play 10 v 11 for the early stages. We set up with a back three of Lia, AJ and Ilazki, in front of Cha. In the middle, Pauline and Mads, with Bam and Emilia out wide. Alice played right up top with Indie in behind. It wasn’t long before Mads made the breakthrough with a well taken controlled strike. Shannon’s arrival on 15 mins meant we had even players on the field again and was a call to action for the team to up the pressure with Shannon grabbing a first half hat-trick. Katty and Kate’s arrival meant we now had a bench to rotate. Mad was tripped in the box, but her pen sailed agonisingly wide as she looked to find the top corner. We continued to shift around quickly with Haverhill spending most of the half chasing the ball.

2nd half and more of the same really. Haverhill tried their best to feed the ball into their strong forward who would work hard to hold up play whilst support arrived, but up against AJ she was always going to have a difficult time, and the game would finish without Haverhill registering a single strike on target and Cha having a very quiet day between the sticks. Though, not before India thundered in a trademark free kick from miles out, Kate skipped in to finish neatly, Shannon added two more to her tally and Mads another, meaning Haverhill seemed very relieved to hear that final whistle having kept our girls down to single figures.

Was always going to be a big ask for a relatively new team up against our girls who are flying high at the top of the league right now, playing some quality flowing football too. But positives to take away, including a tidy display by the Haverhill centre-half, powerful and feisty centre-mid play, and a never give up attitude by the Haverhill captain and their left winger. It won’t be long before the Haverhill girls will be celebrating another win, we’re sure. But for us…well done girls, another very impressive effort! 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls took on newly promoted Haverhill Town on the 3G this morning. A few drills to get used to the surface and a stretch before what, in the end, was a dominant and high scoring 9-0 game for our girls. But Haverhill will have left proud of their player’s performances in a tough game for them.
The match had a bit of a ‘Welcome to the A-League’ feel about it from the off with the Coton girls dominating possession and steadily moving through the gears. A couple of our girls were helping out in the U15’s this morning, which meant were light on numbers at the start and saw us having to play 10 v 11 for the early stages. We set up with a back three of Lia, AJ and Ilazki, in front of Cha. In the middle, Pauline and Mads, with Bam and Emilia out wide. Alice played right up top with Indie in behind. It wasn’t long before Mads made the breakthrough with a well taken controlled strike. Shannon’s arrival on 15 mins meant we had even players on the field again and was a call to action for the team to up the pressure with Shannon grabbing a first half hat-trick. Katty and Kate’s arrival meant we now had a bench to rotate. Mad was tripped in the box, but her pen sailed agonisingly wide as she looked to find the top corner. We continued to shift around quickly with Haverhill spending most of the half chasing the ball.
2nd half and more of the same really. Haverhill tried their best to feed the ball into their strong forward who would work hard to hold up play whilst support arrived, but up against AJ she was always going to have a difficult time, and the game would finish without Haverhill registering a single strike on target and Cha having a very quiet day between the sticks. Though, not before India thundered in a trademark free kick from miles out, Kate skipped in to finish neatly, Shannon added two more to her tally and Mads another, meaning Haverhill seemed very relieved to hear that final whistle having kept our girls down to single figures.
Was always going to be a big ask for a relatively new team up against our girls who are flying high at the top of the league right now, playing some quality flowing football too. But positives to take away, including a tidy display by the Haverhill centre-half, powerful and feisty centre-mid play, and a never give up attitude by the Haverhill captain and their left winger. It won’t be long before the Haverhill girls will be celebrating another win, we’re sure. But for us…well done girls, another very impressive effort! 👍⚽️

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Once again another great write up 👌, well done girls , could have easily been an off day with a very inexperienced referee today , lol 😂😂😂

Well played the girls. Thanks for the write-up. I liked the picture of the girls holding back the crowds so they did not invade the pitch!

Coton Football Club

8 months ago

If we said we look forward to games against Cambridge City we’d be bending the truth(!), but for sure, over the years, many different teams at many different age groups at our club have had tense, tight encounters with the City teams packed with top talent from around the County, and today for Coton U14 Girls was no different! There were doubts whether the game would go ahead, being the first game back at Coton Rec since all the rain, and then frost, and also with the City squad a little depleted. But ahead it went and both teams treated the onlooking parents and supporters to a hard fought match, at times scrappy, on a slippy surface, but with moments of brilliance.

After kickoff it took a while for both teams to adjust to a bobbing ball that wouldn’t run true when passed. That combined with the press from both midfields meant it was a good ten mins before either keeper had a save to make. The defence’s were on top and the midfield’s chased, hurried and battled. Our right side started to get some joy, with Emilia having a stormer at right back, impossible to get past and quick to skip out and feed an energetic Lexie wide up top. On the other side, Bam had her hands full with the City winger, Amelia, who’s pace is unbelievable when she gets going, and further up, Indie was struggling against the City, Right back, Evie, who was stepping in to put pressure before we could get the ball properly under control and start our usual combinations. In the middle, Pauline and Kate, ahead of Mads in the holding position, worked hard to win the ball for an in-form Shannon in the False-9. But for the first quarter we hardly managed to give her a sniff. The City midfielder, Peggy, turned brilliantly between Pauline and Mads, and slotted her pass forward but with AJ and Ilazki looking comfortable at centre backs the danger was quickly averted. City were starting to ask questions though. Amelia’s long throws kept us constantly having to clear and they were starting to build a bit of momentum. Charlotte was called upon more and more frequently, whereas the stand-in City keeper had hardly had a touch. That all-important first goal felt like it was coming, but not for us! Calm and composed Mads, of course felt differently, winning a ball and slipping through for Shannon. The chance seemed to have gone, with the keeper quickly out and the defender odds on to clear but, with full intention, Shannon somehow took the chance, clipping and curling an outside of the left boot shot round the keeper and into the far post. Honestly one of the best finishes we’ve ever seen. Amazing! Couple of changes now, Annie on to add power and strength to our defence and Alice out on the right wing with Lexie switching to the left. It wasn’t long before Emilia had closed out a City chance, bringing the ball out and past a couple of players. Keeping on going, as the defenders stepped out to close her down, she slipped a left foot pass into Alice’s run. One touch to control and a second to thunder her shot, Alice was so unlucky that the crossbar denied a stunning strike. How many times this season?! But Lexie has come in from the left and the rebound needed a little work, but fortunately Lexie had the composure to delay and fire her shot in as the City defence scrambled to block. Katty was on now at right back and Emilia given a go higher up the wing, but not long before the whistle blew. 2-0 at the break and we felt happy with that!

The sun was out and it was actually a nice day even if the still recovering pitch was slippy and muddy. As the second half kicked off, the warmth was on our backs and it was the City defence who had to contend with sun in their eyes. We’d talked during the break about the importance of keeping things tight; more important not to concede than get another goal. But the City players are so good. Amelia charged through our back line and fired her shot beyond the outstretched arm of a diving Charlotte, and in. Game on! City upped the tempo. Cha was getting lots of touches now, making saves and clearances. Another Amelia chance, but fortunately wide this time. How would we respond? The passing became quicker, really nice moves and running now. Alice was a constant menace to their defenders opening up spaces for Emilia to run into. Kate sat deep and gave license for Mads and Pauline to push up. A cut back from Emilia found Mads, who turned neatly and put the ball on a plate for Pauline to stroke an unstoppable finish. Fantastic team goal, starting with good pressure from Lia, gaining us possession, and the ball being worked round the pitch and up to Alice, Emilia, Mads and Pauline to work their magic. A real pleasure to watch! And an important response, but we weren’t done yet… every game you could say Alice deserved to score, such is the effort she puts in for her team, so it was nice on many levels when she won a bouncing ball and powered through the City back line, arriving at the ball ahead of everyone and drilling a shot low through the keeper. More breathing space! But never underestimate City… a mistake on our left and the City striker, Katie, having arrived late from an earlier game, found herself in acres of space but with lots still to do. Had she opted to run in with the ball, with AJ and Lia chasing back and Charlotte between the sticks, we’d have fancied our chances to escape conceding again, but instead Katie absolutely rocketed a shot that no way Charlotte or any other keeper could have stopped, high over and into the back of our goal. But this was against the run of play now and our girls had deflated enough of the City players that we were having more joy everywhere. India found herself, ball at feet, wide on the left of their congested box, no chance to shoot, so only option to recycle? Oh no…this is India remember! Instead she scooped a shot over everyone dropping into the net for our fifth. The minutes ticked away and our girls came off with big smiles after a big performance.

Great result! Really pleased that everyone stepped up today in one of those games that will be big for our league position at the end of the season. Thanks Richard, the other City coaches and, most of all, the City girls for giving us a massive challenge today. And to our girls…fantastic! You are all amazing 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

If we said we look forward to games against Cambridge City we’d be bending the truth(!), but for sure, over the years, many different teams at many different age groups at our club have had tense, tight encounters with the City teams packed with top talent from around the County, and today for Coton U14 Girls was no different! There were doubts whether the game would go ahead, being the first game back at Coton Rec since all the rain, and then frost, and also with the City squad a little depleted. But ahead it went and both teams treated the onlooking parents and supporters to a hard fought match, at times scrappy, on a slippy surface, but with moments of brilliance.
After kickoff it took a while for both teams to adjust to a bobbing ball that wouldn’t run true when passed. That combined with the press from both midfields meant it was a good ten mins before either keeper had a save to make. The defence’s were on top and the midfield’s chased, hurried and battled. Our right side started to get some joy, with Emilia having a stormer at right back, impossible to get past and quick to skip out and feed an energetic Lexie wide up top. On the other side, Bam had her hands full with the City winger, Amelia, who’s pace is unbelievable when she gets going, and further up, Indie was struggling against the City, Right back, Evie, who was stepping in to put pressure before we could get the ball properly under control and start our usual combinations. In the middle, Pauline and Kate, ahead of Mads in the holding position, worked hard to win the ball for an in-form Shannon in the False-9. But for the first quarter we hardly managed to give her a sniff. The City midfielder, Peggy, turned brilliantly between Pauline and Mads, and slotted her pass forward but with AJ and Ilazki looking comfortable at centre backs the danger was quickly averted. City were starting to ask questions though. Amelia’s long throws kept us constantly having to clear and they were starting to build a bit of momentum. Charlotte was called upon more and more frequently, whereas the stand-in City keeper had hardly had a touch. That all-important first goal felt like it was coming, but not for us! Calm and composed Mads, of course felt differently, winning a ball and slipping through for Shannon. The chance seemed to have gone, with the keeper quickly out and the defender odds on to clear but, with full intention, Shannon somehow took the chance, clipping and curling an outside of the left boot shot round the keeper and into the far post. Honestly one of the best finishes we’ve ever seen. Amazing! Couple of changes now, Annie on to add power and strength to our defence and Alice out on the right wing with Lexie switching to the left. It wasn’t long before Emilia had closed out a City chance, bringing the ball out and past a couple of players. Keeping on going, as the defenders stepped out to close her down, she slipped a left foot pass into Alice’s run. One touch to control and a second to thunder her shot, Alice was so unlucky that the crossbar denied a stunning strike. How many times this season?! But Lexie has come in from the left and the rebound needed a little work, but fortunately Lexie had the composure to delay and fire her shot in as the City defence scrambled to block. Katty was on now at right back and Emilia given a go higher up the wing, but not long before the whistle blew. 2-0 at the break and we felt happy with that!
The sun was out and it was actually a nice day even if the still recovering pitch was slippy and muddy. As the second half kicked off, the warmth was on our backs and it was the City defence who had to contend with sun in their eyes. We’d talked during the break about the importance of keeping things tight; more important not to concede than get another goal. But the City players are so good. Amelia charged through our back line and fired her shot beyond the outstretched arm of a diving Charlotte, and in. Game on! City upped the tempo. Cha was getting lots of touches now, making saves and clearances. Another Amelia chance, but fortunately wide this time. How would we respond? The passing became quicker, really nice moves and running now. Alice was a constant menace to their defenders opening up spaces for Emilia to run into. Kate sat deep and gave license for Mads and Pauline to push up. A cut back from Emilia found Mads, who turned neatly and put the ball on a plate for Pauline to stroke an unstoppable finish. Fantastic team goal, starting with good pressure from Lia, gaining us possession, and the ball being worked round the pitch and up to Alice, Emilia, Mads and Pauline to work their magic. A real pleasure to watch! And an important response, but we weren’t done yet… every game you could say Alice deserved to score, such is the effort she puts in for her team, so it was nice on many levels when she won a bouncing ball and powered through the City back line, arriving at the ball ahead of everyone and drilling a shot low through the keeper. More breathing space! But never underestimate City… a mistake on our left and the City striker, Katie, having arrived late from an earlier game, found herself in acres of space but with lots still to do. Had she opted to run in with the ball, with AJ and Lia chasing back and Charlotte between the sticks, we’d have fancied our chances to escape conceding again, but instead Katie absolutely rocketed a shot that no way Charlotte or any other keeper could have stopped, high over and into the back of our goal. But this was against the run of play now and our girls had deflated enough of the City players that we were having more joy everywhere. India found herself, ball at feet, wide on the left of their congested box, no chance to shoot, so only option to recycle? Oh no…this is India remember! Instead she scooped a shot over everyone dropping into the net for our fifth. The minutes ticked away and our girls came off with big smiles after a big performance.
Great result! Really pleased that everyone stepped up today in one of those games that will be big for our league position at the end of the season. Thanks Richard, the other City coaches and, most of all, the City girls for giving us a massive challenge today. And to our girls…fantastic! You are all amazing 👍⚽️

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Another great write up, , well done 👌

We should make a book with all the reports :-)

Another great piece about the game. Well played girls.

Coton Football Club

9 months ago

The heavens opened early and many games were cancelled this morning, but the later start to the U14 Girls cup game over at Newmarket survived the downfall and we kicked off at 12pm, in dry weather!!

To be fair, the Newmarket pitch, although not the world’s flattest surface, was in decent condition given all the rain so with two footballing sides facing up, much of the early play involved getting a feel for the run of the ball and adjusting passing weight. Our girls edged possession, but Newmarket, showing off their summer signings, in particular their lightning fast new striker, maintained a healthy threat to keep us on our toes, and Charlotte needing to speed out from her box to collect or clear any through ball danger. Our team was a bit injury and illness struck today, with only one sub, and a couple not feeling 100%, but we could not question the effort from everyone. In front of Cha, the back line of Tes, AJ, Lia and Emilia, through the middle of Mads, Pauline, Shannon, and Ilazki (from the bench), out wide to Indie and Lexie, to Alice, up top everyone was fully committed throughout the game. As both teams settled in to their rhythm, it wasn’t long before a ball into Alice was neatly turned into Lexie’s run. Her pace got her in behind the Newmarket defence, and spying a retreating keeper Lexie fired low across the goal into the corner of the net to put us one-up. Our second came from an epic charge down the right wing by Emilia, overlapping and driving to the line before firing her cross in. Newmarket scrambled to clear, but only to Shannon, central just inside the box, controlling before shooting so hard at goal that even a deflection from the onrushing defence could not stop the ball from finding the back of the net.

Two-nill at the break was the final score when we’d met earlier in the season, but the Newmarket players are clearly improving every week and when their striker finally broke our line and was in on goal, she made sure with an accurate cross-goal strike to find the net, and raise our stress levels! But our girls didn’t wobble. Pauline’s pace and skill on the left wing, fed Shannon for a mazy byline dribble and cutback to Lexie who ran across and poked in before the keeper could collect. Not content with two goals, and following a scramble to clear in the Newmarket box, Lexie arrived first to lift a ball against the crossbar and down over the line for her first Coton hat trick. Well done Lexie! With Alice and Indie struggling to shake off their earlier injuries, and after both going back on to do their best, we were down to only ten players now. Whilst we did brilliantly to soak up the direct threat, a lapse in concentration in the middle gifted their midfield a bit of time and space, but how she used it! Striking a worldie that Cha did well to get a hand to but not enough to keep from dropping into the net. A few more chances for both teams, but energy levels were low now and the two sets of players had left everything out there today.

Highlights today; a dominant performance between the sticks by Cha, collecting balls, snaffling out threat before it materialised and recognised as the opposition player of the match award. Pace, power and all-round excellence by the destroyer that is AJ! Calm tackling under pressure, and top-notch all-game man-marking by Lia. Brilliant tackles, cover, stepping out, and build-up by Tesni. Immense speed down our right side, tackling, interceptions, overlap and front-footed-awesomeness by Emilia. A highly mature and technical captain’s performance by Mads, whether asked to play central, wide or up top, and then making the decision herself to sit in and hold, to see out the game. Very impressed today Mads, well done! Classy build up and transition by Pauline when central, and excelling on the wing with close control at pace to continually beat her defender. Touch of the game, bravery and thundering heading by Ilazki. Brilliant creativity and energy by Shannon, popping up with an important goal to give us a nerve settling cushion and allow us to relax into our football. Quality footwork, combination, and perpetual threat by Indie down the wing. Super-intelligent link up, selflessness and constant menace by Alice. Hat trick hero, rapid wing play, and another taster of what she can bring to this team by Lexie. Oh, and world-class shoutiness by Coach Darren in the absence of his mentor, Coach Olly.

Overall a thoroughly enjoyable game, with many moments of excellence by both sets of girls, mixed in with some hard tackling and controlled aggression. A bit of everything today. Well done girls 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

The heavens opened early and many games were cancelled this morning, but the later start to the U14 Girls cup game over at Newmarket survived the downfall and we kicked off at 12pm, in dry weather!!
To be fair, the Newmarket pitch, although not the world’s flattest surface, was in decent condition given all the rain so with two footballing sides facing up, much of the early play involved getting a feel for the run of the ball and adjusting passing weight. Our girls edged possession, but Newmarket, showing off their summer signings, in particular their lightning fast new striker, maintained a healthy threat to keep us on our toes, and Charlotte needing to speed out from her box to collect or clear any through ball danger. Our team was a bit injury and illness struck today, with only one sub, and a couple not feeling 100%, but we could not question the effort from everyone. In front of Cha, the back line of Tes, AJ, Lia and Emilia, through the middle of Mads, Pauline, Shannon, and Ilazki (from the bench), out wide to Indie and Lexie, to Alice, up top everyone was fully committed throughout the game. As both teams settled in to their rhythm, it wasn’t long before a ball into Alice was neatly turned into Lexie’s run. Her pace got her in behind the Newmarket defence, and spying a retreating keeper Lexie fired low across the goal into the corner of the net to put us one-up. Our second came from an epic charge down the right wing by Emilia, overlapping and driving to the line before firing her cross in. Newmarket scrambled to clear, but only to Shannon, central just inside the box, controlling before shooting so hard at goal that even a deflection from the onrushing defence could not stop the ball from finding the back of the net.
Two-nill at the break was the final score when we’d met earlier in the season, but the Newmarket players are clearly improving every week and when their striker finally broke our line and was in on goal, she made sure with an accurate cross-goal strike to find the net, and raise our stress levels! But our girls didn’t wobble. Pauline’s pace and skill on the left wing, fed Shannon for a mazy byline dribble and cutback to Lexie who ran across and poked in before the keeper could collect. Not content with two goals, and following a scramble to clear in the Newmarket box, Lexie arrived first to lift a ball against the crossbar and down over the line for her first Coton hat trick. Well done Lexie! With Alice and Indie struggling to shake off their earlier injuries, and after both going back on to do their best, we were down to only ten players now. Whilst we did brilliantly to soak up the direct threat, a lapse in concentration in the middle gifted their midfield a bit of time and space, but how she used it! Striking a worldie that Cha did well to get a hand to but not enough to keep from dropping into the net. A few more chances for both teams, but energy levels were low now and the two sets of players had left everything out there today.
Highlights today; a dominant performance between the sticks by Cha, collecting balls, snaffling out threat before it materialised and recognised as the opposition player of the match award. Pace, power and all-round excellence by the destroyer that is AJ! Calm tackling under pressure, and top-notch all-game man-marking by Lia. Brilliant tackles, cover, stepping out, and build-up by Tesni. Immense speed down our right side, tackling, interceptions, overlap and front-footed-awesomeness by Emilia. A highly mature and technical captain’s performance by Mads, whether asked to play central, wide or up top, and then making the decision herself to sit in and hold, to see out the game. Very impressed today Mads, well done! Classy build up and transition by Pauline when central, and excelling on the wing with close control at pace to continually beat her defender. Touch of the game, bravery and thundering heading by Ilazki. Brilliant creativity and energy by Shannon, popping up with an important goal to give us a nerve settling cushion and allow us to relax into our football. Quality footwork, combination, and perpetual threat by Indie down the wing. Super-intelligent link up, selflessness and constant menace by Alice. Hat trick hero, rapid wing play, and another taster of what she can bring to this team by Lexie. Oh, and world-class shoutiness by Coach Darren in the absence of his mentor, Coach Olly.
Overall a thoroughly enjoyable game, with many moments of excellence by both sets of girls, mixed in with some hard tackling and controlled aggression. A bit of everything today. Well done girls 👍⚽️

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Another great write up , always enjoy the read up before bed, well done girls semi final , bring it on

Thanks for another great summary. Well done to all the team.

Coton Football Club

9 months ago

If recent history between these two teams was anything to go by, it was going to be a tight game between Coton U14 Girls and Netherton, in the game up at Peterborough this morning…and sure enough, that turned out to be the case! The first time our girls have been treated to playing on the fantastic 3G surface at The Grange, with its interesting footwear rules (no Astros on the Astro! 🤔), and with the low sun and similar kits, both groups of girls had to deal with more than just tough opposition today.

We started the first half well, and Netherton were forced back into their half for long periods, looking to hit on the break with their strong and quick forward line. Some nice passages of play from Pauline, linking with Bam and Mads, creating half chances for Shannon who shifted nicely to make space, but unable to generate enough power in her shots. Similarly on the right, Kate and Emilia linked to get Indie up and running down the wing, and her cut back crosses were causing the Netherton defenders to stay alert, but they defended strongly and calmly, and no joy that side either. Tes stood strong in the midfield, intercepting the Netherton forwards before they had time to build, and she quickly slid forward balls to Mads and Shannon. Netherton maintained a threat up top, but our backline of Ilazki alongside Anaya, with yet another outstanding performance, stood strong and Charlotte was in great form, both in charging out to the through balls and in her great kicking all game. From the bench, Alice added power and guile, and Annie was on the front foot, overlapping and linking brilliantly with our wings. For much of the first half we felt we had the upper hand, but just needed that little bit of luck, a kind bounce, and we would have edged ahead. But as it was, the half finished goalless with both teams not being able to create enough to have been able to say they deserved the lead.

2nd half and Netherton came at us all guns blazing. This was possibly the most complete performance in a half we’ve seen from them and all of their players will leave this game feeling very proud of their efforts. At times we just could not live with them, and had it not been for some great defending from Emilia, Tes, AJ, Bam and Annie, plus alertness from Cha, they could have been out of sight. Just as we felt we’d weathered the storm and were starting to turn the game, failure to clear our lines properly and we conceded a soft corner. This was whipped in brilliantly to the danger area and we were only watching as the Netherton forward glanced her header into the back of our net. There wasn’t long left on the clock but enough to get back in the game. Now we came to life, but was it too late? Pauline and Mads, were running the middle now. India was a live wire and had the beating of her fullback, but we struggled to slip the right ball into her runs. On the other side, Kate first tried to beat the outstanding Netherton left back, then Ilazki, but it wasn’t coming. All the questions we asked, Netherton had the answers. However in Alice we have a player with incredible potential and she showed us another glimpse today, blasting through their backline, so rapid when at full speed, but with the keeping coming out, her outside of the foot effort narrowly and agonisingly went wide of the post. We were really pressuring them now. An effort from distance, saved. The rebound cleared away. 2nd ball fired back in. What did we need to do to get our goal? 3rd ball cleared, but only as far as Indie. Finally a bit of luck! The one player you’d put your house on and she didn’t disappoint. Thundering an unstoppable shot that didn’t dip all the way to the back of the net. That right foot is a weapon! The Netherton bench sank. They’d seen this before, and there were only minutes left on the clock. But their players did not sink. No, they kept pressing us, kept pressing. And righting the wrong from our encounter earlier in the season pounced upon and caused a succession of indecision by too many of our players and their striker was in behind to slide in her effort and send their bench wild again. We continued to battle but we were out of time and first points dropped of the season, you have to say though - a cracking game of football, even if this time the result wasn’t in our favour!

So, the league is back open, with 4 teams still sniffing for that top spot, and the rest of the clubs there to keep us all honest. Any hopes of a procession are over, and game on for the title! 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

If recent history between these two teams was anything to go by, it was going to be a tight game between Coton U14 Girls and Netherton, in the game up at Peterborough this morning…and sure enough, that turned out to be the case! The first time our girls have been treated to playing on the fantastic 3G surface at The Grange, with its interesting footwear rules (no Astros on the Astro! 🤔), and with the low sun and similar kits, both groups of girls had to deal with more than just tough opposition today.
We started the first half well, and Netherton were forced back into their half for long periods, looking to hit on the break with their strong and quick forward line. Some nice passages of play from Pauline, linking with Bam and Mads, creating half chances for Shannon who shifted nicely to make space, but unable to generate enough power in her shots. Similarly on the right, Kate and Emilia linked to get Indie up and running down the wing, and her cut back crosses were causing the Netherton defenders to stay alert, but they defended strongly and calmly, and no joy that side either. Tes stood strong in the midfield, intercepting the Netherton forwards before they had time to build, and she quickly slid forward balls to Mads and Shannon. Netherton maintained a threat up top, but our backline of Ilazki alongside Anaya, with yet another outstanding performance, stood strong and Charlotte was in great form, both in charging out to the through balls and in her great kicking all game. From the bench, Alice added power and guile, and Annie was on the front foot, overlapping and linking brilliantly with our wings. For much of the first half we felt we had the upper hand, but just needed that little bit of luck, a kind bounce, and we would have edged ahead. But as it was, the half finished goalless with both teams not being able to create enough to have been able to say they deserved the lead.
2nd half and Netherton came at us all guns blazing. This was possibly the most complete performance in a half we’ve seen from them and all of their players will leave this game feeling very proud of their efforts. At times we just could not live with them, and had it not been for some great defending from Emilia, Tes, AJ, Bam and Annie, plus alertness from Cha, they could have been out of sight. Just as we felt we’d weathered the storm and were starting to turn the game, failure to clear our lines properly and we conceded a soft corner. This was whipped in brilliantly to the danger area and we were only watching as the Netherton forward glanced her header into the back of our net. There wasn’t long left on the clock but enough to get back in the game. Now we came to life, but was it too late? Pauline and Mads, were running the middle now. India was a live wire and had the beating of her fullback, but we struggled to slip the right ball into her runs. On the other side, Kate first tried to beat the outstanding Netherton left back, then Ilazki, but it wasn’t coming. All the questions we asked, Netherton had the answers. However in Alice we have a player with incredible potential and she showed us another glimpse today, blasting through their backline, so rapid when at full speed, but with the keeping coming out, her outside of the foot effort narrowly and agonisingly went wide of the post. We were really pressuring them now. An effort from distance, saved. The rebound cleared away. 2nd ball fired back in. What did we need to do to get our goal? 3rd ball cleared, but only as far as Indie. Finally a bit of luck! The one player you’d put your house on and she didn’t disappoint. Thundering an unstoppable shot that didn’t dip all the way to the back of the net. That right foot is a weapon! The Netherton bench sank. They’d seen this before, and there were only minutes left on the clock. But their players did not sink. No, they kept pressing us, kept pressing. And righting the wrong from our encounter earlier in the season pounced upon and caused a succession of indecision by too many of our players and their striker was in behind to slide in her effort and send their bench wild again. We continued to battle but we were out of time and first points dropped of the season, you have to say though - a cracking game of football, even if this time the result wasn’t in our favour!
So, the league is back open, with 4 teams still sniffing for that top spot, and the rest of the clubs there to keep us all honest. Any hopes of a procession are over, and game on for the title! 👍⚽️

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As always, a fantastic battle between 2 formidable teams. Thanks again to all at Coton for another game in the history books. ❤️🖤⚽️

It reads like a great game. Well done.

Coton Football Club

10 months ago

Coton U6s are looking for new players. We will be training and playing friendly matches this season and will enter the league from U7 next September 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U6s are looking for new players. We will be training and playing friendly matches this season and will enter the league from U7 next September 👍⚽️

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Coton Football Club

10 months ago

Photos from Grassroots Football UK's post ... See MoreSee Less

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Coton Football Club

10 months ago

Coton U7s proudly showing off their new hoodies before their on Saturday Morning. Many thanks to our sponsor Wallis Defenders⚽️👍 ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U7s proudly showing off their new hoodies before their on Saturday Morning. Many thanks to our sponsor Wallis Defenders⚽️👍

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Coton Football Club

10 months ago

Back into action after the half term break, Coton U14 Girls entered the 2nd round of the Cup with a home game against a much changed Chesterton Eagles side. The record of previous cup meetings was one-a-piece; our 2018-19 Cup run, including a win against Chesterton being cut short by Covid, and Chesterton beating us before going on to win the 2020-21 Cup. So high stakes for this one, and the game not helped by the rain all week making the pitch very slippy for both teams today.

After a warm up in the rain, and already very muddy, our girls started the game strongly. The ball was moved swiftly with one and two touches from kickoff and it wasn’t long before, from the left, India cut in and slid the ball into Emilia’s run from the right for a drilled shot and first goal. Chesterton came back at us, but AJ and Tes soaked up the pressure and fed a fully-up-for-it Bam, who must have had 4 weetabix, 2 bowls of Ready Brek and 6 cans of Red Bull as she drove forward playing in India to twist and turn our wide. Still nursing her ankle from an injury midweek, a clip in the tackle meant Indie needed to come off and Kate was straight into the action and displaying the same amount of energy as the rest of our team. Last ditch defending from Chesterton saw the ball cleared but only as far as Bam who released a thunderbolt to put us 2 ahead with Coach Darren claiming his first assist of the season(!) Calm work again from our back line, and Annie neatly interchanging passes to help the build up. Pressure from Alice and Chesterton conceded the corner, which Pauline duly dispatched into the box for Emilia to bundle in her second. Ilazki was controlling the midfield, playing against her old club and keen to impress, she danced through the tackles to slide a pinpoint ball into the run of Mads who calmly slotted home for her first of the game. Chesterton, to their credit, played the game with the same good intensity throughout, and their skilful players continued to look for openings, but Tes and Annie were looking calm and in great form, AJ was typically commanding, and Bam was on fire! Cha’s goal kick fell kindly to the Chesterton striker, but her first time finish under pressure and over Cha was top quality, and Chesterton gave us a reminder that we couldn’t relax in this one. More rotations, with India back on and Shannon into the action, and our girls hungry for more goals. Nice exchanges with Shannon and Kate and her ball into Indie for a shot, but denied by the post this time. A firm Shannon shot blocked well by the keeper but India was on hand to tuck away. A run out up top for Ilazki, who pounced on a loose clearance from their keeper and fired her shot into the back of the net. The ball was switched out wide and India fired a cross over to Mads to cut inside and fire back her shot across for another nice finish. Almost half time, but Mads was in again, this time sent through by Shannon, and another neat finish for her hat trick and our 8th of the game!

No need to change much for the second half and the girls were all still highly motivated. Lia back now from her injury and settling in nicely alongside Tes, meant AJ pushed up into midfield. Taking the chance to show what she could do, she showed good control and made space for herself to unleash a rocket shot that no keeper could have hoped to save. As Chesterton looked to reply, the ever-present Cha was always first to the through balls and she didn’t allow a single shooting chance to materialise. Not content with 3 goals, Mads beat her defender on the left and drove into the box, slotting home for her 4th. More strong work by Annie to feed India, whose great skills and cutback for Ilazki to shoot first time for her 2nd. Bam worked the ball up to Mads who swung in a cross for Alice to attack for her 1st. Pauline had been fantastic all game, involved in almost every thing good we did today, with her close control and movement impossible for Chesterton to contain, and she nicely setup Alice to grab her second. Now Pauline’s chance to grab a goal for herself, collecting a loose ball, she banged in from distance. The clock was almost down, but time enough for Bam to skip through with the keeper coming out and defenders closing down, we thought the chance was gone, but it turns out Bam has a right foot too (who knew!?) as she neatly poked the ball to roll in for our highest ever scoreline we can remember - 15 goals with only 1 conceded, although we’ll double check that with Coach Al(!)

It’s not the scoreline we expected or would ideally want on a regular basis, but we were super proud of the quality of the football today, and there was plenty that Chesterton will be proud of too and lots for them to continue to build on, having added so many new faces to their team. So, through to the next round, and we wait to see who we’re up against next 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Back into action after the half term break, Coton U14 Girls entered the 2nd round of the Cup with a home game against a much changed Chesterton Eagles side. The record of previous cup meetings was one-a-piece; our 2018-19 Cup run, including a win against Chesterton being cut short by Covid, and Chesterton beating us before going on to win the 2020-21 Cup. So high stakes for this one, and the game not helped by the rain all week making the pitch very slippy for both teams today.
After a warm up in the rain, and already very muddy, our girls started the game strongly. The ball was moved swiftly with one and two touches from kickoff and it wasn’t long before, from the left, India cut in and slid the ball into Emilia’s run from the right for a drilled shot and first goal. Chesterton came back at us, but AJ and Tes soaked up the pressure and fed a fully-up-for-it Bam, who must have had 4 weetabix, 2 bowls of Ready Brek and 6 cans of Red Bull as she drove forward playing in India to twist and turn our wide. Still nursing her ankle from an injury midweek, a clip in the tackle meant Indie needed to come off and Kate was straight into the action and displaying the same amount of energy as the rest of our team. Last ditch defending from Chesterton saw the ball cleared but only as far as Bam who released a thunderbolt to put us 2 ahead with Coach Darren claiming his first assist of the season(!) Calm work again from our back line, and Annie neatly interchanging passes to help the build up. Pressure from Alice and Chesterton conceded the corner, which Pauline duly dispatched into the box for Emilia to bundle in her second. Ilazki was controlling the midfield, playing against her old club and keen to impress, she danced through the tackles to slide a pinpoint ball into the run of Mads who calmly slotted home for her first of the game. Chesterton, to their credit, played the game with the same good intensity throughout, and their skilful players continued to look for openings, but Tes and Annie were looking calm and in great form, AJ was typically commanding, and Bam was on fire! Cha’s goal kick fell kindly to the Chesterton striker, but her first time finish under pressure and over Cha was top quality, and Chesterton gave us a reminder that we couldn’t relax in this one. More rotations, with India back on and Shannon into the action, and our girls hungry for more goals. Nice exchanges with Shannon and Kate and her ball into Indie for a shot, but denied by the post this time. A firm Shannon shot blocked well by the keeper but India was on hand to tuck away. A run out up top for Ilazki, who pounced on a loose clearance from their keeper and fired her shot into the back of the net. The ball was switched out wide and India fired a cross over to Mads to cut inside and fire back her shot across for another nice finish. Almost half time, but Mads was in again, this time sent through by Shannon, and another neat finish for her hat trick and our 8th of the game!
No need to change much for the second half and the girls were all still highly motivated. Lia back now from her injury and settling in nicely alongside Tes, meant AJ pushed up into midfield. Taking the chance to show what she could do, she showed good control and made space for herself to unleash a rocket shot that no keeper could have hoped to save. As Chesterton looked to reply, the ever-present Cha was always first to the through balls and she didn’t allow a single shooting chance to materialise. Not content with 3 goals, Mads beat her defender on the left and drove into the box, slotting home for her 4th. More strong work by Annie to feed India, whose great skills and cutback for Ilazki to shoot first time for her 2nd. Bam worked the ball up to Mads who swung in a cross for Alice to attack for her 1st. Pauline had been fantastic all game, involved in almost every thing good we did today, with her close control and movement impossible for Chesterton to contain, and she nicely setup Alice to grab her second. Now Pauline’s chance to grab a goal for herself, collecting a loose ball, she banged in from distance. The clock was almost down, but time enough for Bam to skip through with the keeper coming out and defenders closing down, we thought the chance was gone, but it turns out Bam has a right foot too (who knew!?) as she neatly poked the ball to roll in for our highest ever scoreline we can remember - 15 goals with only 1 conceded, although we’ll double check that with Coach Al(!)
It’s not the scoreline we expected or would ideally want on a regular basis, but we were super proud of the quality of the football today, and there was plenty that Chesterton will be proud of too and lots for them to continue to build on, having added so many new faces to their team. So, through to the next round, and we wait to see who we’re up against next 👍⚽️

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Well done girls , another great write up , always my Saturday nite , highlight, 👌

Well done girls. Thanks for the great match report as usual!

Thanks for the item. Good result. Well played, girls.

Coton Football Club

11 months ago

After the heavy downpour yesterday, we were wondering whether the Coton U14 Girls game, away at Cambridge City, would be played at all, but it turned out to be a perfect morning for football. The sun was out, the pitch was freshly lined and you could sense that both teams were really up for this one. Coton were a little unsure what to expect given that this was a different City team from last year, like us having lost some players to the JPL. However, we knew that they had replaced quality with quality, and that it likely would be a close fought affair. This proved to be the case.

There were few chances in a scrappy first half while both teams sized each other up. Emilia on her first start after a lengthy absence locked down the right side and Bam did the same on the left. Tes and AJ were a solid centre back combination with little troubling them. The only real City threat came from long passes from their goalkeeper, but these tended to skid through to Cha who calmly collected, and put in another flawless display of accurate kicking from the hand and grass. On the few occasions when a City player looked like they might get in on goal, AJ was there to sweep up with her speed and tenacity. Up top, Coton were struggling to break down a stubborn city defensive line. Alice was superbly holding the ball up but was unable to find an outlet with Ilazki, Mads and Lexie preoccupied in the battle to control the midfield. Then, as the clock ticked down to half-time, there was a sudden shift in momentum; Pauline deftly pulled down a clearance just over halfway and as she looked to skip past her marker, she was body checked. After a pause while Shannon came on to replace a groggy Pauline, India stepped up to take the free kick from 25 yards and hit a hard curling shot which dipped over the keeper to break the deadlock. One nil! Immediately the shackles came off. In one of the few flowing moves of the half Shannon sent India in on goal, on the right side of the penalty area, with a deft through ball, and India hit a powerful rising drive which skimmed the top of the crossbar. So close to going into half-time with a 2-nil lead but not to be.

The second half started much like the first but gradually Coton began to take control with Kate (having come on for Lexie) becoming increasingly influential. She battled hard out of possession and was calm and composed in possession, and Coton began to string some lovely passing moves together, working the ball through Ilazki and Shannon to Mads to India and India on the flanks. The Coton threat was growing while City were still to register a shot on goal. The pressure paid off when a clever interchange of passes on the right led to Emilia feeding a ball to Alice in the centre. Alice’s exquisite defence-splitting pass for a Mads run on the left who, without breaking stride, jinked inside and hit an unstoppable shot into the far corner. 2 nil! But we still couldn’t rest and Annie came on to sure up the Coton defence whilst a wounded City, realising they needed the next goal, upped their game. For the first time in the match, City got forward in numbers and exerted pressure on the our defence. After a scramble on the edge of our box the ball broke free to a City player in space with the goal beckoning, but their thunderbolt could only rattle the goal as it bounced off the bar. A let off and a wakeup call. But even with a City side on the ascendancy, our girls continued to retain possession, and still looked like the team in control. Lexie, now out on the right wing, proved an important and dangerous outlet for Coton, nearly escaping the City defence on several occasions, getting shots away, and keeping the City keeper busy. India continued to be a menace with her speed and trickery regularly causing panic in the City defence. As the half progressed our girls maintained pressure on City and the play was mostly on the opposition half. Numerous corners whistled across their box, but we were unable to convert. City’s strategy now was to get the ball into the space behind the left side of our defence for their strong and pacy winger to run onto. A couple of times she succeeded but more often than not Annie stepped in to take the ball or Bam ushered her into the corner. For the few times that she did escape, Pauline or AJ were there to assist and see off the danger. With time ebbing away and City looking increasingly desperate, Coton struck the killer blow and what a beautiful move it was; Winning the ball back and some sterling work from Lexie on right, the ball zipped through to Shannon on the left who quickly fed India on the flank. A jink inside and the reverse pass to Mads. Head up and a centred ball to an unmarked Kate who took her time to hit a sweet volley into the bottom corner with perfect technique. City looked deflated. Our girls had a couple of great chance to increase their lead in the last few minutes with the City keeper pulling off excellent saves to deny Mads what would have been a well deserved second goal in an all action captain’s performance.

Well played girls. Never easy against those top quality City Girls. A small break in the season now and we restart in the cup in early November 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

After the heavy downpour yesterday, we were wondering whether the Coton U14 Girls game, away at Cambridge City, would be played at all, but it turned out to be a perfect morning for football. The sun was out, the pitch was freshly lined and you could sense that both teams were really up for this one. Coton were a little unsure what to expect given that this was a different City team from last year, like us having lost some players to the JPL. However, we knew that they had replaced quality with quality, and that it likely would be a close fought affair. This proved to be the case.
There were few chances in a scrappy first half while both teams sized each other up. Emilia on her first start after a lengthy absence locked down the right side and Bam did the same on the left. Tes and AJ were a solid centre back combination with little troubling them. The only real City threat came from long passes from their goalkeeper, but these tended to skid through to Cha who calmly collected, and put in another flawless display of accurate kicking from the hand and grass. On the few occasions when a City player looked like they might get in on goal, AJ was there to sweep up with her speed and tenacity. Up top, Coton were struggling to break down a stubborn city defensive line. Alice was superbly holding the ball up but was unable to find an outlet with Ilazki, Mads and Lexie preoccupied in the battle to control the midfield. Then, as the clock ticked down to half-time, there was a sudden shift in momentum; Pauline deftly pulled down a clearance just over halfway and as she looked to skip past her marker, she was body checked. After a pause while Shannon came on to replace a groggy Pauline, India stepped up to take the free kick from 25 yards and hit a hard curling shot which dipped over the keeper to break the deadlock. One nil! Immediately the shackles came off. In one of the few flowing moves of the half Shannon sent India in on goal, on the right side of the penalty area, with a deft through ball, and India hit a powerful rising drive which skimmed the top of the crossbar. So close to going into half-time with a 2-nil lead but not to be.
The second half started much like the first but gradually Coton began to take control with Kate (having come on for Lexie) becoming increasingly influential. She battled hard out of possession and was calm and composed in possession, and Coton began to string some lovely passing moves together, working the ball through Ilazki and Shannon to Mads to India and India on the flanks. The Coton threat was growing while City were still to register a shot on goal. The pressure paid off when a clever interchange of passes on the right led to Emilia feeding a ball to Alice in the centre. Alice’s exquisite defence-splitting pass for a Mads run on the left who, without breaking stride, jinked inside and hit an unstoppable shot into the far corner. 2 nil! But we still couldn’t rest and Annie came on to sure up the Coton defence whilst a wounded City, realising they needed the next goal, upped their game. For the first time in the match, City got forward in numbers and exerted pressure on the our defence. After a scramble on the edge of our box the ball broke free to a City player in space with the goal beckoning, but their thunderbolt could only rattle the goal as it bounced off the bar. A let off and a wakeup call. But even with a City side on the ascendancy, our girls continued to retain possession, and still looked like the team in control. Lexie, now out on the right wing, proved an important and dangerous outlet for Coton, nearly escaping the City defence on several occasions, getting shots away, and keeping the City keeper busy. India continued to be a menace with her speed and trickery regularly causing panic in the City defence. As the half progressed our girls maintained pressure on City and the play was mostly on the opposition half. Numerous corners whistled across their box, but we were unable to convert. City’s strategy now was to get the ball into the space behind the left side of our defence for their strong and pacy winger to run onto. A couple of times she succeeded but more often than not Annie stepped in to take the ball or Bam ushered her into the corner. For the few times that she did escape, Pauline or AJ were there to assist and see off the danger. With time ebbing away and City looking increasingly desperate, Coton struck the killer blow and what a beautiful move it was; Winning the ball back and some sterling work from Lexie on right, the ball zipped through to Shannon on the left who quickly fed India on the flank. A jink inside and the reverse pass to Mads. Head up and a centred ball to an unmarked Kate who took her time to hit a sweet volley into the bottom corner with perfect technique. City looked deflated. Our girls had a couple of great chance to increase their lead in the last few minutes with the City keeper pulling off excellent saves to deny Mads what would have been a well deserved second goal in an all action captain’s performance.
Well played girls. Never easy against those top quality City Girls. A small break in the season now and we restart in the cup in early November 👍⚽️

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Always a pleasure to read those amazing match reports! 🙂

Thanks for yet another great write-up. Good win. Well done girls.

I know my comments are getting a little repetitive, sorry, i just look forward to the Saturday nite write, perhaps I need to get out more, but again great result, great write up , come on coton 💪

Coton Football Club

11 months ago

Back to Coton this weekend for the U14 Girls and a local derby against Cambourne. We know this Cambourne team so well, having been playing each other since U8s, with many cracking games through the years. Both teams were low on numbers due to a combination of injuries and sickness, so we opted for 9v9 for this one.

As always seems to be typical against Cambourne, we were asleep for the opening of the game, allowing their speedy Centre Forward to buzz through and fire in past Cha. Fortunately, this was the wake up call for our girls and the game quickly went very much in our favour! Highlights from the game were alertness and quality distribution from Cha. Calm defending and playing out from Tes. Crunching tackling by AJ and her first Coton goal. Great passing and thundering heading by Ilazki. Quick transition and build up by Bam. Wing wizardry by Mads and two more goals for her. Fast footwork and combinations by Shannon. Great assists and a cracking lobbed goal from Kate. First game back for Emilia, straight into the action and on the scoresheet too. Brilliant pressing and hold up play by Alice and her lovely assist for a AJ’s banger of a goal. And last but not least a perfect display of deadly finishing by Indie for all seven (yes, seven!) of her goals.

The team are really starting to find their stride now as we go into the big game next weekend against City. Well done girls, a very impressive performance 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Back to Coton this weekend for the U14 Girls and a local derby against Cambourne. We know this Cambourne team so well, having been playing each other since U8s, with many cracking games through the years. Both teams were low on numbers due to a combination of injuries and sickness, so we opted for 9v9 for this one.
As always seems to be typical against Cambourne, we were asleep for the opening of the game, allowing their speedy Centre Forward to buzz through and fire in past Cha. Fortunately, this was the wake up call for our girls and the game quickly went very much in our favour! Highlights from the game were alertness and quality distribution from Cha. Calm defending and playing out from Tes. Crunching tackling by AJ and her first Coton goal. Great passing and thundering heading by Ilazki. Quick transition and build up by Bam. Wing wizardry by Mads and two more goals for her. Fast footwork and combinations by Shannon. Great assists and a cracking lobbed goal from Kate. First game back for Emilia, straight into the action and on the scoresheet too. Brilliant pressing and hold up play by Alice and her lovely assist for a AJ’s banger of a goal. And last but not least a perfect display of deadly finishing by Indie for all seven (yes, seven!) of her goals.
The team are really starting to find their stride now as we go into the big game next weekend against City. Well done girls, a very impressive performance 👍⚽️

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Another great write up, and performance to match , well done girls 💪

Well done - and thanks as ever for the report.

Coton Football Club

11 months ago

Coton U14 Girls made the long trip over to Wellingborough to play Rushden and Diamonds this morning, with only 11 players in a (mostly) fit condition to play, and both unwell India and Tesni available on the bench to cover if absolutely needed. With both teams undefeated in the first few games this season, this encounter was a top of the table clash with the winner eyeing the driving seat for the season ahead.

Diamonds won the toss and elected to swap ends, and make our girls play slightly into the rising sun, on the massive pitch at the Old Grammarians Memorial Sports Field. We kicked off and did a good job of keeping the ball for the early stages as we found our feet and understood the space available on the pitch. Pauline, still on the recovery from last week, made some early runs down the left and in behind the Diamonds defence, but Alice and Lexie were unable to convert her cutbacks. AJ and Mads held a high line and any balls played in behind for the speedy Diamonds forwards were neatly collected in by an alert Cha. Kate, who missed most of the week of school through illness was putting in a fantastic performance, charging everywhere and winning everything. Alice has been amazing in all the games so far, and was the same today, constantly pressuring the Diamonds back line, giving them no time to build from the back. Pauline needed a minute to recover and came off, with India filling in. Poor Indie, under the weather, was unable to get her runs going today, as she would have had a field day on this big pitch otherwise. Lexie, making her first start in a Coton shirt, with pace and creativity down the right side continuously caused the Diamonds defence problems. Shannon and Ilazki interchanged passes and their exceptional close control and movement was a joy to watch as we moved through the gears in midfield. At left back, Bam was really on her game today, pressing high, always an outlet to recycle, and defensively solid to nullify the threat down the Diamonds right. On the right, Katty (also shaking off illness) put in a player of the game performance, using her pace to manage a very rapid Diamonds winger, always first to the ball, and calmly supporting the build up play with Lexie down our right or inside to Kate and Ilazki. She had a great game last week, but this tops it - well done Katty! Mads and AJ were never really troubled in the first half, both putting in very strong performances to keep the Diamonds forwards at bay. Lia, as ever, provided the conversation and light entertainment on the bench. A late challenge as we pushed forward, but no advantage, meant a free kick on the edge of the centre circle. Mads stepped up from centre back to fire it into the box, with Alice, Lexie and Shannon hovering. Kate and Ilazki took up a positions on the edge of the box, occupying their midfielders and distracting from Pauline’s clever cross field run. As the ball went in, Diamonds scrambled to clear, but Pauline was first to it, with a cheeky back-heal for Shannon to clip over the defence leaving a diving keeper to palm into her own net, and give us the lead. As the half drew to a close, Tes came on at the back which gave Mads an opportunity to move into a more attacking position and give us a hint of what was to come after the break.

Both teams began the second half brightly. AJ was called upon to make some big last ditch tackles to avoid their forwards being in on goal. Cha came out well to collect and her distribution was on point, kicking and throwing out well on the big pitch. Alice went high and gave their sweeper no time to build. With Mads upfield we were taking more risks, but the reward came quickly; back-to-goal on the edge of their area, Mads rolled the defender and struck a Worldie that the keeper had no chance with, sailing over everyone and dropping into the far side of the net. A cushion! The goal noticeably relaxed our girls and we started to play some of the best football we’ve seen so far this season…and keep in mind this is against a brilliant team who will be up at the top end of the table for the rest of the season. Hopefully with us too!! Next up was Lexie, never giving up and pressuring to win a loose ball on the edge of the box, she was in behind and thundered her shot past the keeper to put us 3 ahead. The game was much closer than a 3-0 though so the question was, could we hang on? Diamonds switched it up a bit and started to see more of the ball. The pitch had taken its toll and our team were tiring now. But we were still living dangerously, pressing for more goals and suddenly Diamonds were in behind us with a cool finish and reminder that this game was far from over. With their tails up, Diamonds hunted for that all important 2nd which would take this game into a super-stressful final 10 mins. Multiple corner, balls bouncing in our box, blocks by AJ, clearances by Katty, balls hacked away by Ilazki and Cha there to dive on the loose balls. This wasn’t the relaxed finale to a great game of football we were hoping for!! Time for Mads to drop back in and slow the game. Those final minutes were slow to tick but we had made it!

Aside from the win, which is always nice, we had been treated to a properly impressive game of football, with technique, skill, tempo, vision, and commitment across the park from both teams. A pleasure to play Rushden and Diamonds, who made us feel welcome and, whilst might be a little disappointed with the result, can only be massively proud of their team who are clearly a fantastic group of young women. We will see them again for another great game back at Coton in a few months! 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls made the long trip over to Wellingborough to play Rushden and Diamonds this morning, with only 11 players in a (mostly) fit condition to play, and both unwell India and Tesni available on the bench to cover if absolutely needed. With both teams undefeated in the first few games this season, this encounter was a top of the table clash with the winner eyeing the driving seat for the season ahead.
Diamonds won the toss and elected to swap ends, and make our girls play slightly into the rising sun, on the massive pitch at the Old Grammarians Memorial Sports Field. We kicked off and did a good job of keeping the ball for the early stages as we found our feet and understood the space available on the pitch. Pauline, still on the recovery from last week, made some early runs down the left and in behind the Diamonds defence, but Alice and Lexie were unable to convert her cutbacks. AJ and Mads held a high line and any balls played in behind for the speedy Diamonds forwards were neatly collected in by an alert Cha. Kate, who missed most of the week of school through illness was putting in a fantastic performance, charging everywhere and winning everything. Alice has been amazing in all the games so far, and was the same today, constantly pressuring the Diamonds back line, giving them no time to build from the back. Pauline needed a minute to recover and came off, with India filling in. Poor Indie, under the weather, was unable to get her runs going today, as she would have had a field day on this big pitch otherwise. Lexie, making her first start in a Coton shirt, with pace and creativity down the right side continuously caused the Diamonds defence problems. Shannon and Ilazki interchanged passes and their exceptional close control and movement was a joy to watch as we moved through the gears in midfield. At left back, Bam was really on her game today, pressing high, always an outlet to recycle, and defensively solid to nullify the threat down the Diamonds right. On the right, Katty (also shaking off illness) put in a player of the game performance, using her pace to manage a very rapid Diamonds winger, always first to the ball, and calmly supporting the build up play with Lexie down our right or inside to Kate and Ilazki. She had a great game last week, but this tops it - well done Katty! Mads and AJ were never really troubled in the first half, both putting in very strong performances to keep the Diamonds forwards at bay. Lia, as ever, provided the conversation and light entertainment on the bench. A late challenge as we pushed forward, but no advantage, meant a free kick on the edge of the centre circle. Mads stepped up from centre back to fire it into the box, with Alice, Lexie and Shannon hovering. Kate and Ilazki took up a positions on the edge of the box, occupying their midfielders and distracting from Pauline’s clever cross field run. As the ball went in, Diamonds scrambled to clear, but Pauline was first to it, with a cheeky back-heal for Shannon to clip over the defence leaving a diving keeper to palm into her own net, and give us the lead. As the half drew to a close, Tes came on at the back which gave Mads an opportunity to move into a more attacking position and give us a hint of what was to come after the break.
Both teams began the second half brightly. AJ was called upon to make some big last ditch tackles to avoid their forwards being in on goal. Cha came out well to collect and her distribution was on point, kicking and throwing out well on the big pitch. Alice went high and gave their sweeper no time to build. With Mads upfield we were taking more risks, but the reward came quickly; back-to-goal on the edge of their area, Mads rolled the defender and struck a Worldie that the keeper had no chance with, sailing over everyone and dropping into the far side of the net. A cushion! The goal noticeably relaxed our girls and we started to play some of the best football we’ve seen so far this season…and keep in mind this is against a brilliant team who will be up at the top end of the table for the rest of the season. Hopefully with us too!! Next up was Lexie, never giving up and pressuring to win a loose ball on the edge of the box, she was in behind and thundered her shot past the keeper to put us 3 ahead. The game was much closer than a 3-0 though so the question was, could we hang on? Diamonds switched it up a bit and started to see more of the ball. The pitch had taken its toll and our team were tiring now. But we were still living dangerously, pressing for more goals and suddenly Diamonds were in behind us with a cool finish and reminder that this game was far from over. With their tails up, Diamonds hunted for that all important 2nd which would take this game into a super-stressful final 10 mins. Multiple corner, balls bouncing in our box, blocks by AJ, clearances by Katty, balls hacked away by Ilazki and Cha there to dive on the loose balls. This wasn’t the relaxed finale to a great game of football we were hoping for!! Time for Mads to drop back in and slow the game. Those final minutes were slow to tick but we had made it!
Aside from the win, which is always nice, we had been treated to a properly impressive game of football, with technique, skill, tempo, vision, and commitment across the park from both teams. A pleasure to play Rushden and Diamonds, who made us feel welcome and, whilst might be a little disappointed with the result, can only be massively proud of their team who are clearly a fantastic group of young women. We will see them again for another great game back at Coton in a few months! 👍⚽️

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Amazing match summary as usual. Thx!

Thank you once more for the excellent summary. Well played girls.

Coton Football Club

12 months ago

Coton U14 Girls took on St Ives at the Rec today in what turned out to be a dominant performance by our girls. St Ives showed spirit and endeavour, but there was a noticeable gulf between the teams and our midfield of Shannon, Mads, Kate and Ilazki were on top form again.

The game started with both teams probing and figuring each other out. Our injury-hit group were without any subs today except for snuffly Tesni, hoping to sit this one out if possible. And nice to see Lia and Emilia in attendance even if unable to play yet. Still, it wasn’t long before a nice exchange of passing in the middle freed up Indie to cut in on her left foot and strike the ball high over the keeper into the far side of the goal. Top quality finish! Alice was into the action with a shot that caught the outside of the post to deflect out. Our midfield was ticking nicely, with Shannon and Mads winning the 50/50’s and Ilazki with some impressive footwork as we worked the ball out to Pauline or Indie in some nice passing moves. Kate and Pauline exchanged passes and Alice’s run took the defence away from India who’d found space on the edge of the box to thunder in a strike that gave the keeper no chance. Our girls continued the pressure, but the St Ives defence upped their game and they started to put together some moves of their own, getting in behind Annie but Cha was quickly out to collect. Ilazki took a pop shot from the edge, and another Alice shot hit the other post this time. Mads fed the ball to India who won a corner after forcing a sliding block by the St Ives defender. Indie’s pinpoint corner was met by Mads on the half volley for her first goal of the season. A stunner! More pressure from our girls with efforts by Pauline, Ilazki, Kate, and Alice, but the St Ives keeper did well. Now some quick feet by India and a late tackle gave the ref no choice but to point to the spot. Indie duly dispatched the penalty to bring up her first-half hat-trick! As the clock ticked down we kept up the pressure, with our defence quick to the challenge and the midfielder’s continually creating chances for our forwards. Indie was in again for the shot which the keeper could only parry back into the path of Kate who smashed in before the halftime whilst blew.

2nd half and we were straight back to where we left off. Ilazki’s quality control and turn in the middle, and ball slipped in to Mads for a run and left-foot banger of a shot and her second of the game. More quality from Ilazki, but now a foul quite far out and an opportunity for St Ives to get a shot on our goal. Their player struck it hard, but was well watched out by Charlotte. 6 behind, though St Ives showed no sign of giving up, pressuring down our left side, but calm work by Bam, AJ and Cha and still no way through. Shannon was first to everything in the middle and really on her game, but India was having a tougher time of it this half, after a tactical shift by St Ives had her up against a blazingly fast defender. Annie was strong to the ball giving the St Ives forwards a tough morning. Kate did well out wide and sent a ball teasingly across the St Ives area for Pauline to run on to, but her effort under pressure went just wide. Time to get AJ some time in the middle with Mads dropping into our back three. Straight into the action AJ lifted a long lobbed effort over everyone, with time standing still and the St Ives keeper stranded, but the ball landed on the topside of the net and out. Good hold up from Alice and ball back to Bam for a long shot that their keeper parried out. From the resulting Indie corner, Shannon arrived a bit early and couldn’t direct her trademark flick on target. Now AJ was winning everything in the middle. Bam sent a ball up the line for Pauline to chase but the St Ives defender did well and Pauline fell awkwardly twisting her knee. Not another injury and trip to A&E! After a long stoppage the game restarted with Tes at Centre back. Alice was having a stormer and Mads was on fire; a brilliant Alice turn to feed a Mad’s run, but her effort sailed just wide. Another Mads attempt from distance and forcing a diving save from the keeper. On the goal line Mads skipped in and cut a ball back, but Shannon, Kate and India couldn't find the finish. Mads in again but her left foot shot was saved by the keeper. A St Ives attack was well broken down by Tes, and on to Bam to send a ball back into the middle. Flicked through to Alice whose strong play, turn and shot across the keeper was a popular, and well deserved goal. Both sets of girls had done really well, but were starting to tire now in the sun. But then some patient pressure on the edge of the St Ives box with a ball across to India, and her smashed shot on edge of box for her fourth! Almost over now. More Coton possession. Tes to Ilazki. Out to Mads, one two with AJ but Mads had drifted offside. Another ball worked across the box for an India shot, pushed away for Shannon to recover and dance inside for a good block by the keeper and that final whistle.

There will be harder tests for the girls this season, and equally St Ives will have easier games, but the St Ives players kept us honest today and they can be proud. We were made to play good football in order to get this win, rather than what can often be the case of slipping into bad habits against a weaker team. A good game overall and our girls are starting to find their stride and consistency now. We wish Pauline a swift recovery! Best of luck to St Ives for their upcoming fixtures and we go again next week against league leaders Rushden and Diamonds 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Coton U14 Girls took on St Ives at the Rec today in what turned out to be a dominant performance by our girls. St Ives showed spirit and endeavour, but there was a noticeable gulf between the teams and our midfield of Shannon, Mads, Kate and Ilazki were on top form again.
The game started with both teams probing and figuring each other out. Our injury-hit group were without any subs today except for snuffly Tesni, hoping to sit this one out if possible. And nice to see Lia and Emilia in attendance even if unable to play yet. Still, it wasn’t long before a nice exchange of passing in the middle freed up Indie to cut in on her left foot and strike the ball high over the keeper into the far side of the goal. Top quality finish! Alice was into the action with a shot that caught the outside of the post to deflect out. Our midfield was ticking nicely, with Shannon and Mads winning the 50/50’s and Ilazki with some impressive footwork as we worked the ball out to Pauline or Indie in some nice passing moves. Kate and Pauline exchanged passes and Alice’s run took the defence away from India who’d found space on the edge of the box to thunder in a strike that gave the keeper no chance. Our girls continued the pressure, but the St Ives defence upped their game and they started to put together some moves of their own, getting in behind Annie but Cha was quickly out to collect. Ilazki took a pop shot from the edge, and another Alice shot hit the other post this time. Mads fed the ball to India who won a corner after forcing a sliding block by the St Ives defender. Indie’s pinpoint corner was met by Mads on the half volley for her first goal of the season. A stunner! More pressure from our girls with efforts by Pauline, Ilazki, Kate, and Alice, but the St Ives keeper did well. Now some quick feet by India and a late tackle gave the ref no choice but to point to the spot. Indie duly dispatched the penalty to bring up her first-half hat-trick! As the clock ticked down we kept up the pressure, with our defence quick to the challenge and the midfielder’s continually creating chances for our forwards. Indie was in again for the shot which the keeper could only parry back into the path of Kate who smashed in before the halftime whilst blew.
2nd half and we were straight back to where we left off. Ilazki’s quality control and turn in the middle, and ball slipped in to Mads for a run and left-foot banger of a shot and her second of the game. More quality from Ilazki, but now a foul quite far out and an opportunity for St Ives to get a shot on our goal. Their player struck it hard, but was well watched out by Charlotte. 6 behind, though St Ives showed no sign of giving up, pressuring down our left side, but calm work by Bam, AJ and Cha and still no way through. Shannon was first to everything in the middle and really on her game, but India was having a tougher time of it this half, after a tactical shift by St Ives had her up against a blazingly fast defender. Annie was strong to the ball giving the St Ives forwards a tough morning. Kate did well out wide and sent a ball teasingly across the St Ives area for Pauline to run on to, but her effort under pressure went just wide. Time to get AJ some time in the middle with Mads dropping into our back three. Straight into the action AJ lifted a long lobbed effort over everyone, with time standing still and the St Ives keeper stranded, but the ball landed on the topside of the net and out. Good hold up from Alice and ball back to Bam for a long shot that their keeper parried out. From the resulting Indie corner, Shannon arrived a bit early and couldn’t direct her trademark flick on target. Now AJ was winning everything in the middle. Bam sent a ball up the line for Pauline to chase but the St Ives defender did well and Pauline fell awkwardly twisting her knee. Not another injury and trip to A&E! After a long stoppage the game restarted with Tes at Centre back. Alice was having a stormer and Mads was on fire; a brilliant Alice turn to feed a Mad’s run, but her effort sailed just wide. Another Mads attempt from distance and forcing a diving save from the keeper. On the goal line Mads skipped in and cut a ball back, but Shannon, Kate and India couldnt find the finish. Mads in again but her left foot shot was saved by the keeper. A St Ives attack was well broken down by Tes, and on to Bam to send a ball back into the middle. Flicked through to Alice whose strong play, turn and shot across the keeper was a popular, and well deserved goal. Both sets of girls had done really well, but were starting to tire now in the sun. But then some patient pressure on the edge of the St Ives box with a ball across to India, and her smashed shot on edge of box for her fourth! Almost over now. More Coton possession. Tes to Ilazki. Out to Mads, one two with AJ but Mads had drifted offside. Another ball worked across the box for an India shot, pushed away for Shannon to recover and dance inside for a good block by the keeper and that final whistle.
There will be harder tests for the girls this season, and equally St Ives will have easier games, but the St Ives players kept us honest today and they can be proud. We were made to play good football in order to get this win, rather than what can often be the case of slipping into bad habits against a weaker team. A good game overall and our girls are starting to find their stride and consistency now. We wish Pauline a swift recovery! Best of luck to St Ives for their upcoming fixtures and we go again next week against league leaders Rushden and Diamonds 👍⚽️

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Another great write up , well played girls, it’s so great to read these write ups every Saturday, great credit what a team 💪👌

Thanks for the write-up. Good play by our girls.

Coton Football Club

12 months ago

Hi ChatGPT, Coton U14 Girls travelled to Newmarket yesterday for their first away game of the season. A brilliant game of football with newly promoted Newmarket giving us a run for our money all the way. Unfortunately Coach Sam was unable to be at the game, so no match report, but Lia (still recovering from her injury last week), took a set of notes. We wondered if you could put these together into a match report? [notes attached]

“Sure! Let me help with that…

Ladies and gentlemen, Coton U-Fourteeners faced the Newmarket Broncos hot from last season’s playoff finals in the midday kickoff yesterday at the Academy Stadium. Let's dive straight in with the highlights from this thrilling matchup:

It all kicked off on September 16, 2023, at 11:58 AM sharp, sun shining with the Fourteeners making the early play and gaining advantage into Newmarket territory. Coach Andy had set Coton with Cha at Safety, Tes and AJ at Inside and Outside Linebacker positions with Cornerbacks Katty and Annie providing wide cover. Mads at Tackle protected our Defence with Quarterback Shannon and Running Back Kate building the West Coast Offence in the center. At Right Wide Receiver, Indie with Pauline Left Wide Receiver caused havoc down the sidelines. Halfback Alice pressured the Broncos’ defence all game with her powerful running and was unlucky today to not to put points on the board. Interception: AJ and nice switch to the weak side. Coton press to the goal line and Newmarket forced to clear. Indie delivers the corner pass, scramble and Pauline smothers home. Touchdown: Coton! Newmarket possession now but a Kate hand on the centreline and the Field Judge signals the foul. Field Kick: Newmarket but Cha makes the Clutch Catch. Newmarket take the first timeout for changes. Katty with the steal and its Coton possession again. India with the long run deep but the Newmarket Safety is out to avoid a touchdown. More great play and the long switch from Indie before the Touch Judge halts play.

At the break it’s 1 to Nothing: Coton! Coach Andy has rolled the changes with Ilazki replacing the tiring Shannon at Quarterback. 2nd Quarter now and more possession from the Fourteeners. AJ with the long pass, and Pauline takes off ahead of the Newmarket Linebacker, and in for the chipped Field Goal over Safety. 2 Nothing Coton and more points on the board for MVP Pauline. Now more Coton Offence, and Kate with the long pass to Shannon, but a fumble and no Hail Mary. With the clock running down, Cha makes a big tackle. Coach Olly arrives late to raise the volume in the crowd. Alice goes for the field goal, but the Newmarket Safety is on her game today. Ilazki in the pocket shifts to Mads and Pauline for a nice series on the left. AJ clears and timeout: Coton for Shannon to come back on with Indie having the rest. Big shout Cha and the clean interception! Now into overtime, a corner cross from Pauline. Annie with a stellar clear, and Tes moves to Offence. Another Pauline attempted field goal, but too high. Kate steps up for the field kick after an epic AJ steal and Alice slides in for what would have been another deserved touchdown, but the Broncos’ Defence holds strong. The game is over and overall a fantastic team display by all the Fourteeners!

And there you have it, folks! An all action showdown with two great teams keeping those Gridiron fans on the edge of their seats! Until next time, keep enjoying the sports action, no matter what shape the ball is! 👍🏈” ... See MoreSee Less

Hi ChatGPT, Coton U14 Girls travelled to Newmarket yesterday for their first away game of the season. A brilliant game of football with newly promoted Newmarket giving us a run for our money all the way. Unfortunately Coach Sam was unable to be at the game, so no match report, but Lia (still recovering from her injury last week), took a set of notes. We wondered if you could put these together into a match report? [notes attached]
“Sure! Let me help with that…
Ladies and gentlemen, Coton U-Fourteeners faced the Newmarket Broncos hot from last season’s playoff finals in the midday kickoff yesterday at the Academy Stadium. Lets dive straight in with the highlights from this thrilling matchup:
It all kicked off on September 16, 2023, at 11:58 AM sharp, sun shining with the Fourteeners making the early play and gaining advantage into Newmarket territory. Coach Andy had set Coton with Cha at Safety, Tes and AJ at Inside and Outside Linebacker positions with Cornerbacks Katty and Annie providing wide cover. Mads at Tackle protected our Defence with Quarterback Shannon and Running Back Kate building the West Coast Offence in the center. At Right Wide Receiver, Indie with Pauline Left Wide Receiver caused havoc down the sidelines. Halfback Alice pressured the Broncos’ defence all game with her powerful running and was unlucky today to not to put points on the board. Interception: AJ and nice switch to the weak side. Coton press to the goal line and Newmarket forced to clear. Indie delivers the corner pass, scramble and Pauline smothers home. Touchdown: Coton! Newmarket possession now but a Kate hand on the centreline and the Field Judge signals the foul. Field Kick: Newmarket but Cha makes the Clutch Catch. Newmarket take the first timeout for changes. Katty with the steal and its Coton possession again. India with the long run deep but the Newmarket Safety is out to avoid a touchdown. More great play and the long switch from Indie before the Touch Judge halts play.
At the break it’s 1 to Nothing: Coton! Coach Andy has rolled the changes with Ilazki replacing the tiring Shannon at Quarterback. 2nd Quarter now and more possession from the Fourteeners. AJ with the long pass, and Pauline takes off ahead of the Newmarket Linebacker, and in for the chipped Field Goal over Safety. 2 Nothing Coton and more points on the board for MVP Pauline. Now more Coton Offence, and Kate with the long pass to Shannon, but a fumble and no Hail Mary. With the clock running down, Cha makes a big tackle. Coach Olly arrives late to raise the volume in the crowd. Alice goes for the field goal, but the Newmarket Safety is on her game today. Ilazki in the pocket shifts to Mads and Pauline for a nice series on the left. AJ clears and timeout: Coton for Shannon to come back on with Indie having the rest. Big shout Cha and the clean interception! Now into overtime, a corner cross from Pauline. Annie with a stellar clear, and Tes moves to Offence. Another Pauline attempted field goal, but too high. Kate steps up for the field kick after an epic AJ steal and Alice slides in for what would have been another deserved touchdown, but the Broncos’ Defence holds strong. The game is over and overall a fantastic team display by all the Fourteeners!
And there you have it, folks! An all action showdown with two great teams keeping those Gridiron fans on the edge of their seats! Until next time, keep enjoying the sports action, no matter what shape the ball is! 👍🏈”

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A lot has changed since last season.. including the code ;)

Great write up, 👌

This really made me laugh! Best one yet 😂

Coton Football Club

1 years ago

The excitement and tension of our opening fixture of the season was only outdone by the pantomime theatrics and bluster of Coach Olly on the sidelines as Coton U14 Girls took on Netherton in the baking morning heat at Coton Rec. 3 weeks of preseason, 2 friendlies and a lot of Joe Wicks(!) made us optimistic for a good start to the season, but in Netherton we faced a massive challenge; many peoples favourites for the league this season, and brimming with talent and power throughout their squad. Undoubtedly they dominated the majority of this match and fully deserved to win the game, but football is not always like that…

It was hard to judge how intense to make the prematch warm up in the heat, but Coach Kelly did a sterling job to ensure the girls were stretched and ready to go. We began brightly, playing the ball around and within a minute, nice work by Alice sent Pauline away down the right wing, drawing the Netherton defence across and leaving India in acres of space in the box to receive a pinpoint cross. Probably a bit early in the game for Indie, and a bit of indecision meant her effort clipped the post. But a positive start. Netherton started to get into the game, and their midfielders took control of the central areas, but could not make any direct progress as Anaya was in top form and cutting out everything. So Netherton were forced wider and began to find joy on the flanks. Charlotte was forced to make a good stop at her near post, but the succession of corners finally resulted in the opening goal as we failed to clear our lines and the ball was buried into the back of the net, giving Cha no chance. Netherton’s tails were up, and we were happy to come in for a drinks break just to catch our breath. Ilazki and Kate came on to add a bit of spark to the centre but the rest of the half followed a similar pattern, with our front players never getting much change out of a strong Netherton back line. Had it not been for the brilliance of AJ, and two outstanding stops from Cha, Netherton would have been out of sight before we’d even got to half time.

We hoped the break for the second half and a change of ends might spark something from our girls, but still Netherton kept up the pressure. We know their team to be strong and quick, but they played some fantastic one touch football today and our players were chasing shadows for most of the 3rd period. Tesni and Lia were called upon to clear, with Katarina and Bam continually being forced back down their lines. Luckily Cha was in top form, not just collecting crosses and shots but in distribution and transition. We started to create a couple of half chances with India and Pauline giving signs that we were not out of this game yet. A really nice interchange of passes between Alice and Kate sent Pauline in one on one, but a heavy touch and their outstanding keeper was given enough of a sniff to come and collect before Pauline had a chance to get her shot away. Drinks break, and one more roll of the dice. Lia’s prematch injury had gotten worse so AJ dropped in with Tes, and Mads went CDM. Shannon and Ilazki held the middle with Alice causing trouble up front. Pauline and India had the wings. And their wingers were having no joy out of Katty and Bam who both took the opportunity to put their foot on the ball and start us playing our game. Pauline and Indie ran up the lines and Alice continued to battle, forcing a corner. We’d not managed to properly attack the good deliveries from the corners in this game but this one was different, and Netherton could only scramble the ball wide to Shannon. Great control and a clipped cross come shot could only be palmed by the keeper into her own net. Fitting it was that on the day Shannon handed the captaincy over to Mads, that she score our opening goal of the season. Harsh on Netherton though who had almost held out for the 3 points. But 1-1 was not going to be the final score in this game…heads on now girls, get our shape and let’s go again. Within a minute, Pauline had scampered past her defender and was bearing down on goal. Time stood still as Alice, Indie and Shannon arrived in the box to take up good positions, but Pauline had tunnel vision and a finish to match, sliding low and sending our coaches and spectators into massive applause. We had 6 mins left on the clock. Could we hold on? It was one of the most tense finishes to a game we can remember. Netherton kept coming at us, with strength and speed. Our bench had hands in our mouths. Olly was bouncing and squealing like he’d collected one in the Crown Jewels. But on the pitch, Katty, Bam and Tes were amazing, and AJ was sensational as Netherton pressed for an equaliser. Ilazki and Shannon ran and ran, and Mads drove her team on. Pauline, Alice and Indie maintained the threat and worked hard for their team to win throws and slow the game with Kate and Lia cheering the girls on from the sidelines. And anyway, Cha was no way letting in another, picking out crosses and diving on loose balls, all the way to that final whistle.

Phew! And that whistle couldn’t have come soon enough. What you don’t need in a heatwave is a game like that, but to win a game like that feels very special. Massive credit to the Netherton girls, coaches and parents who more played their part and took the defeat gracefully, shaking hands and congratulating our girls. The season has only just begun and Netherton will, for sure, take some teams apart in the coming weeks and months. But today was our day! Even though it didn’t feel like it was going to be!! Well done girls! Roll on next week!! 👍⚽️ ... See MoreSee Less

The excitement and tension of our opening fixture of the season was only outdone by the pantomime theatrics and bluster of Coach Olly on the sidelines as Coton U14 Girls took on Netherton in the baking morning heat at Coton Rec. 3 weeks of preseason, 2 friendlies and a lot of Joe Wicks(!) made us optimistic for a good start to the season, but in Netherton we faced a massive challenge; many peoples favourites for the league this season, and brimming with talent and power throughout their squad. Undoubtedly they dominated the majority of this match and fully deserved to win the game, but football is not always like that…
It was hard to judge how intense to make the prematch warm up in the heat, but Coach Kelly did a sterling job to ensure the girls were stretched and ready to go. We began brightly, playing the ball around and within a minute, nice work by Alice sent Pauline away down the right wing, drawing the Netherton defence across and leaving India in acres of space in the box to receive a pinpoint cross. Probably a bit early in the game for Indie, and a bit of indecision meant her effort clipped the post. But a positive start. Netherton started to get into the game, and their midfielders took control of the central areas, but could not make any direct progress as Anaya was in top form and cutting out everything. So Netherton were forced wider and began to find joy on the flanks. Charlotte was forced to make a good stop at her near post, but the succession of corners finally resulted in the opening goal as we failed to clear our lines and the ball was buried into the back of the net, giving Cha no chance. Netherton’s tails were up, and we were happy to come in for a drinks break just to catch our breath. Ilazki and Kate came on to add a bit of spark to the centre but the rest of the half followed a similar pattern, with our front players never getting much change out of a strong Netherton back line. Had it not been for the brilliance of AJ, and two outstanding stops from Cha, Netherton would have been out of sight before we’d even got to half time.
We hoped the break for the second half and a change of ends might spark something from our girls, but still Netherton kept up the pressure. We know their team to be strong and quick, but they played some fantastic one touch football today and our players were chasing shadows for most of the 3rd period. Tesni and Lia were called upon to clear, with Katarina and Bam continually being forced back down their lines. Luckily Cha was in top form, not just collecting crosses and shots but in distribution and transition. We started to create a couple of half chances with India and Pauline giving signs that we were not out of this game yet. A really nice interchange of passes between Alice and Kate sent Pauline in one on one, but a heavy touch and their outstanding keeper was given enough of a sniff to come and collect before Pauline had a chance to get her shot away. Drinks break, and one more roll of the dice. Lia’s prematch injury had gotten worse so AJ dropped in with Tes, and Mads went CDM. Shannon and Ilazki held the middle with Alice causing trouble up front. Pauline and India had the wings. And their wingers were having no joy out of Katty and Bam who both took the opportunity to put their foot on the ball and start us playing our game. Pauline and Indie ran up the lines and Alice continued to battle, forcing a corner. We’d not managed to properly attack the good deliveries from the corners in this game but this one was different, and Netherton could only scramble the ball wide to Shannon. Great control and a clipped cross come shot could only be palmed by the keeper into her own net. Fitting it was that on the day Shannon handed the captaincy over to Mads, that she score our opening goal of the season. Harsh on Netherton though who had almost held out for the 3 points. But 1-1 was not going to be the final score in this game…heads on now girls, get our shape and let’s go again. Within a minute, Pauline had scampered past her defender and was bearing down on goal. Time stood still as Alice, Indie and Shannon arrived in the box to take up good positions, but Pauline had tunnel vision and a finish to match, sliding low and sending our coaches and spectators into massive applause. We had 6 mins left on the clock. Could we hold on? It was one of the most tense finishes to a game we can remember. Netherton kept coming at us, with strength and speed. Our bench had hands in our mouths. Olly was bouncing and squealing like he’d collected one in the Crown Jewels. But on the pitch, Katty, Bam and Tes were amazing, and AJ was sensational as Netherton pressed for an equaliser. Ilazki and Shannon ran and ran, and Mads drove her team on. Pauline, Alice and Indie maintained the threat and worked hard for their team to win throws and slow the game with Kate and Lia cheering the girls on from the sidelines. And anyway, Cha was no way letting in another, picking out crosses and diving on loose balls, all the way to that final whistle.
Phew! And that whistle couldn’t have come soon enough. What you don’t need in a heatwave is a game like that, but to win a game like that feels very special. Massive credit to the Netherton girls, coaches and parents who more played their part and took the defeat gracefully, shaking hands and congratulating our girls. The season has only just begun and Netherton will, for sure, take some teams apart in the coming weeks and months. But today was our day! Even though it didn’t feel like it was going to be!! Well done girls! Roll on next week!! 👍⚽️

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So pleased for you all! 💪🏻 👏

Crown Jewels, love it!!😂

What a group of girls 💪

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Coton Football Club

1 years ago

Congratulations to the Lionesses on reaching the World Cup Final!! 💪⚽️

The game is being shown at The Willow Tree teepee in Bourn - why not all come down! Children welcome to have a kick-about in the meadow from 9am👍⚽️

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World Cup Final LIVE this Sunday at The Willow Teepee 🦁

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