Ops had an early start with a 10:30am in south London, making their way up to Bexleyheath and Belvedere for what they thought would be the match to improve their goal average. However, it was not to be. Instead, Ops were met with a 0-1 start within the first few minutes, Bexleyheath and Belvedere taking command of the game early with a converted corner.
Ops held their heads high and knew it was time to take things seriously. Impressive movement up front from Phoebe Everett-Norman, Sophie Atwell and Nat Harvey saw the Ops create numerous chances. A special mention to Katie Janman who showed versatility as she took up the challenge of helping on the forward line, winning a short corner. A corner strike from Captain Polly Ritchie went wide, leaving the Ops 0-1. Despite this, Ops continued to press forward and move the ball well from defence through the midfield, and upfront.
Throughout most of the game Ops had most of the play. Solid performances in defence from Vicki Baxter, Sharon Harding and Emma Line saw Ops retain possession and easily move the ball from defence to midfield. Player of the match Charlotte Rawlins linked well with midfielder, and newcomer, Isobel Timmins on the right. Timmins showed maturity and endurance in the midfield, finding Everett-Norman on several occasions, enabling Everett-Norman to plough into the circle and create goal scoring opportunities.
On the left, Line combined well with midfielders Carris Clarke, who then linked well with Atwell and Harvey to create multiple opportunities to score. Alas, the opportunities could not be converted, with the Bexleyheath keeper making some good saves.
As time went on Ops continued to press the opposition defence. It was Everett-Norman who managed to slip one past the keeper, coming from a scramble in the circle from Harvey and Atwell. With not long to go Ops had equalised, thankfully. Ops continued to press and create opportunities but seemed to fall short of getting the pill over the line.
It was a tough day at the office and Ops were disappointed to come away with a draw. However, it was a good lesson and solidified the importance of converting opportunities when created.
Ops are looking forward to next week’s match up against Gore Court.