Wereys clinch place in West O40s final
3 March 2024: Wereys travelled to Newent with a small squad for the West O40s semi-final tie.
Newent started strongly and, despite some good forward runs by Wereys, were the better side in the first half. Wereys were slow to defend short corner rebounds and went 0-2 down, which was followed by an open play shot and rebound to go 0-3. But, the team continued to pass well and Buffy found herself one-on-one with their GK and, with a skilful lift, Wereys clawed one back going into half time 1-3 down.
After a couple of positional changes Wereys started the second half well but conceded a fourth goal. So, enjoying a 4-1 lead, the home side seemed to underestimate the strength and resilience of Wereys who then totally dominated the second half.
Stacey finished off a flowing move to make it 2-4, then Haysie lifted a short corner top left to make it 3-4 and finally Abi finished off another forging attack to level the score 4-4. Jan made a crucial save at the end of the game to keep Wereys in the game.
After a debate over flicks v shuffles Wereys conceded to the shuffle option. Jan had never taken part in a shuffle competition so odds were stacked against The Wereys but, after the first round of five shuffles, the score was level at 3-3. For the second time in two weeks, the competition went to sudden death. Jay went first and scored, Newent replied, Haysie stepped up to convert her shuffle and then GK Jan held up the next Newent player – who ran out of time.
Result – the Wereys win!
An amazing performance by the team meaning that they’re through to the West O40s final on 28 April in Taunton. Opposition to be confirmed.
Cath
