With an extreme weather warning in place, we all knew that this was going to be a punishing start to our pre-season program. Plenty of Factor 50 was dished out and Ani came prepared with reusable ice-packs to cool us down between quarters.
Coach, Bailey, set out the objectives and used the match to try players out in different positions- well done to Jubb who moved up into midfield and Millie who took on the role of 'spare man'. Both proved their versatility and looked comfortable on the ball.
Ani also stepped up to fill in for our keepers, making some vital saves and ensuring that Moss were unable to put the ball in the back of the net.
Despite the heat, both teams got stuck in and battled hard. Greys had a number of near misses before a great pass into the D from Spraggs allowed Cate to take the ball around the keeper and put a cheeky reverse flick beyond the defender on the line.
There was brilliant passing around the back, allowing the half backs to make breaks and put some excellent balls up the lines for the midfield and forwards to run onto. Libby did a brilliant job of picking up the ball and running it through the midfield, accompanied by shouts from Bailey to 'gas it!' (no easy job in 32 degree heat!). Following one of these runs, Libby got the ball into the D and passed the ball onto Spraggs for the shot. Unfortunately, the keeper managed to get in the way and the ball was cleared out by a defender, only to land on Cate's stick, resulting in a second goal for Greys.
A third goal looked to be on the cards when Moreton smashed a PC towards the goal, with Spraggs almost managed to sweep it behind the keeper. The ball came out again and a second shot was saved before Moreton hit the crossbar.
Due to the extreme heat, Moss Park decided to cut down the final quarter to 10 minutes. In the final minutes of the match, Greys were awarded a PC. The ball was dragged out to Moreton and a powerful strike was smashed towards the goal. Despite a scramble in the D, Moss Park's defence were able to clear the ball out and the final whistle went. Both teams were quick to get off the pitch to rehydrate and try to cool down! Thanks to Moss Park for supplying oranges at the end of the match, they were a very welcome refreshment!
Squad
Captain: Jubb
Ani, Lizzie, Millie F, Martha, Anna, Pearson, Libby, Moreton, Alanna, Kat W, Spraggs, Cate
and a big welcome to our newest members, making their debut for the club: Mille, Lexie, Jess P and Jourdan.