Under 16 COE Match Reports
By Darren George

Coventry City Ladies 4 - 2 Aston Villa
COE Cup Final 13/5/06

Having defeated league champions Leicester City, Wolves, Derby and the necessary draw with Birmingham, the Sky Blues met local rivals Aston Villa at The Tally Ho Club in Birmingham for the Centre Of Excellence Cup Final.

A very large crowd attended and with a superb playing surface provided everyone was hopeful of seeing some good football played. With Grog-ee passing her Wednesday night X-ray at Walsgrave Gobby was relieved to be playing at right back rather than between the posts (little did she know what would happen later in the match)

Ziggy was also passed fit despite her injured thumb and cancelling her level 1 course for the job in hand. Villa have several excellent players and the City management warned the girls that if we didn’t have 15 players playing at full throttle then the journey home would be a quiet one.

City started very brightly and with Chan and Mozza winning the ball as requested early on, the ball spent most of the first period in the Villa half. Formo was seeing lots of the ball down the right and also tracking back to assist Gobby in dealing with the impressive and very quick Helen Shipman. Shirker and Lefty were very industrious upfront and kept the villa girls guesses as to where they were going to move to next. The sky blues took a deserved lead when from good build up play Chan was on hand to fire the ball home from 12 yards. City continued to dominate the play with H becoming more involved down the left and Mozza and Chan still bossing the middle of the park.

However we couldn’t find the 2nd goal and Villa got back into the game when the ball wasn’t cleared from the box and the resulting shot gave Grog-ee no chance. The girls kept their heads and regained the lead when Chan again drove forward and headed past the keeper the ball appeared to be going just wide until Shirker popped up to help the ball home (there were cries of offside and they may have been valid) however Coventry pressed on again and from the best move of the half very nearly scored again.

Gobby took a throw in inline with our box and found Smiffy’s feet, she passed to fellow centre back Lou, onto left back Midge who found ‘H’ free down the left wing she drove forward and laid off a pass that Chan hit first time but rather than see the net bulge we heard thud of the ball smacking off the far post and away to safety.

So at half time the score line read Villa 1 v 2 Coventry

The team talk was upbeat but mixed with ‘the job is only half done’ message at the same time.

The girls responded brilliantly to the talk and took command of the game when from a free kick ‘H’ whipped in a beauty from 20 yards that gave the keeper no chance ( I’ve waited all season ‘H’ and what a game to deliver the goods). 10 minutes later and the game was wrapped up when the impressive captain Mozza took charge in the Villa box before firing the ball home again giving Sam Edmunds no chance.

City made 4 changes with Wispa , Brad, Ziggy and Kippa replacing Formo , Lefty, ‘H’ and Midge.

The sky blues very nearly went 5 v 1 ahead when a superb free kick from Brad , beat the keeper but was headed off the line by a defender. Up the other end Grog-ee made 2 or 3 brave saves at striker’s feet and took a knock from one incidedent. City started to give away some needless free kicks and from one Villa found a lifeline when Tash Merritt stuck her kick superbly with Grog only able to get finger tips to the ball. Naturally this lifted the Villa girls and only a superb blocking save from Grog kept the score as it was, however the referee deemed that she was outside her area at the point of impact and decided that she would have to leave the field ( perhaps a little harsh ).

However Gobby went in ( see told you that you might have to m8) and despite some intense pressure she managed to keep a clean sheet. Indeed City may have been unlucky not to be awarded a penalty when a fabulous break away run by Kippa ended with her being tripped from behind in the box. Unfortunately the referee wasn’t near enough to give the crucial decision and gave the free kick outside the box. Shortly after the whistle went for full time and Coventry’s under 16’s had won their 2nd trophy within 4 weeks to top a very memorable season.

The referee adjudged that Formo was the player of the match and she was duly given a brand new match ball to remember the day by. This was a fabulous TEAM performance with all the girls playing a significant part not only in the final but in the 4 group games as well. Congratulations to Aston Villa for a memorable match and no doubt there will be many more tense occasions as the girls move into the senior sections of each club.

On a personal note from me.. Thanks to Webby for her coaching and to the Main man Neil Wilson for some wonderful management of the girls especially over the last few weeks , I’ve learnt a lot this year and had a wonderful time . Well done to Mozza for leading the team brilliantly despite her tender age and strange accent and to mummy mozza for the splendid grub every week.

Good luck to all the players next season whether they are staying with the 16’s or moving up to the ladies.

Shrewsbury Town 3 - 2 Coventry City Ladies
League 29/4/06

The sky blues travelled to Shrewsbury with an outside chance of finishing runners up in the league and went home soundly beaten following a very poor performance. Taking nothing away from the home team who were very worthy winners, there was very little for both management and supporters of Coventry to get excited about. Individually there were some very lethargic performances and at no time did the team function as one unit. 3 or 4 girls did try very hard and in particular Formo who did very well at both right back and in midfield.

With Leicester next week and Villa in the cup some improvement will be needed. City’s goal scorers were Ziggy (who worked hard) and Mozza from the spot.

Well done to Shrewsbury who got exactly what they deserved as did we!

Coventry City Ladies 1 - 0 Wolverhampton Wands
League 1/4/06

Having a full squad to choose from and with the sky blue girls playing some nice football of late we welcomed the Wolves to Coventry University on a bright but breezy day , overnight rain had softened the ground considerably but everyone looked forward to a competitive game.

Wolves had the benefit of the wind in the first half and started well with their central midfielders competing strongly with Mozza and Chan as both sides tried to gain the upper hand. The City back four had been asked to stay together as a unit and react quickly when pushing forward, this they did brilliantly and the Wolves forwards were caught offside on several occasions. At the other end Coventry went close to taking the lead when Lefty stretched out her right foot but stabbed the ball just wide of the near post. Formo had a couple of good runs down the right and tried a shot from 30 yards which the keeper dealt with comfortably. A swift move from Wolves had city on the back foot and the resultant shot from the angle of the box was tipped wide of the far post by the diving Katie, A good corner was whipped in but headed to safety by Smiffy. Fullbacks Kippa and Midge were both enjoying good games defending well and looking to find feet with their passes and centre backs Smiffy and Lou were keeping possession rather than panic (well done). After 30 minutes City made 3 substitutions with Brad, Ziggy and Chan making way for Ego, Shirker and ‘H’. With half time approaching Midge gained possession and slotted a lovely through ball for Lefty to run onto, as usual Lefty kept her head and slotted the ball past the advancing keeper to give City the lead at the break.

Into the 2nd half and Wispa came on for Kippa and Gobby replaced Formo as City looked to capitalize on their possession. Shirk went very close from a great cross from Lefty and Mozza saw 2 shots go wide. H made several great runs down the right and from one she cut inside the box and shot with her left foot but the ball was deflected out for a corner. Wolves as always were dangerous on the break and another fine save from Katie, this time diving to her left kept City’s noses infront. Gobby and Mozza went for the same ball and had a nasty collision of heads with Mozza coming off worse with a cut mouth ( didn’t shut her up much though) after treatment both girls were fit to carry on and shortly after Gobby won possession in midfield and went on a super run down the right but unfortunately just over ran the ball and it went for a goal kick. Brad came back on for Ego and did well to set lefty free in the corner, her cross fell perfectly for Shirk who just got too much under the ball and her shot went over the bar for the last kick of the game.

Another good performance on a heavy pitch with Wolves competing very well and once again played in great spirit. Lots of positives for the sky blues management with every player contributing positively which will make team selection for the final a difficult task. Defensively we were well organised and well led by both Katie and Lou with Midge enjoying her best game of the season not only defending very well but play making as well which was fab to see Well done and keep it up.

Coventry City Ladies 3 - 2 Derby County
League 25/3/06

The Sky Blues entertained the Rams at Cov Uni without Gobby who was suffering from mumps and with skipper Mozza taking her turn on the bench.

Coventry started very brightly and were looking to play football and keep possession rather than panic and play long. The pre match instruction had been for a passing game from the back when possible and don’t worry if mistakes occur.

City dominated most of the first half and was creating plenty of openings by doing just as they had been asked. Shirker went close Brad and Formo also had good shots just go wide and H hit a thunderbolt that smashed the cross bar before dropping on the line and away. Derby were competing well and always looking to counter, the midfield was very competitive in particular and was fairly even. Fullbacks Wispa and Kippa were seeing plenty of the ball and having confidence To make good use of it. Despite all the possession that City had enjoyed it was to be Derby who took a 1 v 0 lead into the half time interval when from 40 yards plus a speculative shot sailed over every body’s heads and into the net.

At the break the girls were urged to carry on playing just as they had been and that surely there rewards would come.

This they did and although Derby did appear to step up their work rate the sky blues got their well earned equaliser when Formo jinked past 4 players before rifling her shot into top corner from the apex of the 6 yard area. We had waited 17 games for the goal and it was worth every second of the wait, a real beauty and just reward for Formo’s superb performances of late.

Derby were enjoying more possession in this half and had 2 or 3 edge of box shots go just wide to warn City that they still had plenty to do After 55mins Ziggy came off ( great to see her getting back to fitness after so long on the treatment couch) to be replaced by Mozza , who made an immediate impression getting in where it hurts and winning possession. Great work by Kippa and Mozza forced a save from the ram’s keeper however Formo was on hand to notch her 2nd from close range. Just like the buses in Bedworth, Ya wait for ages for 1 and then 2 turn up together.

City had several corners and Shirk headed just wide from one and with 10 minutes left Derby drew level, when from a Free Kick City set their defensive line too high up the park. The ball was played over the defence for Newton to run onto, Katie did well to force her wide, but couldn’t prevent the cross and the ball was forced home from the spot.

This set up a very exciting finish and shirker put the ball in the net but was ruled out for offside (correctly). However with 2 minutes remaining Smiffy sent a lovely through ball into Shirkers path and she finished in superb style having this time stayed in line with the last defender.

This was a tremendous game of football contested well by two well matched teams. Lots of excellent passing moves and some good finishing from both sides Well done to you all.

Coventry City Ladies 0 - 2 Leicester City
League 18/3/06

With the sky blues the only team to beat Leicester this season (cup) this was an eagerly awaited contest with the foxes appearing to be favourites for the league title going into the game.

The Coventry management decided to put an extra body into midfield and play with just the one upfront. Once again a freezing cold wind was the order of the day as the match began. Leicester dominated the opening exchanges and were moving the ball well without threatening the sky blue net severely. Although Leicester were on top Coventry were playing football rather than just clearing their lines, which was very good to see. Upfront Shirker was working very hard but the sky blues weren’t managing to make in roads into the Leicester defence. The Foxes took the lead when the Coventry defence lost its shape momentarily and following a fierce shot from the right Katie blocked the shot well but Loz Turner reacted first to fire the rebound home. This would be a big test for Coventry who had worked hard to keep a clean sheet against the head on wind. Their resolve was tested further when skipper Mozza was booked for her first foul having been on the receiving end twice herself. However, fight hard they did and started to enjoy more possession themselves. A Smiffy free kick went narrowly wide with the keeper beaten and H was testing the right back to the limit. The half time talk was upbeat with the instruction of more of the same please girls.

Coventry won an early corner that caused a goal mouth scramble but on the counter attack Leicester doubled their lead when Nat Reay broke free and slotted past the advancing Katie in great style. Soon after the sky blue management changed the formation to 3-4-3 as we went in search of a goal. The new approach certainly proved enterprising as first H went on a superb run beating 4 or 5 players before shooting into the side netting. Shortly afterward Ziggy found space down the right beat her marker and shot but the keeper caught the ball well from above her head. Leicester were of course still dangerous going forward but were having to defend more and when Formo picked up the ball in her own half , she decided to do what she does best and run at the opposition , 40 metres and 5 defenders later she unleashed her shot from the edge of the box and we all thought what a goal , sadly the ball missed the near post by inches and Coventry’s last chance of a well deserved goal went with it. For some reason the referee had also booked a Leicester player and Formo in a well contested clean game , which left both sets of management very displeased.

Leicester deserved their victory and are a fine team but Coventry can be very pleased with their efforts as they never gave up and always tried to play a passing game even when under pressure. Well done to both teams and the parents for standing in the teeth of the wind.

Special thanks to Mrs Mozza for the incredible buffet that followed in the club house it definitely was ham and stuffing though Sue! Can we have cheese n pineapple on sticks next week please?

Aston Villa 0 - 2 Coventry City Ladies
League 25/2/06

Lou and Midge returned from sunning themselves to a bitterly cold windy day at Moor Lane for this dress rehearsal for the cup final in May. The Villa girls have been in very good form in recent weeks and were the dominant side for most of the first half but as usual the sky blue defence remained rock solid. Kippa cleared the danger when sweeping up on the edge and followed up with a superb headed goal line clearance from a corner. Both teams were trying to play football in the difficult conditions which is always nice to see. H had a good run into the box but was unable to get her shot away and Formo went very close following good work from Shirker.

At the other end a sweet volley from Villa went safely over the bar before Chan went on a fine run before unleashing a shot that just curled wide on the wind. The Villa girls were ahead on points at half time as Mozza had to be replaced for an injury to her ankle. H dropped into midfield as Brad came on upfront. City started the second half well and it wasn’t long before Formo teased the defence and was brought down inside the box. H walked forward to take the penalty and repeated her Kidderminster speciality of having the kick saved by the keeper but following up for the rebound and forcing the ball home for the lead. Villa responded well but the city defence lead superbly by Gobby were proving up to the job as usual.

Grog-ee and Kippa collided in a goal mouth scramble which left Katie with a bloody mouth and Kippa with a limp but both lived to tell their respective tales. Coventry doubled their lead with a fine shot from Shirker from the D which effectively sealed the game for the sky blues. Midge, Lou and Ziggy all had 20 plus minutes as they bid to regain their fitness and sharpness for the coming weeks.

This was a very good effort from both teams and played in a very sporting manner. We all look forward to the final when hopefully we will be requiring a few less layers than were needed today. Well done both teams.

Coventry City U16’s ladies arrived at a very foggy Moor Lane requiring just 1 point to secure their place in the first ever centre of excellence cup final. Having lost to the Blues in January the sky blues management decided to change the formation for today and opted to play with 5 at the back but with the 2 full backs encouraged to push forward when appropriate. More good news for Coventry was being able to welcome back Ziggy into the side for the first time since November 5th.

Coventry kicked up the slope in the first half and it soon became clear that the formation and commitment from the players was going to give us a good chance of achieving our target. Birmingham have some fine players and in particular their strikers and attacking midfielders but today the sky blue midfield and defence were matching them in every department and giving them no time on the ball. At the other end ‘H’ was looking to be our outlet down the right and was giving the blues left back a tough time whilst Shirker worked tirelessly as the sole striker.

Blues sent over a couple of near post crosses which Katie handled very well at ground level and things were looking very solid for the sky blues. A strong run from captain Mozza ended with her being fouled 25 yards out. Mozza reacted quickly and rolled the ball through to ‘H’ who went past her marker before giving the keeper no chance from 12 yards. City went close on a couple of occasions from corners but were unable to increase their advantage before half time.

Ego had come on for Brad and was once again doing a fine job, this time down the left and indeed a lovely through ball from her set up shirker who was denied a goal by the keeper’s legs. Blues were throwing more bodies forward and were creating more chances and only some tremendous saves from the inform Katie kept the sheet clean. The first was with an outstretched left leg and was soon followed by a finger tip push past the post, again diving to her left. Blues delivered some good corners but again the City defence coped well and the sky blues counter attacked several times themselves but just couldn’t find that all important second goal.

With 10 minutes left a miss hit Coventry free kick fell to a blues midfielder who delivered a long ball up field where the ever impressive Penny Andrea did what she does best, wriggled past her marker before blasting the ball into the net despite Katie getting a glove on it. This obviously set up a tense last 9 minutes as Lefty had to come off through injury and Kippa went on the right as H switched to left back.

From a corner Katie was able to tip the ball over at the near post and from the retake the ref blew for a foul before blues put the ball into the net. Ziggy came on for Shirk to get a taste of the atmosphere and was indeed the last player on the ball deep in blues half when the referee blew for full time. This was a tremendous match played in a great spirit by both sides with Blues always looking dangerous upfront, with Coventry defending superbly as a team.

Having beaten Leicester, Wolves and Derby and sharing the points with Blues The Coventry girls have thoroughly deserved their place in the final on May 13th when they will take on Aston Villa on what promises to be a fabulous day for everyone. Well Done

Coventry City Ladies 3 - 1 Derby County
Cup 11/2/06

Following a close inspection of all the pitches, the referee decided that the game was on following the heavy overnight frost. Coventry got off to a dream start in only the 2nd minute when the under pressure Derby defender turned the ball across the face of the penalty box just as ‘H’ was arriving , a deft first touch was followed by a superb finish past the out of position keeper.

Derby then dominated most of the play for the next 20 minutes with the ever dangerous Cara Newton proving a handful for the city defence. Katie was called into action several times throwing herself at the feet of the strikers 2 or 3 times and having to receive lengthy treatment following one clash. Ego came on for Shirk after 20 mins and got stuck into the role very well indeed. Back up the other end a superb strike from one of the rams looked odds on a goal but Grog-ee just managed to get enough of her left glove on the ball to deflect it over to safety.

Having weathered the rams onslaught the sky blues increased their lead when a quickly taken free kick on the half way line by Chan was chased down by Ego , a defender got to the ball first but with Ego breathing down her neck and getting her foot in at the crucial time the ball ended up in the back of the net and we will credit that one to Ego .

At half time the Sky Blues were told that they hadn’t played well and would need to work harder and try to get the ball on the deck and play some ‘football’.

Kippa came on for Gobby at right back and the second half started with Derby once again taking the game to City. Katie had to make a couple of good diving saves early on but the sky blues then started to play with more purpose. Mozza and Chan began to win a bit more possession and bring Formo into the game more down the right flank. Good work down the left by H ended with the ball in the box and Brad scored a beauty with a lovely turn and shot with her right foot which gave the keeper no chance from 12 yards.

Shirk came back on as Formo and H came off for a rest and Gobby slotted in at left back as Lefty went on the wing. Derby got back into the game when Newton just got the better of wispa and was able to steer the ball wide of Katie. 2 minutes later and Newton again broke clear but this time a superbly timed tackle from wispa in the area thwarted the danger.

Brad came off and Formo went upfront and very nearly added to the score but was denied by the keeper’s feet from close range and shortly after the referee blew for full time.

This was a very competitive and close game with City converting more of their chances than Derby. City keeper Katie was probably the difference between the sides on the day and thanks to the Derby management for their kind words about her ( still stinks though don’t she). Well done to both teams for playing well on the changing surface and good luck to Derby in their remaining cup fixtures.

Coventry City Ladies 1 - 1 Stoke City
League 4/2/06

The Sky blues welcomed both Kippa and Gobby back to strengthen the squad, both started on the bench . ‘H’ was coughing and spluttering in the dressing room but we started with the same 11 as last week. Stoke soon made it clear that they were up for the job and not only did they close down and work hard all over the pitch but they were playing some very nice football indeed even if they weren’t really threatening the city goal. City’s slick passing game from last week wasn’t happening mainly due to the high work rate from stoke. H was only able to play for 15 mins being replaced by Gobby . Shirk went upfront and gobby to right mid.

Coventry began to get into the game as Mozza and Chan took more control . Indeed a through ball fell to Lefty who ran at the advancing keeper and with her new found confidence she calmly chipped the ball over and into the net for a very nice goal. However City allowed Stoke straight back into the game when from a free kick everyone stood and watched as the ball went through or past everyone and into the net.

Coventry responded well and went close on two or 3 occasions including hitting the bar but the scores remained level at the break

Coventry played with more purpose in the 2nd half as Formo went to right mid. Chan really upped her work rate and was matching her captains example very well indeed. . Shirker went close Brad too and Formo made a brilliant run but the keeper just managed to get her fingers to the shot and the danger was cleared. Having covered around about 8 miles Mozza was forced to come off when her quad seized up Terri made her long awaited reappearance at right back and smiffy went into midfield. Coventry dominated the final 15 minutes of play but weren’t able to get the all important winner .

Stoke deserved a point for their teamwork and effort (well done) and Coventry showed improved effort in the 2nd half which was a positive. Terri enjoyed a very good 20 minutes which was another bonus as we look forward to the cup game with Derby next week

Kidderminister Harriers 0 - 3 Coventry City Ladies
League 28/1/06

With only eleven players available , school missed by many to be ok to play (tut tut) and 6 of the girls trying new positions , the management were expecting this to be a very tough game. With the pitch still a little frozen the match kicked off on time and Kidderminster were at City’s new look defence of Formo , Smiffy ,Wispa and Midge from the off , but that defence held firm and any danger was cleared. Chan had slotted into centre mid next to Mozza and was about to enjoy her best game of the season by far. Getting her foot in , and being strong , but playing some lovely football at the same time. Shirker and Brad took up the wide midfield roles and met the challenge superbly , whilst upfront Lefty and ‘H’ started to look a very promising partnership. City should have been awarded a penalty when lefty had her feet taken from her , but the ref waved play on. The midfield duo of Chan and Mozza were bossing that key area of the pitch and if 1 missed the headers the other 1 was there to back up superbly. Smiffy was leading the back line superbly and mopped any scraps that came her way with ease. The sky blues took a well deserved lead when a lovely cross from Brad was controlled by lefty before being fired home . City then had another penalty appeal turned down after ‘H’ was tripped by the keeper having wriggled past her.

At Half time the girls were praised for their efforts but warned that they would need to keep up the work rate to ensure a victory.

To be honest the girls performed superbly in the 2nd half with many moves starting from Grog-ee and involving defenders whenever possible. One such move was from keeper to formo onto shirk back to formo onto ‘H’ before shirk squared for Mozza to pass the ball into the net from 12 yards (wonderful stuff)

Lefty had gone very close to scoring her 2nd when her flicked volley just climbed too high and went over the bar. Kidderminster did manage to counter on a couple of occasions but great defending forced them into long range efforts which Grog dealt with easily. More great work down the right side from Formo and Shirk found ‘H’ in the area , she performed a superb turn and was upended yet again as she was about to shoot and this time the penalty was awarded. The keeper saved for the spot kick but ‘H’ reacted quickest and slotted home the rebound with her left foot.

The game ended with a score line of Kidderminster 0 v 3 Coventry and I think its fair to say that , that was a true reflection of the 80 minutes play.

A very very good performance from the girls today and a special mention for Kippa , Gobby and Lou , and their parents who all came along to support the team , thank you very much but I think the girls just love wearing the sub suits really…… Well done to Kidderminster and good luck for your remaining games..

Coventry City Ladies 1 - 0 Wolverhampton Wands
Cup 14/1/06

The Sky Blues kept their Cup dreams alive with a very well earned victory over the Wolves at Cov University.

Coventry went into the game with 3 regular defenders missing and Ziggy still sidelined. Following last weeks defeat at Birmingham the girls were in determined mood to get back on track and team spirit seemed good in the changing rooms. Smiffy was drafted into the back 4 with Gobby moving over to the right back slot for the day and Shirker started on the bench as Chan and Brad were given the chance to carry on where they had left off on weds nights training session. With a heavy pitch and only 12 players a gentle warm up was the order of the day.

City stared very well with all players showing an improved work rate and a determination not to be outplayed. Upfront Brad and Chan were closing down and pressing the ball which was pleasing to see. Down the right Formo seemed to be our outlet and indeed found space on 2 or 3 occasions but was unable to hit the target ( no probs m8 keep trying it will come, ya dad would have missed as well) At the back we looked comfortable and Gobby was finding time to use her undoubted skills to great effect. Midge and Lou were looking much sharper as they continue to recover from their enforced lay offs and Smiffy was looking very solid indeed. Behind them Katie was in very commanding form and was back to her very best both vocally and physically. Mozza and H were getting the upper hand as Coventry were creating most of the better football. However typical of Wolves they were totally committed and always looking to counterattack.

With 5 minutes of the half left Shirker came on for Chan to see if she could sneak a goal but it wasn’t to be.

The team talk was very positive as the girls had responded very well and the simple instruction was for more of the same.

Once again City looked the more likely to score and Mozza began to get a firm grip on midfield and we now started to find feet on a more regular basis. Shirk and Brad were working as a team and doing it very well. H made 2 or 3 good runs from midfield but just failed to find the target each time. From an H corner Shirker sent a bullet header but unfortunately directly at the keeper.

Brad went in late on the Wolves defender and received a yellow card but was quickly on the scene to apologise (well done). Moments later Brad did superbly to turn her marker and send a lovely through ball for Shirk to run onto and despite the keeper getting in the way the ball had enough momentum to cross the line for the important first goal.

Brad did well again to get on the end of a ball from lefty but tired legs meant that her shot lacked the power to get past the keeper who made several good stops for her team. Katie twice rushed out of her box to clear the danger and on the 2nd occasion took a knock on the ankle, but like Gobby and H she was ok after some treatment. Wolves continued to fight hard but Coventry had done enough to secure the win and now look forward to meeting Derby on Feb 11th.

Team spirit and everyone working hard as one unit had been the story of today’s performance and the girls were very worthy winners of a competitive game.

Birmingham City 4 - 2 Coventry City Ladies
League 7/1/06

The Sky Blues luck finally ran out at Moor Lane as they slipped to their first defeat of the season……

Blues started brightly , led by a very inspirational Marie Gauntlett who gave everyone a lesson in what competitive football is all about . Gauntlett opened the scoring when allowed to deliver a cross shot from the left which Katie was only able to help into the net.. She added Blues 2nd with an unstoppable shot from 25yds when again she was allowed too much space. Coventry hit back when great work from Formo down the right gave Shirker her customary poachers goal from 6 yds The sky blues might have equalised when Gobby headed just wide from a corner and shirker just put another close range effort wide

Blues went 3 v 1 up in the 2nd half when a quick thinking Gauntlett took a swift free kick ( the ball was moving but the sky blues were sleeping) and Keeley Lowe gave Katie no chance when unmarked. Mozza and H were covering acres of ground in the centre but Coventry weren’t able to keep the ball in the Blues half for long enough to take advantage of their hard work. H had 2 or 3 long range shots and a Mozza free kick went wide . However Smiffy fired home from close range to reduce the arrears and nearly brought the game level but her shot just dipped over. Blues sealed their win when Lowe showed great skill and pace before firing home past the diving Katie.

A disappointing result for the sky blues as loss of concentration contributed to at least 3 of Blues goals. Some good individual performances weren’t enough to prevent the defeat but despite this , we created plenty of openings and the wheels have by no means fallen off. With a tough game at home to Wolves in the cup next week team spirit should remain high as every team has their off days .

Coventry City Ladies 2 - 1 Shrewsbury Town
League 17/12/05

On a flat and spacious Coventry University pitch, the Sky Blues were challenged to pass the ball from keeper to strikers at every opportunity and try to play ‘FOOTBALL’...

Once again Ziggy and Midge were unavailable and Shirker had joined them on the injured list. Lou had passed her fitness test and was welcomed back onto the bench to join Rash . Coventry finally managed to start a game on the front foot and were soon a goal up when a neat passing move which began on the left saw the ball arrive at Formo’s feet, she cut inside and danced past 3 defenders before passing to ‘H’, who hit a first time shot low and inside the near post from the angle of the box. This caught Shrewsbury cold and the Sky Blues soon began to dominate the game.And were passing the ball very well at times.

City went further ahead when good work from Lefty put Chan free, down the left flank and her cross was very gleefully slotted home by Brad for her first of the season ( well done m8 ). Further chances were created but shots from Chan and ‘H’ both went narrowly wide and headers from corners were also off target.

At half time with the score 2-0 and a happy management simply asked the girls to carry on the good work but warned that Shrewsbury weren’t out of the game yet. Lou and Rash were introduced at centre back to replace Gobby and Wispa after 5 minutes as Shrewsbury decided it was time to get stuck in. Their half time team talk seemed to have woken them up and they were showing far more determination and looked dangerous. City did as they were told and carried on passing the ball but the passes were more hurried now as the visitors pressured the ball. A couple of dangerous corners were scrambled clear with one being tipped onto the bar and over by Katie.

Shrewsbury finally got the goal that they deserved when Wispa who had come back on for the injured Terri was very unlucky to see the ball deflect into the goal as she tried to clear the danger ( bad luck m8 but well done for being there in the first place). At the other end City had 1 or 2 chances of their own but couldn’t add to their tally and the game ended when another Shrews corner was scrambled to safety.

Well done to Shrewsbury who were a different team in the second half and on another day might have sneaked a point. The Sky Blues were praised for playing a much better passing game today and congratulated on reaching Xmas still undefeated in both league and cup .

Hopefully the squad will be back to full strength once all the turkey and mince pies have been eaten in time for a very tough match versus Blues on Jan 7th

Well done to all the players and the parents and a Merry Christmas to you all.

Wolverhampton Wands 2 - 3 Coventry City Ladies
League 10/12/05

The game began with the sky blues kicking up the slope and Wolves firing on all cylinders aiming to take advantage of the lie of the land. City as usual were slow into their stride (when will this end girls?) and Wolves were awarded a penalty when their striker was tripped in the box. Katie stood tall and tipped the spot kick over to safety. This gave the team a lift and soon City were creating chances of their own with both Formo and H having shots , Smiffy was getting some freedom down the left and had a couple of shots and Shirk had a close range shot very well saved by the keeper. Wolves were always dangerous and nearly took the lead when Katie wasn’t able to hold onto a shot but Kipper saved the day and cleared off the line (well done m8). Half time came (eventually after 51 minutes) and the scores remained blank.

With the slope now in their favour , it was time for City to start passing the ball and pressurising the Wolves defence. Captain Mozza opened the scoring when her first shot was blocked she was first to react and smashed the rebound into the net. Now City started to play some nice football and the 2nd goal was a real peach. From Katie the ball was moved to lefty , smiffy , Mozza , H and Formo on the other wing and her cross was side footed home by Shirker from 6 yards. Coventry added a third when both Mozza and Gobby challenged from a corner with Gobby claiming the last touch. City had the game won (or so they thought) but had to make changes as both Shirk and Formo picked up injuries and we began to lose our shape and discipline. Wolves were correctly awarded another penalty but this time Katie just failed to get her hands on the ball despite going the right way. A great run and cross from Brad was met by Mozzas head but just went over and with apparently only 2 minutes to go Wolves scored another from long range after a mix up in the middle of the park. Now we were hanging on and when the referee decided to carry on for another 8 minutes , things got a little heated and the girls began to panic. However the ref eventually decided it was time to end the game while there was some daylight left and Coventry had secured another 3 points. Well done to Wolves for not giving up and for their sporting behaviour at the end of the game.

The Sky blue girls were given a very mixed debrief but were praised for their 2nd half performance when they did play some very nice football. Still too slow out of the blocks in the first half and they must retain their discipline at all times no matter how severely they are tested. Thanks to Midge and Lou for travelling to support their team mates it was very much appreciated by everyone

Derby County 1 - 4 Coventry City Ladies
League 26/11/05

A hurried pre-match preparation and warm up led to a very sloppy first half performance from the sky blues. Even though we chose to kick up the slope against the biting wind and losing centre back Lou very early on there was very little to warm the travelling fans and management up as Derby were far more determined during the first 30 minutes. City went behind when the Rams striker was left unmarked in the box and she didn’t waste her opportunity. Coventry were trying to play pretty football in all the wrong areas at all the wrong times and were very very fortunate not to be 3 or 4 goals behind before finally getting forward as ‘H’ went on a superb run down the right, tricked her way past 3 defenders, slotted a pass into the box just as Mozza arrived and she finished in fine style with a first time left foot shot that gave the keeper no chance. Midge who was back from her injury and had come on to replace Lou was beginning to struggle with her ankle and Formo came on for Smiffy. City had the best of the remainder of the half and were happy to turn around at 1 v 1.

The half time chat was ‘TO THE POINT’ and the management awaited a response. Midge came off as Lefty went into defence and Smiffy was reinstated over on the left. Coventry were soon playing with more fire and took the lead from a corner as Shirker headed a beauty from ‘H’s delivery. Mozza decided that it was time to show us what she’s really made of & totally dominated the middle of the park for the next 40 minutes. City went 3 v 1 up when a low corner from ‘H’ (yer rite H like ya meant it) found its way to Smiffy as Brad flicked it to her (mmmmm) and Smiffy walloped it home from 15yds out.

Derby were offering no real threat now as Gobby took charge of our reshuffled back four and Grogg-ee was starting to freeze solid in goals. The lead was increased when Mozza converted again with her left and the game was now beyond Derby’s reach.

Kippa came on for Rash and very nearly added to the score when hitting a first time left footer from the D which sailed just wide. Derby had a chance late on but some dogged defending meant the striker had to hurry her shot and sent it over the bar leaving a final score of 1 v 4.

Coventry were a different team in the 2nd half and considering we were without Ziggy , lost Lou very early and were I v 0 behind I guess we were pleased overall. However the girls really do have to perform at that best from the first whistle in future if they are to continue to challenge for honours this season. .

Coventry City Ladies 1 - 0 Birmingham City
League 5/11/05

With both sides unbeaten this was likely to be a close and very competitive game ( as usual ) and the Coventry management asked for plenty of commitment and determination from their troops. However Birmingham showed far more urgency during the first half , winning the majority of the 50/50’s where it mattered most , which meant the back four of Rash , Gobby , Lou and Midge and keeper Grog-ee were being kept far to busy for most of the opening period.

Ziggy and Brad worked tirelessly upfront on the few scraps that they received and did well to force 1 or 2 shots but it was Blues who went closest to scoring when a header from the ever dangerous Marie Gauntlett was superbly saved by Grog as she dived to her left.

At half time the girls were left in little doubt that as a team they just weren’t performing as required and our superb defence cannot be expected to keep saving the day time and time again.

This seemed to have the desired effect as a very bright start to the 2nd half had Blues on the back foot for the first time in the match. With Smiffy on for H and Shirk replacing Brad ( who had been superb , keep it up m8) the Sky Blues were at last making some in roads, Smiffy in particular was having a stormer , winning her challenges and passing the ball sweetly. Indeed good work from both Smiffy and Mozza found Lefty in acres of space and the invitation wasn’t wasted as she thumped the ball home from the angle , to give Coventry the vital first goal .

Birmingham naturally responded in a positive manner and both sides were going in strong but fairly . Blues forced corners and had free kicks which were all dealt with fairly comfortably by Coventry. Midge unfortunately was on the end of a late challenge and after lengthy treatment had to be carried off. We hear that there is no break , and hopefully she will be on the mend as we type . Kippa had replaced Rash and Wispa came on for Midge.

Blues went close again when a shot from the left was tipped onto the outside of the post and away to safety and shortly after the Ref blew for full time..

This wasn’t a great performance by the Sky Blues with several players not as up for the job as they had thought , hopefully they will be better prepared for the 2nd cup match versus Derby next week , but a good result against a strong Blues team . Special mention for Smiffy who shows everyone, what being a great squad player is all about . Stay positive if u are a substitute and when u come on go and do ya job WELL DONE M8….

Stoke City 0 - 5 Coventry City Ladies
League 15/10/05

Following last weeks fantastic performance at Leicester City , the management Made it clear that , that performance would count for nothing if the girls didn’t Approach today's game with the same attitude and discipline as they had done 7 days ago.

The starting line up would be the same with the exception of Rash being give a start at left back as she had only been given 7 minutes at Leicester and had impressed at weds training ( there is a hint there somewhere girls)….

We were hoping for a more expansive passing game today but that hope vanished when we arrived at the very small pitches that would have been ideal for 9 aside under 12’s . However we were here to play and the game began. Coventry were kicking with the slope and soon had Stoke on the back foot. Chan linked up with Ziggy who found herself with only the keeper to beat but unfortunately fired the ball into her waiting arms. Stoke weren’t afraid to get stuck in to the challenge and were playing with great determination. The sky blues however were having most of the play and from a ‘H’ corner took the lead when LOU managed to stab the ball home from close range for her first goal since her arrival at the club. Sorry LOU but it wasn’t a 30 yd screamer like u described to me in the car park but well done m8.

Coventry extended their lead from another ‘H’ corner, this time CHAN arrived late to head home at the far post , giving CHAN her first of the season and reward for her improved form . Stoke didn’t give up and indeed sent several balls through into the danger area but found Coventry’s back four in solid form with Katie mopping up anything that they missed.

Half Time Stoke 0 Coventry 2.

Ziggy and Chan made way for Shirker and Brad and Gobby came off for Kippa Stoke tried to use the slope to their advantage but the final ball was just a little strong and the slope did the rest. Brad came very close to scoring when put through but unfortunately skewed her shot wide ( keep going m8 it will come). City went further ahead when good work from Brad and Shirk set up ‘H’ on the edge and her first time shot went wide of the keeper into the far corner. Five minutes later and ‘H’ went on a great run before being brought down inside the area , since Mozza was having a rest ‘H’ took the kick herself and easily beat the keeper to give City a 4 v 0 lead. Brad’s moment very nearly came when she shot with her right foot and forced the keeper to push the ball down into the path of the poacher supreme Shirker who gratefully finished from close range.

Katie was challenged very late having already claimed the ball and had to be replaced by Gobby who was told not to dirty the new gloves , but typical of her she did just the opposite as the rest of the game was played out. ‘H’ nearly claimed a hatrick but her super shot was well saved by the keeper and the Sky Blues finished as comfortable winners.. Stoke played with great determination and were unlucky not to sneak a goal for themselves Congratulations to them and Warren who was a fine host and well done to the officials who did a fine job with a smile on their faces.

Not the passing that we had hoped for but a good result and a very sound team defensive display once again WELL DONE .

Leicester City 1 - 2 Coventry City Ladies
Cup 8/10/05

Playing against Leicester City and in particular this Leicester City team Has always been the ultimate test not only for Coventry City but for every other Club throughout the Central Warwickshire district. Why ? Quite simply they are a superb team who just don’t get beaten but playing them is always a great thrill as everyone tries to aspire to how they play and what they have achieved over the last 4 or 5 years.

Drawn to play against them in phase 1 of this years C.O.E Open Cup , which is run on a league format with the winner of each round robin group competing in the Final in May , was to say the least a challenge…………

Joint managers Wilson and George made a couple of tactical changes for the game and impressed upon the girls that today was all about team work and total commitment especially defending as one unit. Of course the girls all said YER as they yawned and applied their make up for the big occasion. Substitutes would play a massive role today whether that was for 40 minutes or 10 minutes .

Coach Webby arrived in time for the warm up having missed the team talk ( just as well Nikki with all the bad language from the girls , would have made ya hair curl m8). A proper warm up it was too , Smiffy needed oxygen just doing the stretches , and eventually the game began.

With most of the lazy parents still trundling down to pitch side Keeper Katie G sent a long kick over halfway , Ziggy responded in a flash ran at the keeper and duly smashed the ball over her head and into the net WOW what a start , not bad from a player who says she aint a striker , did it last week aswell so you can carry on not being a striker for the rest of the season please Zig.

Needless to say the goal was a blow to Leicester and no amount of whistling from the Cov fans would persuade the Ref to blow for full time after 2 minutes , some refs cant be bought at any price. Leicester immediately launched a wave of attacks at the City goal but a quite magnificent TEAM defence from all 11 girls limited the Foxes to only one or two half chances. The back 4 of Wispa, Gobby Lou and Midge were putting in tackles and winning headers and enjoying it and with mouthy George in goals We were looking solid. In midfield Captain Mozza was doing a Mozza and putting it in where it hurts , whilst wide players H and Smiffy were working their very smelly socks off and giving as good as they were getting, which left Formo with the easy job of stopping Remi Allen from getting a kick and she was doing ok I reckon. Upfront Chan was having her best game of the season and using a bit of her muscle as well and Ziggy was covering every blade of grass , hassling and pressing just about every Leicester player who touched the ball The sky blues soaked up the pressure and had the occasional foray up field but the rest of the half was scoreless and Coventry went in with that precious goal lead. At half time Shirker came on for Chan and Smiffy went into her oxygen tent to be replaced by Lefty as H moved over to the right. Whilst we had defended brilliantly we had tended to panic when in possession And the management challenged the girls to have faith in their own passing game whenever possible ….

As predicted Leicester came out all guns blazing but once again the defending all over the pitch was superb and gradually Coventry managed to get their foot on the ball and link up with each other without finding a telling end product.

Leicester managed to force a fine save from Katie as she dived to her left and another was just tipped over the bar. Corners were being won by the home team now and indeed the equaliser came from a corner as the incoming striker met the ball well and managed to deflect it through bodies and into the net.

Now we would see what this Sky Blue team were made of… We need not have worried as the girls upped the tempo and H was creating space for herself down the right and sent in a lovely cross shot which looped over the keeper and looked for all the world a goal , however the ball hung in the air for too long and landed on top of the net rather than in it.

Moments later a superb piece of skill from Shirker saw her trick her way passed 2 Leicester players in the box and as she was about to pull the trigger she was clipped from behind and the on the spot referee awarded the penalty.

Who would fancy the kick ? H walked over , Shirker looked keen , but Captain Mozza pulled rank , placed the ball on the spot , walked up and placed the ball in the back of the net PHEW.

Leicester would surely pour forward again and did but the city defence was getting even better Lou Whitehouse was heading the ball 40 metres and looking very classy indeed. Things took a turn for the worse when Formo took a blow to the head and had to come off the pitch for treatment , Brad went on upfront, Ziggy took over the job on Remi , oh bless u Ziggy, no not her , number 10 , no not 7 , 10 yes her , errrrrr u ok to go back on formo ‘yes’ On you go then and Ziggy came off for a well earned rest . Kippa came on for Midge and Wispa made way for Rash . With Formo back on the case Remi wasn’t able to get a last gasp equaliser this time and the Coventry girls had done the impossible and beaten the mighty Leicester…..

Words cant describe the feeling of joy felt by everyone connected with the team but the girls rolling on the floor probably says it all and that was just the mums ! Hours of team defending at training had paid off so a big thanks to Webby and Weavo for that…. Thanks to Leicester for a great game and thanks to my BRO cus I know u was there to see it …

Coventry City Ladies 2 - 1 Aston Villa
League 1/10/05

Coventry entertained Aston Villa on the wonderfully prepared playing surface at Coventry University and started off very brightly and were playing some very nice football indeed. Villa were competing well but the sky blues were linking up from back to front with some neat interchanges of play.

With Mozza and H winning the lions share of the midfield exchanges wide players Formo and lefty were able to make forward runs down the flanks , however Villa’s defence were playing really well in particular Claire Lloyd who was showing great pace and determination to keep the ever dangerous Formo , from getting in any crosses ( well done to you Claire). Ziggy was being her usual industrious self upfront and was also keeping things a little more simple today. When Formo did finally manage to beat her marker and provide a cross , the ball eventually fell to Ziggy who decided not to shoot with her left and the moment was gone (tut tut Zig see me later). City were dominating the game and 3 or 4 well delivered corners from ‘H’ only just missed being converted by Mozza ‘s head , which clearly isn’t as big as we thought. The sky blues deservedly took the lead when Ziggy turned well and found Shirker , being unmarked over on the right hand side , with plenty of time Shirker calmly slotted past the advancing keeper to give City the half time lead.

Brad had replaced the injured Lefty towards the end of the first half and Kippa came on for Rash at right back. Villa appeared to be a little more fired up at the start of the second half and keeper Katie was soon having a few more balls to deal with , however from a scrappy piece of Coventry play the ball managed to find its way back up the Villa end and Ziggy showed great awareness , pace and determination to get to the ball first before smashing the ball home from just inside the box . Shirk made way for Chan , Midge for Wispa and Smiffy came on for ‘H’ as City made sure that all the subs were given plenty of time on the pitch. To Villa’s great credit they continued to press at every opportunity but centre backs Gobby and Lou were in outstanding form and Katie was showing a very solid pair of gloves behind them.

Villa however got back into the game when a scrappy passage of playing ended with Natasha Merritt hitting her shot first time from at least 35 yards and the ball sailed over everyone and into the net. A good strike from Natasha but a little disappointing from a City point of view.

Coventry had further half chances from Ziggy and H who had returned in place of Brad but it was Villa who very nearly bagged a point , when from a goal mouth scramble the ball looked destined for the far corner of the goal until Katie pulled off a tremendous diving one handed save to keep the ball out and the danger was cleared. Just goes to prove that all those hours of throwing her around the living room as a baby have paid off, well done K8. The rest of the game passed without any further scares for either side and ended in a well deserved victory for the Sky Blues Well Done to the Villa girls for a very spirited second half performance , the young referee who allowed the game to flow whenever possible and the grounds man for a superb pitch……

Coventry City Ladies 1 - 1 Kidderminster Harriers
League 17/9/05

After 3 wins in preseason friendlies the u16’s hoped to start their league campaign with another victory at home to our visitors from Kidderminster

Indeed the Sky Blues started the game very brightly and were soon passing the ball nicely and finding wingers brad and Formo on a regular basis. Kidderminster were very competitive in the tackle, however the flow of the game was interrupted frequently and needlessly for some rather petty decisions both ways. . city were pressing forward relentlessly and the goal eventually came when Shirker got on the end of a ball from Chan before firing high into the top corner of the net from an acute angle, city had chances to increase their lead on several occasions but were unable to convert any of them and for all their good play went in at half time only 1 goal to the good

Having been largely outplayed for the first 40 minutes Kidderminster upped their work rate in the 2nd half and for some reason the sky blues decided that they didn’t need to work as hard and the play became very sloppy. Neither goalie was threatened to any great extent but when ‘kiddies’ Mccloughlin went on a run 4 city players were left trailing behind her and she finished in style leaving keeper George with no chance. it was no more than Kidderminster deserved and despite a good last 10 minutes Coventry never got in a serious blow at restoring their lead .

Coventry should have had the game won in the first half and will need to play for the full 80 minutes in future, well done to Kidderminster who battled very well and went home with a well earned point.