After a fantastic season where Chinnor Ladies dominated the Thames Valley Counties Women’s Football League in Division 2 North from the start, they faced Hazlemere in their penultimate game. All that Chinnor needed was a draw from the game to be crowned league winners. Instead they played a fantastic game working as a team from the start to come in with a 4-1 victory. A solid backline along with opportunities created by the midfield players all combined to secure the win.
Hazlemere started the game strong with a few attempts on goal in the first 10 minutes but these were unable to get past Chinnor’s solid defence consisting of Caroline Wales, Katie Wales, Daisy Rennison and Amy Saunders, and Chinnor’s goal keeper, Rachael Snelling. Once Chinnor settled into the game they increased their effort levels and played well as a team to create excellent shooting opportunities. Centre midfield players, Harriot Davis and Natalie Eustace, continued to work well as a pair combining good play with Jennifer Dyer and Sian Pill who started on the wings. With substitutes, Natalie Phillips (left midfield) and Louise hope (Right back) coming on during the first half Chinnor adapted well and continued to show their strength over Hazlemere. The score at half time was 3-1 with two great goals from Hayley Cruickshanks and one from Katie Thorp. Unfortunately one quick break away from the opposition lead to Chinnor conceding a goal. Sue Owen came on to play striker shortly after half time and quickly put pressure on Hazlemere’s defence. Despite Hazlemere’s efforts they were unable to put any more goals past Chinnor who were quick to cut out their passes. Another brilliant goal from Katie Throrp saw Chinnor secure the win with the final score finishing 4-1.
Chinnor Ladies started the season struggling for players but despite this they rallied on and with dedication from all the players along with support from Katie Wales (Team Coach) and Gemma Rockingham (Team Manager), they grew from strength to strength with player numbers increasing over the season due to the team’s success and team spirit.
The team is very much look forward to being promoted next season to Division 1. Any players interested in playing please contact Gemma Rockingham at gemmarockingham@outlook.com.
The winning squad consisted of: Charlotte Cairns, Emma Cairns, Kazia Coleman, Hayley Cruickshanks, Harriot Davis, Jennifer Dyer, Natalie Eustace (Captain), Louise Hope, Suzanne Owen, Sian Pill, Natalie Phillips, Daisy Rennison, Amy Saunders, Emily Shriver, Racheal Snelling, Katie Thorp, Caroline Wales, and Katie Wales.