On a hot spring afternoon at Worth School, Lewes Nala's U14s faced Hawks in an intense match, playing 15-minute quarters to accommodate much-needed drink breaks.

First Quarter:

Hawks started strongly, but their attacks were halted by solid defensive work from Hannah in centre defence, who found Alicia on the right to push play back into Hawks’ half. A breakaway led to Lewes's first short corner, injected by Phiala, but no conversion. Hawks pressed down their right side, but Emily read the play well and intercepted. Bea put in strong defensive work in midfield while Esme pushed forward to attack. Despite some great breaks from the Hawks, Hazel was solid in defence, ensuring Miya had little to do in goal. However, with just 30 seconds left in the quarter, the Hawks managed to find the net, taking a 1-0 lead.

Second Quarter:

Determined to fight back, Lewes came out strong with Alicia, Emilia, Soraya, Jasmine, and Eleanor working to create space and move the ball effectively. Despite their hunger to equalise, the Hawks capitalised on a lucky opportunity at 23 minutes, making it 2-0. However, Lewes responded swiftly, as Alicia found the net just two minutes later, following brilliant link-up play from midfield and precise passing in triangles. Hawks continued to press, but Miya produced an outstanding save with her right leg pad to deny them an aerial goal. At halftime, the score stood at 2-1 in favour of the Hawks.

Third Quarter:

A motivating halftime talk from captain Hannah focused on better communication, and Lewes started the third quarter with renewed energy. Emilia controlled the midfield well, linking up with Bea, Alicia, Esme, and Phiala to attack. Despite five shots on goal, Lewes couldn't find a way past the Hawks' keeper. The pressure paid off at 40 minutes when Phiala slotted home an equaliser from a short corner. Just two minutes later, Alicia made a brilliant run, setting up Eleanor to score and give Lewes a 3-2 lead. However, as the heat took its toll, the Hawks capitalised with two quick goals at the end of the quarter, edging ahead 4-3.

Final Quarter:

Lewes pushed forward in search of another equaliser, creating some lovely attacking plays. However, at 50 minutes, the Hawks struck twice in quick succession to extend their lead to 6-3. Fatigue was setting in, but Lewes kept fighting. With seven minutes to play, Bea returned to centre forward and netted an excellent goal, assisted by Alicia, making it 6-4. Despite a valiant effort, the score remained unchanged at the final whistle.

Final Score: Hawks 6-4 Lewes Nala's U14s

Match Highlights:

Players of the Match (chosen by Hawks): Alicia & Hannah

Manager's Player of the Match: Alicia

Standout performances: Hannah’s defensive strength, Miya’s crucial save, Bea’s midfield resilience, and Alicia’s relentless attacking play.

A well-matched contest, with Lewes showing great teamwork and determination, but the heat played a factor in the closing stages. A fantastic effort from the team!