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Having just the bear 11 players for this
game it was always going to be a difficult match but after initial
pressure from Tipton the Reds settled down and started to create
chances. Kellie Smith hit the post from close range and although the
ball flew across the goal line it came out rather than in and just
before half time a looping shot from Hannah Patrick (Paddie) hit the
same post with the keeper beaten. Tipton also hit the post although
Kirsty Grigg, in goal, ensured everyone that she had it covered should
it have been going in. the rest of the first half was competitive but
with no other chances of note.
Redditch vulnerability to conceding an
early goal was again exposed, however no-one could deny the excellent
finish of the Tipton forward, a superb strike from about 25 yards that
flew over Grigg who stood no chance of stopping it. Redditch didn't
panic and persistent pressure paid off when a penalty was awarded for
hand ball, perhaps slightly fortunate to get the decision but nothing
less than the team deserved. Laura Perkins stood up and hammered the
ball in to the net.
Tipton then had a very good chance to go ahead but a
super save from Grigg kept the Reds level and shortly after a snappy
passing move saw the ball at Jess Linghams feet she dropped a shoulder,
stepped inside the defender and shot past the static Tipton keeper.
Redditch then had the upper hand and with regular attacks looked the
more likely to score again, which they did as a Tipton defender could
only deflect a Perkins corner into her own goal.
Redditch continued to work hard and Toni
McQuaid made two superb tackles to deny the Tipton forwards, whilst a
goal mouth scramble saw several players involved determined not to
concede a second. This game saw the players play for one another in a
manner resembling the team of last season. They did themselves proud in
a game enjoyed by the players, spectators and management, well done and
lets keep it going |