AFC Unity lost to Beighton Magpies by a seven-goal margin for the second time this season.
“They haven’t lost a game this season; they smash almost everyone in this division,” shrugged AFC Unity manager Jay Baker. “It is what it is, and it’s important we don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.”
“Credit to Beighton for playing great attacking football, creating so many chances and taking them – it definitely made this hard to defend against,” admitted coach Olivia Murray. “Nonetheless, we battled hard to the core and never stopped, and this showed when we got one back. We also played some quality passing football at times and showed how much we have developed and come on since our first meeting.”
“My primary focus, as mentioned before in recent weeks, is the welfare of my players, and the ethos of our club,” reiterated Baker. “The top spot has never been in doubt; it’s up to us other six to battle over the spoils, which is where it gets interesting. We went to kick the ball around a bit and stick to our principles, being disciplined with our heads held high, and it’d never be any different.”
Co-founder and captain Jane Watkinson agreed: “The team played with real passion, solidarity and respect, and we kept going and importantly had a smile on our faces, enjoying playing as a team,” she said. “Lots of positives from the game; everyone should be really proud of themselves.”
Recent signing Chloe Rodgers added: “Unity displayed the true meaning of team spirit; despite an unreflective score line the team battled together and played some brilliant passing football. I think with some good tactics, hard work and belief in our own strengths we can certainly give them a game at their place next week!”
“Games like these are useful as they give us an opportunity to try out different things,” said Baker. “I mean what have you got to lose?”
AFC Unity face the Magpies again, at Beighton, next week.
Lucy Strutt scored for AFC Unity.