Not the 3 points but the 300 National League games.

Ipswich Ladies 1s played East London under the lights at the Lee Valley Centre.
Ipswich came under the pump quickly with their opponents’ high pressure on the ball and quick turnovers from Ipswich errors. After a nervy 5 minutes, Ipswich regathered themselves to work into the oppositions 23. A chance was created with Taylor Ball winning a short corner from a great through ball passed by Georgia Harold. Unfortunately the harsh blow of the whistle denied Captain Lucy Dunnett’s goal…

Ipswich had to work hard to brush off the frustration and snap back into it. A few long passes from East London broke Ipswich’s defence leading to a corner that hit the backboard. 1-0 down. Another goal from another short corner came in quick succession.

The second quarter brought Ipswich glimmers of hope with forward play and an upgraded circle entry. Again, no outcome. East London go 3-0 up at half time. Ipswich made some strategic changes to the lines and knew it was going to take some strength to make this happen.

The changes that Ipswich made worked into their hands and gave them more success up the lines with Charlotte Satchwell and POTM, Kat Blake distributing well from the defensive line. With forwards leading hard and being rewarded to get Ipswich higher up the pitch, sadly no outcome came from the circle entries.

The game ended 3-0, what Ipswich should be proud was how hard they worked to deny East London on another goal with GK Ali Barham organising and saving hits. This weekend showed the Ladies 1s embracing change and adapting to it. They found another level in the second half… long may that continue.

It wouldn’t be a Ladies 1s match report without a stat. And this stat is the most fantastic of all… Emma Rix has achieved an impressive milestone. Yesterday, she played in her 300th National League game. Emma is such a pivotal piece of the teams puzzle and the experience she brings is undeniable! We wish Emma continues her journey and who knows what milestone will be next…

Next week the Ladies 1 face the unknown team of Teddington (A), another joyous trip inside the M25! Let’s see what next week brings to the table.