13th Sept - A 10 man battle in week 2 of the season

The second week to the new season and Batley found themselves fighting for a team. It was a team of 10 that turned out against Selby with two midfielders in defence. Our new players were out in force again and a special mention to Rachel who drove up from Nottingham to help us out in goal.

As the game began Batley were strong with the forwards making some great runs upfront and putting pressure on the Selby defence. It wasn't long before Batley were awarded the first short corner of the match. Kim's shot went just wide of the mark, it was enough though, to give the team heart. Batley were looking strong even with a player down.

Some shambolic early marking left some openings that Selby were quick to try to take advantage of, Linda and her defence were able to deal with the attacks but it became clear that there were some problems when Selby had a chance to break.

Batley were awarded a further 2 short corners finally capitalising on the third with a GOAL from Jodi putting Batley 1-0 up going in to half time.

With a new plan for marking and hit outs for the second half it was a confident 10 player Batley team that returned to the pitch for the second half. Some great passing and moving kept pressure on Selby who were struggling to find space through the middle to attack Batley.

In a great move down the left Jo took the ball round Selby defence and crossed in from the right to set up Teresa's GOAL putting Batley 2-0 up.

Tired legs towards the end of the half allowed batley to concede their first short corner of the game but they were unable to benefit from it. There were some frustrations for both teams as tiredness took over.

As the final whistle blew a triumphant Batley walked from the pitch. A fantastic performance in difficult circumstances and a great team performance!

Man of the match was tied between Kim and Linda, both definitely worthy of the title!

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