Caversham pay harsh price for missed chances

Caversham took an early lead with a brilliantly taken Evie goal at Laurel Park in a game of contrasting halves that saw an injury affected line up take to the field. With Leah starting her first game for over 6 months and Maud playing centre back for the first time, Caversham were always struggling to contain Laurel Park's strike force. Anna had a another good game in what was a busy morning for the back four that also saw Niamh and Martha kept busy. Caversham made the better chances in a first half that saw Evie force a brilliant save onto the post and Daisy hit her shot straight at the keeper when clean through. However, Laurel Park equalised when a defensive mix up allowed a shot to be poked home and when a Laurel Park cross looped over Serena from a tight angle into the top corner just before half time, Caversham could consider it harsh to be behind at the break.

With plenty to play for in a tight game, Caversham were immediately on the back foot as the physicality of the game took it's toll on Lianne, Leonie, Grace, Izzy and Ruby in midfield. As the attacks came the defence become increasingly dis-organised and Laurel Park extended their lead shortly after the break. Caversham were given the benefit of the doubt following a tangle in the box as the referee waved away penalty appeals and perhaps that was in mind when soon afterwards a harsh looking penalty was awarded for handball. Caversham were given a lift as Serena saved the spot kick, but it was short lived as Laurel Park hit their fourth with 20 mins left to play.

With the game lost, Caversham heads dropped and they were punished by a ruthless display of finishing as Laurel Park took full advantage. It was a rare drop of discipline by Caversham in the final quarter as Laurel Park added four more, but also a lesson that in 11 a-side the goals can come very quickly indeed when focus is lost. By the admission of the Laurel Park coach it was a score that flattered Laurel Park and it was certainly a second half that Caversham will want to forget.