Good performance but lacks finish

Kettering Ladies XI played their last friendly match against Cambridge Ladies 3rd team this weekend and under the guidance of a new coach played well despite losing. Kettering were by far the dominant team throughout the game and stuck to their game plan confidently.
The game started with Kettering gaining possession and moving the ball into attack quickly. The new formation seemed to be working and they were unfortunate to not go ahead from a penetrating run into the circle by Megan Forader in the first few minutes. Cambridge, however, were also a well-organised team and the turn over rate in the middle of the pitch was extremely high for both sides. With it being 0-0 at half time and Kettering feeling like they were on top, it would turn in their favour score wise.

The second half started much the same as the first with player of the match Bethany Lewis working tirelessly from the back to move the ball into attack when Cambridge broke through. It was, however, the away side that took the lead as a loose pass caught Kettering on a counter attack. The goal was swiftly followed by a second from Cambridge as a bouncing ball from an initial short corner strike was struck whilst airborne directly into the net.

Kettering scored from their own short corner routine straight off the training ground and although it didn't quite go to plan Jess Austin neatly placed the ball into the near post just out of the diving keepers reach.

Kettering could have gained a draw as the game was coming to a close as they pressed hard in the final 10 minutes but a few crosses didn't quite find someone in front of the goal and the final ball just wasn't quite there.

Despite the loss Kettering left the pitch feeling optimistic and ready to work on key areas at training ready for their first league game next Saturday away to Worcester.