REPORT BY: JODIE ROCKETT
THIS past Saturday saw Otliensians triumph with a commanding 5-0 victory over Wakefield IV, leaving no doubt about their dominance so far this season.
The match kicked off with both sides testing each other in a tense, evenly balanced opening. However, it was Otliensians' composed midfield—anchored by the dynamic core of Fran Nichol, Eve Boardman, Bridie Wallis and Julia Ratahi. Jodie Rockett and Anna Greenhill pushed from the back line raising the tempo.
With slick passing and relentless pressure, it wasn't long before Eve Boardman unleashed a superb strike to break the deadlock.
Once Otliensians found their rhythm, there was no stopping them. Hannah Holmes swiftly capitalized with a clinical finish, not long followed by a superb lofted ball into the top corner by Ganni Braisby-Taylor, meaning the scoreline suddenly read 3-0 at halftime.
Wakefield came out fighting after the break, but Otliensians, with debutants Katie Lambert and Sophie Aldred shining in defence, weren’t about to let them claw their way back. With Otliensians' experience holding strong, the younger Wakefield players began to tire, and the cracks in their defence started to widen.
A number of opportunities narrowly missed the back of the net by both Claire Brooke & Tori Doherty. However it was
Eve Boardman who once again stepped up, adding a fourth goal after a perfectly executed short corner. As if to seal the deal, Fran Nichol then found the back of the net, putting the final nail in the coffin and ensuring Otliensians marched to an emphatic 5-0 victory.
Great performance from all players, a blend of experience and tactical brilliance see the team sit firmly at the top of the league.
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