The gritty and glorious 3s were out again on Saturday against Brighton 6s despite the torrential rain that greeted us, the sun soon shone through so we could play. We tried a new structure of 3-4-3, which understandably took a while to adjust, however the team’s adaptability and grit shown through. Brighton started strong but Lewes fought on and with the help of Gubs and Tommo coaching from the sidelines (and the glorious support of Clod), we started to get some action in the D and have some bursts of broader play. The rest of the first half was at time congested and was a tiring game with lots of quick turn overs from one side of the pitch to the other. At half time, with the score 0-0 the 3s regrouped, breathed and came back fighting even harder remembering to use the width of the pitch and our structure to create space and options. The fight continued and as a result of some brilliant passing between Lizzie and Sara, Jess managed to find the back of the net early in the second half. Jess deservingly earned another nomination for players’ player for her determination and skill throughout the game. Despite this goal, Brighton soon managed to pass Freya, who had a busy game with saves that made me scream with pride and awe in equal measure, earning players’ player nominations as well. Emily Pile was a rock in defence as she demonstrated again and again her strength and composure. Brighton’s goal didn’t reduce Lewes’ grit, only encouraging the determination for a goal to regain our lead. Despite better structure and width from the 3s, Brighton managed to find the net again with 5 minutes to spare. Undeterred, the 3s still fought on with the silky skilled Sara Riley dribbling into the D repeatedly but ultimately the 3s were unable to find the back of the net again. Players’ player deservingly went to Liv Wilson for the second week running for her silky skills, unwavering grit, passing and pressure on the ball.

Many of the 3s were deeply frustrated and disappointed with the final score, but I am still proud of EVERY SINGLE PLAYER. It wasn’t the score we wanted or deserved, but we showed our grit is second to know, and with time, and more work on our structure the gaols will come. Onwards and upwards ladies, we’ve got this and Kate and I still have nothing but faith in you ALL.