Match Report - CRYSTAL PALACE FC - 03 Feb 2024

Fine Margins at Cobham!

Another first meeting for the team, welcoming Crystal Palace to Cobham for a game on the grass, a bit of a novelty these days with most matches played on 3Gs. Still no Emilia or Jess through injury but some good news with Laila’s return from her ankle injury.

Although not pretty football to start with, the team seemed more purposeful in their play than in the previous week against Epsom. They stood up well to a committed Palace side and after a 15 minute arm wrestle, Emilie made the early break through, latching onto Megan’s clever reverse pass, holding off her defender and finishing well under pressure (1-0). The home team had further chances although probably the best chance falling to Liv, fooled by a bobble when about to pull the trigger and Maddie striking the loose ball just over. Palace had a number of half chances but the team were resilient and finished the first half in the ascendancy with the goal lead.

HT 1-0

Chances came and went in the early stages of the second period, Liv finding space but shooting wide, then seeing her header saved. The visiting goalkeeper was equal to Izzy’s strike on the hour mark as the girls seeked the second goal and some breathing space but without that goal the away team were always in the match. Particularly tricky and quick on the flanks, the girls worked over time to stem the attacks, their continued endeavour eventually paid dividends, the visiting player tripped in the penalty area when about to shoot and the penalty conceded. A well taken spot kick and parity to the scoreline (1-1). A good reaction to the goal against from the team but a mistake with 10 minutes remaining flipped the match, a ball into the area not cut out and an easy finish for Palace (1-2). Another good reaction but the team could not force an equalising goal, although it wasn’t through a lack of trying, a chance cleared off the goal line, Charlotte close with a free kick and Meg very unlucky not to be awarded a penalty kick after being downed in the box. It was not to be however, the clock ticked past ninety minutes and the final whistle was blown.

FT:

WTFC 1-2 Palace

POM:

Megan (a hard working, disciplined display and a superb assist for the goal).

Summary:

The team worked hard today, when passes were not connecting they dug deep to make life difficult for their opposition. Fine margins decided the outcome and the girls can feel slightly aggrieved not to get a late penalty. Very unlucky not to take points from a good, competitive match.