Monday 30 June 2025

After yesterday’s defeat, the girls knew that today was crucial. If they wanted to stay in the tournament, they needed to get points on the board.

A good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast had them refreshed and ready. Spirits were high, and there was a quiet determination in the group as they arrived at the venue.

This time they faced Italian opposition for the first time in the form of Midland, a team that had drawn their opening game. It was another huge court, in a new venue, but the same intense heat hung in the air. Conditions were tough, but the girls were focused.

They knew what was at stake.

First Half

Bootham started strongly, taking the initiative and causing Midland plenty of problems with confident passing and sharp movement. The team looked composed and created early chances that unsettled their Italian opponents.

Midland fought back, however, and nearly took the lead when a powerful long-range shot rattled the crossbar. Against the run of play, Midland managed to score first, putting Bootham on the back foot.

But Bootham responded quickly. A perfectly timed through ball from Abbie found Molly in the D. She turned swiftly and calmly slotted the ball under the goalkeeper to level the score.

Half Time: Bootham 1 – 1 Midland

Second Half

Soon after the break, Bootham came close to scoring when Heather’s pass found Eleanor in front, but her first-time shot went just wide. Bootham was firmly in control and took the lead when Lacey’s long pass found Abbie on the touchline, and she hammered the ball into the goalkeeper’s near post.

Almost immediately, Midland responded. A long-range shot was saved by Heidi, but the rebound was fired home to level the score once again.

Full Time: Bootham 2 – 2 Midland

And the highlights from the organisers:

Post-Match Reflections

After the final whistle, Coach Chris spoke about the match:
‘We asked for a response from the girls after yesterday’s game and we certainly got one. They were unlucky not to come away with the win, especially after leading twice. They created many good opportunities but just couldn’t find the decisive goal their play deserved. That said, we have goals and points on the board, and with one game to go, the girls still have a great chance of progressing in the tournament.

Huge thank you to the sportsmanship of the Midland team, the fantastic sing-off on the coach coming back to the hotels!’

Images from day 2 – all curtsy of Suzy Collins: