A draw keeps Batley in the top half of the table

Following our unbeaten run, we fielded a team of 12 for our match against Brigg. The Brigg ladies had some traffic trouble getting to the pitch, so the match was a bit late starting.

Both teams were keen to make a good start and it was clear from the beginning that this was going to be an end to end game. Batley conceded the first short corner, but managed to clear it to keep out of danger early on.

The game was very one sided, Brigg always attacking down their right, making marking and defending difficult for the players on the left of the pitch, while the left was swamped with players and play, the right was left open for Batley attacks. Initially Batley struggled to make the most of this space. Brigg were defending all free hits closing and really circling the ball.

After a scramble and some confusion in the Brigg D, Batley were awarded a penalty flick. Janna confidently stepped up to take it resulting in a GOAL! Batley went in to half time 1-0 up.

It was clear that this would be a difficult second half. Brigg were fit and we knew we were likely to tire late on. It was important that we went out strong and defended our lead whilst trying to increase it.

Unfortunately, it was Brigg who capitalised early on in the second half from a short corner. Making the score level and really putting the pressure on both teams. Brigg put lots of pressure on Batley in the second half, but the Batley defence dealt with it well! Batley we’re making better use of the space on the pitch by the end of the match, but didn’t manage to score again.

The final score was 1-1, Batley continue their unbeaten run and meet Huddersfield away next week.

Man of the Match was Jo for her excellent performance on left wing.

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