Sports News
Maidstone U16 Girls Final
The Lenham School 1 - The Malling School 0
TLS Under 16 Girls were crowned champions of Maidstone after an epic battle unfolded at The Gallagher Stadium, home of Maidstone United. It was evident from the start that the girls were focused and motivated, as Mia gave her final speech to the team in the huddle. TLS made an 'electric' start, Erin racing clear from Crystal's pass to give TLS an early lead. From this point on Maidstone became a battleground as two strong schools went toe to toe with each other for the next 75 minutes.
Moments after the goal Amber made a great save to keep us in front. Evie, who worked tirelessly up front, was causing all sorts of problems for the defence and nearly made it 2-0. Evie's shot was well saved, and we were unable to follow up on the rebound.
During the second half, The Malling School started to take control of the game, but the TLS defence was outstanding. Mia and Louise in the middle made several tackles and blocks to keep the game at 1-0. They both had excellent games and made life extremely difficult for Malling to get through on goal. Iris and Isla both playing at fullback showed excellent determination by keeping the Malling wingers quiet. Malling, who are usually full of goals, could not break through and with Amber being solid in goal they were not able to score.
Maddie, Holly and Savanna were all over the pitch putting in blocks and tackles to preserve our lead. The three girls in the middle tracked their runners well and showed incredible discipline to hold their shape in such a difficult game. When Malling did create a chance, there was always a Lenham player there to block it, and this continued throughout the game. Crysal came into central midfield for the last 15 minutes and carried on the fighting spirit within the team.
Into the final 10 minutes, and team coach Mr. Groom began to feel nervous. However, the team held their nerve and started to create more chances in the final stages of the game. Jamie who did not stop running throughout the game had a great chance that was blocked off the line, Erin hit the post and Maddie had a shot which went narrowly wide.
The final few anxious seconds ticked away and as the final whistle blew the celebrations begun. It was amazing to see the spirit between the girls and how much it meant to them. Captain Mia lifted the cup, and Maddie was the player of the match. Every single TLS player was outstanding.
Well done to all the team, a great season and incredible way to finish.
