Second half blitz secures 3 points

Williams hits a brace

Ipswich showed how much they have grown as a team by dispatching a good Sevenoaks side 4-0; a clinical second half burst of goals sealing a fine win. The win was even more impressive given that Ipswich coach Mariette Rix was not able to attend the match as she had work commitments at Woodbridge School. Rix however had a great replacement, in the guise of last season’s co-captain Charlie Anderson and her handling of the team was crucial in Ipswich’s win.
The match started superbly for the away team as they took the lead within 5 minutes; a short corner converted by an inspired Chloe Williams, her first of two goals.
Despite the setback the home team remained a threat and put the Ipswich defence under pressure but some great composure and tackling by Ellie Scott, Kristine Ayling & Kat Blake ensured the threat was neutralised. The few times Sevenoaks did manage a clear sight of the Ipswich goal, GK Ali Barham was in her usual top form to deny them.
Half time saw the game finely balanced but Anderson pointed out a few areas that she felt Ipswich could exploit the home side and they started the second half ready to do just that.
Within 10 minutes Ipswich had extended their lead, a great ball from Ayling found Micha Knowles in the circle and her turn and shot of the bouncing ball was straight from the training ground. Ipswich were now flying and mintues later scored their 3rd. This time it was player of the match Sophie Sexton with a sublime reverse stick shot from a tight angle, after a great ball through from Williams.
Sexton was now running riot down the left hand side of the pitch and it looked only a matter of time before the away side scored a 4th goal. Sure enough Williams was on hand to score her second of the game, after a good through ball left her 1 on 1 with the GK and she made the difficult finish look easy.
With 15 minutes still to play Sevenoaks could have been forgiven for giving up but the home side worked hard and won a run of PC’s. The Ipswich defence were not in the mood for giving up their clean sheet though and saw off the danger.
The final whistle saw a very happy Ipswich fully aware that this performance without Rix on the sidelines was pretty special. With the news that the chasing teams had also dropped points Ipswich are now 4 points clear at the top of the league, having played one more match.
The final game before the Christmas break is another tricky away game against Canterbury 2’s and Ipswich will be working hard this week to prepare them for another crucial match.