Match reports 2007 / 08

26th April 2008
BELLES DOUBLE BLOW
Braytons bubble burst this week with two cup final defeats at the hands of York City and Malet Lambert.
The Belles U10s came within a whisker of a shock result taking their under 10 ERGFL cup final into extra time. It took a late winner from Malet Lambert to stop the Belles in their stride. The Belles U14 team came up against a strong York City team who ran out 3 - 0 winners, a score which flattered City.
Belles U14 v York City 0 - 3
Brayton stormed into this fixture against hot favourites York City, hassling and fighting for every ball. Captain Megan Birch led by example with a solid defensive performance along side Eve Dawson and Haylam Tang. However it was York who scored first quickly breaking from a Brayton corner and with just two swift passes and a bullet of a shot pasted the oncoming keeper, Antonia Miles, the ball hit the back of Brayton net. The Belles pushed for an equaliser with Josie Hewson and Kate Wileman both coming close.
The second half saw Brayton battling forward Kate Merry, Danielle Brown and Megan Hill all contributing well. York City's No8 then made several twisting runs down the wing causing havoc in the Belles defence creating two late goals to give City a 3 - 0 win. Player of the match Kate Wileman.
ERGFL U10 CUP FINAL
BRAYTON BELLES 1 V 2 MALET LAMBERT (aet)
The Belles very nearly pulled off a cup final shock but eventually went down to a superbly struck extra time winner by Lauren Holmes. The game was a brilliant advert for U10s football with huge amounts of skill, determination and fighting spirit shown by both sides. Its safe to say that this was probably the best game of the season and it was a shame someone had to lose.
The Belles were determined from the off to show that they were a good team and put Malet on the back foot with some lovely passing football. They got their reward for this opening spell when Rosie Hutton wriggled free and scored after 4 minutes. The Belles continued to press with Giorgia Bromley and Gemma Robinson prominent, trying to release top scorer Beth IAnson. Malet are worthy champions though and they started to get into the match. The Dangerous Ellie Shepherd and Lauren Holmes were at the heart of their best moves and defenders Imogen Hetherington and Chelsea Head knew they were in for a hard morning. Soon player of the week, keeper Rhiannon Brown was called on to make the first of many outstanding saves as Malet started to look the stronger team. Just when it looked like the Belles would go in at half time 1-0 up, Lauren Holmes latched onto a loose ball to finish with aplomb with virtually the last kick of the half.
The second half saw subs Rebecca Risebrow, Kaitlin Doncaster and Grace Priddy enter the fray and the game see sawed as before. Keeper Rhiannon Brown again displayed great skill to keep Malet out and Rebecca Risebrow had a shot cleared off the line and Gemma Robinson thought she had scored but unfortunately the ball didnt quite cross the line. Both teams had run themselves to a standstill but it still remained 1-1 at full time.
Extra time was called for and it was Malet who were now looking strong. It was always going to take a special goal to win it and it inevitably came from Lauren Holmes who turned and struck an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner. The Belles were not done yet and threw everything at Malet however it was Malets day and they are now proud holders of both league and cup.
Both coaches said they were proud of their teams and both teams can be proud to be part of such a fantastic match.
Action photographs from the game can be found on the U10's League & Fixtures page.
Scarborough v Belles U16 2 - 1
High flying Scarborough's refusal to reduce their numbers to make it a level playing field against lowly Belles, who they have beaten easily twice already this season, galvanised the 10 Belles available into probably their best performance of the season.
One wonders what this team could have achieved if they had played with the verve and character shown today on a consistent basis with a settled team throughout the season. The hesitancy and basic errors which have blighted the Belles season thus far disappeared and every member of the team deserve great credit. All ten did their bit, running that little bit further and closing down that little bit quicker to make up for the short fall.
There was nothing between the teams, most of the game was played in the middle of the park where everybody was working extremely hard. The three man Belles defence were superb. Denika Yorke marshalled probably Scarborough's best player well all match whilst Katie Wood and Shanice Lent were immense. Katie made some terrific challenges whilst Shanice was always cool and composed.
Scarborough opened the scoring midway through the first half with a long range speculative strike and doubled their advantage with a similar effort 10 minutes later. Heads never dropped however and the Belles looked to have scored before the ball was hurriedly bundled away and Chloe Precious hit the bar just before the break.
The Belles kept pressing in the second half, Emily Bedford having her most productive game so far and Natalie Foston, Laura Richardson and Lotti Johnson covered every blade of grass in midfield breaking up and setting up play in equal measure. With 20 minutes left they got their reward with Emma Knowles crashing in from close range and with man of match Chloe Precious playing out of her skin causing all kinds of problems, a positive result was on the cards.
Unfortunately it wasn't to be and they understandably tired in the last 10. Scarborough huffed and puffed for that elusive third but a more confident Laura Stephenson in goal was in no mood to succumb and the score line remain. A cracking performance by one and all and a great game to watch. WELL DONE.
19th April 2008
Belles U14 v Copmanthorpe 2 - 0
Brayton put in an assured performance thanks to goals from Jade Roche and Poppy Brennan. Josie Hewson terrorised the Companthorpe goal all match with her pace and shots. However it was her long throw which fell to Jade Roche who controlled and poked past the keeper to make it 1-0 at half time. Further chances were created, the best by Danielle Brown who set up Josie Hewson only for her to shoot narrowly wide.
The pace of Haylam Tang and the determination and positioning of Zoe Ibbetson and Ashley Rowe kept Copmanthorpe at bay when they did threaten. Captain Kate Merry lead by example with her usual assured performance, whereas Jade Roche and Hannah Priddy combined well with some incisive passing movements. In the second half Brayton wasted good chances to increase the lead until returned striker Poppy Brennan struck in the last minute with a well deserved goal to settle any late nerves.
12th April 2008
BELLES HAVE DOUBLE SUCCESS
Brayton Belles had a double celebration this weekend when their under 12 blue team became York League U12 champions and their under 14 team became East Riding League Plate winners. Braytons U12s needed a point against Heworth and York RI to slip up against Poppleton to win the League championship. Katie Todd scored the all important goal for the Belles to put them 1 - 0 up in the first minute. However Heworth hit back just before half time to make it a very nervious second half. The Belles held on and when York RI went down 2 - 0 to Poppleton the league championship was theirs.
Braytons U14 team travelled to Bridlington Town FC to play in the East Riding plate final smashing Heddon Rangers 6 - 0. In form Jodie Lund scored four of the six goals in a very good team display. The Under 14s play York City in the York cup final on 26th April. Whilst the Belles U10s take on Malet Lambert in the East Riding cup final on the same day.
EFGFL Plate final - Brayton Belles U14 v Heddon Rangers 6 - 0
The final, which was held at the Bridlington Town FC ground sarted well for both teams. Lucy Parkin and Jess Bisby comming close for the Belles early on and Heddon testing the Brayton defence. However the game burst into life when Jodie Lund ran onto a through ball from Jess Thompson and cooly slotted the ball past the on coming keeper. Jossie Hewson made some excellent penatrating runs down the right wing and it didn't take long for Lund to get on the end of a cross to drive home Braytons second to give a half time score of 2 - 0.
The Belles expected Heddon to push forward and put pressure on the Belles keeper Antonia Miles in the second half but it never came due to the strong defensive performances from Stainthorpe, Dawson, Huggins, Roche, Thompson and the outstanding Megan Birch.
Instead it was the Belles who went on the attack, Kate Wileman, Hannah Priddy and Kate Merry bossed the midfield providing several more penatrating passes to Kate Murphy and Goal machine Lund who not only competed her hattrick but added another to put Brayton 4 - 0 up. Kate Wileman then got on the score sheet with a well taken twenty yard volley and captain Megan Birch scored the 6th with a tap in again from a Hewson cross.
Player of the match (choosen by the Bridlington Town officals) went to Jodie Lund for a fantastic midfield performance
The Under 14s good run continues as they look forward to the CYGFL cup final against York City on 26th April.
Brayton Belles U10 4 v 1 Pinefleet Wolfreton U10
The Belles wrapped up a successful season with a good win at home to Pinefleet, reversing a 2-1 defeat in the opening match of the season, highlighting the improvement the team has made this year.
It was Pinefleet however who started the brightest, playing some good passing football which caused defenders Chelsea Head and Player of the Match Shannon Yorke problems. Beth IAnson was also forced to make some good saves as Pinefleet sought a way through. With Charlotte Wyles and Gemma Robinson working hard the ball was eventually worked through to Grace Priddy whose defence splitting pass put Rhiannon Brown in to score with The Belles first shot of the game. Rosie Hutton injected some much needed urgency into the match and Gemma Robinson ended a mazey run with a cool finish.
The second half saw The Belles slowly take control of the game and good work by Kaitlin Doncaster put Beth IAnson through who hit an unstoppable shot. Emily Murphy had to be on her toes as Pinefleet continued to threaten, however Beth IAnson broke free and scored her second of the game. Pinefleet did not let their heads drop and got the goal their good football deserved.
The U10s team can take pride in what they have achieved this year and can now look forward to the cup final in 2 weeks time.
Easingwold U14 v Belles U14 1 - 2
Brayton Belles U14 7 aside team continued there recent run of form with a 2 - 1 win over Easingwald.
Brayton were in charge for most of the game but could not make the break through until the pace of Josie Hewson broke the deadlock with a well deserved goal, The Belles defence of stainthorpe,Roach, Brown,Rowe and player of the week Zoe Ibbertson had to work hard to keep the score 1 - 0 at half time.
Despite more pressure and several chances it was not until 4 mins from the end that Brayton got a 2nd, Lucy Parkin created the space in the box before slotting home with her left foot. Easingwold scored in the last minute to make it a tense finish.
Brayton Belles 5 Poppleton 0
Jodie Lund stole the show for the second time in a week with a four goal salvo against Poppleton. Brayton were ahead almost immediately thanks to her great strike. Poppleton showed they were not going to be turned over without a scrap and Antonia Miles was called on to make three good saves in the first 10 minutes. However as Brayton gradually increased the lead the result was never going to be in doubt. The defence of Zoe Ibbetson, player of the match Danielle Brown and Ashley Rowe stayed alert to danger and all were keen to be first to the ball. Eve Dawson scored the other Brayton goal from a low cross and contributed to some fine passing and movement between Kate Murphy, Jess Bisby, Kirsty Huggins and Jodie Lund.
BELLES UNDER 14s CLAIM RUNNERS UP SPOT
Brayton clinched runners up spot in the CYGFL with a fine 2 - 1 victory over rivals Wigginton.
In a closely fought match the Belles eventually took the lead when Lucy Parkin smashed in a shot after powering past the Wigginton defence. Although Brayton pushed for a second goal with good shots from Roche and Wileman it was Wigginton who equalised from a hard driven corner which deflected in off a Belles defender.
Brayton responded well and Megan Birches pinpoint pass down the wing found Kirsty Huggins who crossed the ball into the Wigginton area where Katie Murphy fired home to give the Belles a 2 - 1 lead at half time.
Brayton laid siege to the oppositions area for most of the second half to no avail. And Wigginton could have equalised in the last few minutes if it wasn't for strong tackling from Stainthorpe and Thompson.
Belles U14's go into next weeks cup final against York City on the back of nine straight wins.
5th April 2008
AFC TICKTON v BRAYTON BELLES U14 1 - 4
(Tuesday 8th April)
Braytons U14s are on fire at the moment beating one of the best teams in the East Riding league 4 - 1.
The Belles lost this fixture 5 - 1 earlier in the season so this was a measure of how far they have progressed since then. They passed with flying colours.
Jodie Lund opened the scoring after the Belles had with stood some early pressure from Tickton. A twenty yard power drive skidded under the flailing keeper to put Brayton 1 - 0 up. Kate Murphy also hit the back of the net only to be ruled off side.
Both teams came close to scoring in a tough first half which saw some brilliant pass and move play. Belles keeper Antonia Miles pulled off some fine saves.
The second half started the same as the first with Tickton again pressurizing the Belles defence but strong performances from Birch, Dawson, Thompson and Roche kept them at bay giving Tickton few chances to equalise.
It was then the Belles turn to attack and quick passing from Wileman (player of the match) Hewson and Stainthorpe put attacker Lucy Parkin through to out pace the Tickton defence and riffle the ball home. Parkin made it 3 - 0 from a Katie Merry cross and Jess Bisby finished the match with a fine individual goal.
Tickton scored a consolation goal near the end but the Belles go into Sundays final full of confidence.
Brayton Belles U10 0 v 2 Malet Lambert U10
Cup final opponents Malet Lambert again proved too strong for a game but eventually, outgunned Brayton Team.
With Malet going all out for a win that would bring them a step closer to winning the title, they were soon attacking the Brayton goal forcing Beth IAnson into some good saves. Defenders Rhiannon Brown and Shannon Yorke were having to work very hard to keep Malet out. Rosie Hutton however started making some strong runs supported by Giorgia Bromley and Imogen Hetherington. The pressure eventually told when Ellie Shepherd got free and coolly slotted home. The Brayton Girls fought back with Rebecca Risebrow making some lovely runs on the right. Just before half-time however a brilliant passing move by Malet saw Lauren Holmes sprint clear and her shot gave the keeper no chance.
It was clear that if Brayton were to get anything from this game they would have to put in their best ever performance. However, with player of the week Gemma Robinson putting in some crucial tackles and driving her team forwards, the Belles started to make chances. A fantastic turn and volley from Beth IAnson saw the Mallet keeper pull of a great save. Chelsea Head was solid at the back and Grace Priddy worked hard to try and get a goal back and as Brayton pressed, Malet always looked dangerous on the break.
At the end it was too big a mountain to climb for the Belles and they will hope it will be third time lucky when the teams meet again in the cup final. Both teams deserve praise for the skill, determination and sportsmanship they all displayed.
Poppleton Tigers U12 3 3 Brayton Blue u12
Brayton must have thought that the points were already in the bag by half time, as both Evie Smythe and Chloe Parkin scored from close range to send The Belles firmly in command at the interval. As the second half began, Brayton had a mad 3 minutes spell, and conceded 2 goals in quick succession and so the half time advantage disappeared in a flash. Brayton pulled together and dusted themselves down and began to plug away at Poppletons defence in search of a winner. Midfielder Smythe added to her tally, with a thunderous strike from close range but the game was far from over. Poppleton were awarded a penalty for hand ball which was superbly saved by Belles keeper and player of the match, Bethany Stephenson. Poppleton had the wind in their sails and were not going to give in easily as shot after shot rained in on The Belles goal mouth. Brayton worked hard to protect their fragile lead, but in the dying minutes of the game their defence was breached once more as a thunderous shot gave The Belles keeper no chance, and once again the scores were level, with honours ending even in this pulsating game. The final outcome suited Brayton better than todays opponents as The Belles quest for the lead title hots up.
Hull City U14 0 v 15 Brayton Belles U14
Braytons U14s are absolutely storming at the moment. In the last three matches they have score 33 goals and kept three clean sheets.
For the third time in as many matches Brayton took the lead in the first few minutes from a Hannah Priddy shot which deflected into the Hull goal.
Again and again the Belles pushed the City defence and came away with a hat trick of hat tricks with Kate Wileman and Jodie Lund scoring three each and Josie Hewson topping them both with four.
Captain Megan Birch got on the score sheet along with Jess Bisby and two from Lucy Parkin. The Belles defence coped well with the Hull City attacks but the real heroes of this match were the Belles keepers Jess Thompson and Zoe Ibbertson who had very little to do in a very cold and sometimes wet match.
Player of the match went to Ashley Rowe who had a very solid game on the left hand side.
The Belles play Heddon Rangers next week in the ERGFL Plate final at the Bridlington Town FC ground.
Brayton Belles U12 Reds 3 Stamford Bridge U12 0
The visitors held firm through the first half of this last match of the season, in spite of constant Belles pressure. Emily Thomson opened the scoring shortly after the break with a well struck shot from directly in front of goal. Belles then began passing the ball with renewed confidence, with Anya Limbert converting a rebound for Belles second. Player of the week Sammi Collier finally added a goal to the tally after a determined performance chasing every stray ball. Also on their usual good form were Zoe Ribchester, Jessica Senior, Ellie Naylor and keeper Katie Parker. Belles final mid league position is a credit to their continued effort and commitment. Well done.
29th March 2008
WIGGINTON U14 v BRAYTON BELLES U14 0 - 8
Once again Brayton got off to a fantastic start in this York league match when Jodie Lund scored in the second minute with a quality finish.
Jodie banged in a second from a Jade Roche cross to make it 2 - 0 after only five minutes which knocked the stuffing out of Wigginton.
Kate Wileman made it 3 - 0 to the Belles before half time, this time from a through pass from speed machine Josie Hewson.
The second half started with Wigginton kicking off. Kate Wileman imeadiately robbed the ball off the Wigginton forwards darted past three Wigginton players and rocketed the ball passed a bewildered keeper into the bottom corner.
Jodie Lund secured her hat trick after a fine passing move which involved all the Belles players finishing with Lund powering the ball into the top corner.
Megan Birch came close on several occassions and finally after hitting the bar with a thunderous shot Jade Roche tapped the ball home from the rebound. An own goal followed and Kate Merry snatched a deserved goal to make it 8 - 0 to the Belles.
Braytons defence of Jess Thompson, Haylam Tang, Megan Hill and Megan Birch tamed the Wigginton forwards giving them very few scoring chances.
Megan Birch was player of the match. This win takes Brayton to just one point behind Wigginton with games in hand
22nd March 2008
BRAYTON BELLES U14 v POPPLETON 10 - 0
Brayton got off to a fantastic start in this wind swept match. Jade Roche slotted home from a Jodie Lund cross after just 30 seconds.
That set the tone for the rest of the match with the Belles out powering Poppleton in all areas. Roche soon made it two, this time following up from a Megan Birch power drive.
Jess Bisby was on song again scoring a fine hat trick the best coming from a weaving run past several Poppleton defenders.
Goals from Kate Merry, Jodie Lunn, Eve Dawson, Hannah Priddy and an own goal put the Belles into double figures.
Jess Thompson defended well and keeper Antonia Miles who had a very quiet game turned attacker in the last ten minutes coming close on several occasions to getting on the score sheet.
Brayton are now just one point behind Wigington and with two games in hand look forward to playing them next weekend.
15th March 2008
Malet Lambert U10 2 Brayton Belles U10 Red 1
In what the Malet Lambert coach described as the best game of the year, The Belles were beaten by an exceptional goal in the closing minutes.
The first half was a closely fought affair, with Malet playing some good passing football, however the Belles defence of Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head held firm and anything that did get through was safely dealt with by first half keeper Beth IAnson. With player of the week Giorgia Bromley in outstanding form, Rosie Hutton working hard chances were created for Grace Priddy. Gemma Robinson was driving the Belles forward setting up Kaitlin Doncaster however the half ended with honours even.
The second half however exploded into action after only 37 seconds when a long clearance by second half keeper Rhiannon Brown was picked up by Beth IAnson who finished with aplomb to put the Belles 1-0 up. With Rebecca Risebrow making some telling runs the Belles went looking for their second. Malet however came storming back and slowly started to exert pressure on the Belles defence which held firm with Shannon Yorke outstanding. A couple of fantastic strikes forced Rhiannon Brown to make some excellent stops, however after a flowing move she was unable to keep out another splendid strike. Malet were now throwing everything at the Belles and it was looking like they would hang on for a draw but were undone by a fantastic strike with only a couple of minutes remaining, which arrowed into the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance.
It was tough on the Belles who had matched a strong Malet team for much of the game but credit must be given to all the girls on both sides who gave everything and they should be proud of themselves.
Heworth U12 1 Brayton Belles U12 Red 0
Brayton dominated the first half of this cup semi final, with almost constant pressure on the Heworth goal from Sophie Hudson, Emily Thomson and Anya Limbert all pushing forward, supported by Zoe Ribchester in central midfield. Emma Tune, Jessica Senior and goalie Katie Parker gave their usual solid performance in defense. The second half saw Heworth attacking with renewed vigor, eventually resulting in the only goal of the match. Substitutes Ellie Naylor and Sammi Collier also gave their all, but to no avail. Belles fought hard to the end, but it wasn't to be. With a performance they could be proud of, all players share the player of the week award.
Brayton Belles U14 3 7 Scarborough U14
Brayton started slow and were punished by a Scarborough side who were sharper and quicker to every ball in a amazing first 20 mins, Jodie Lund in goal for the first half had no chance as Scarborough raced to a 5 nil half time lead.
Brayton started the 2nd half in a more determined mood, Lund now playing out latched onto a Wileman through ball to pull a goal back, player of the match Lund grabbed 2 more goals as Brayton started to dominate. Hewson, Merry and Wileman all had chances on goal, as Brayton tired Scarborough took advantage and scored 2 late goals making the final score 7 3.
Easingwold U14's 0 - Brayton Belles U14's 1
Brayton reached their second final in two weeks by defeating Easingwold 1-0 in the York and District League Cup Semi Final. A nail biting encounter ensued with maximum effort shown by both teams. Without a regular keeper, Brayton had four goalies in the match. Easingwold laid siege to the Brayton goal in the early stages, hitting the bar and forcing a fine save from Kate Murphy. Brayton identified the danger player and doubled up defensively, with captain Jade Roche leading by example, and gradually Brayton hauled themselves into the game. Kate Murphy, Hannah Priddy and Jess Bisby were linking up with real threat and after several spawned chances, Jess Bisby reacted first to a loose ball in the box to give Brayton the lead seconds before half time.
Easingwold to their credit were not going to roll over without a real fight, but wave after wave of attacks were snuffed out by the outstanding defensive display from Megan Hill, Kirsty Huggins and player of the match Danielle Brown. All fought and scrapped to be first to the ball against players twice their size. As the game wore on the fitness of Kirsty Huggins showed as she moved forward to boss the right side of midfield. Jade Roche kept the teams shape and showed great maturity and Hannah Priddy continued her fine run of form on the left. With two minutes to go Kirsty Huggins broke down the left and crossed to Kate Murphy who hit it first time to produce a wonderful save from the Easingwold keeper. Almost immediately Easingwold counter attacked and finally got behind the Brayton defence, but keeper Jess Bisby came off her line and ensured the ball, player and anything else in her way was firmly put into touch.
With the last scare over and few finger nails left, Brayton reached the cup final with a storming performance from every single player.
Brayton Belles U16 2 v 5 Scarborough Ladies U16
After an evenly contested and open first 15 minutes with both teams playing good positive football, Scarborough took the lead through an unopposed header from their first corner of the game. The Belles had a great chance to equalise, Emma Knowles carving out an opportunity but her shot went over the bar.
There then followed a period of sustained pressure from the away side and the Belles inability to clear their lines in crucial positions culminated in them surrendering two more goals. Heads never went down however and everybody worked extremely hard; the Belles got their reward and a lifeline when Chloe Precious finished really well after being put through by Emma.
The second half was a much more even affair; the game ebbed and flowed and it was clear the team to score next would probably win the game. Unfortunately for the Belles it was Scarborough when a speculative shot come cross managed to loop into the top corner of the net.
Again the Belles rallied Lotti Johnson made a fine run down the left putting in a quality cross where a Scarborough defender under intense pressure put into her own net. In the dying seconds Scarborough added a flattering 5th. As stated previously however but for individual and avoidable errors and a bit more belief from some there was nothing between these two sides and on another day the scoreline could have easily been reversed.
8th March 2008
Copmanthorpe U12 0 Brayton Belles U12 Red 4
Belles regained their confident form this week with a comprehensive win over Copmanthorpe. After a slow start, player of the match, Emily Thomson opened the scoring with a trademark strike. Continued pressure from Sophie Hudson down the left wing and Sammi Collier up front challenged the Copmanthorpe defence. However, it was Thomson who struck twice more for her first hat trick of the season. Zoe Ribchester added the fourth from a lovely set piece play from a Sophie Hudson corner. Another strong performance from Jess Senior and Ellie Naylor in defence and keeper Katie Parker kept a clean sheet for Belles.
YORK RI U10 2 V 3 BRAYTON BELLES U10 (Friendly game)
A free weekend enabled The Belles to arrange a friendly match against York RI.
Playing with a strong wind at their backs, The Belles were soon hitting their stride. Charlotte Wiles showed great determination and strength to break a couple of tackles before crossing perfectly for Rhiannon Brown to tap home from short range. Not to be outdone, player of the week Charlotte Wiles was on target to score her first goal for the club. With Gemma Robinson and Chelsea Head providing the passes and Rebecca Risebrow making her trademark runs down the right, it wasnt long before Shannon Yorke hit a good shot from the edge of the box to open her Belles account.
Like last week, the second half was a rearguard action as the wind strengthend and The Belles had to dig deep. Both Hannah Collier and Rachael Kel-Isaac making their debuts work exceedingly hard and were involved in some of The Belless best moments. York deservedly scored 2 second half goals but The Belles hung on to record the win.
Special thanks to York RI for organising this friendly.
York City 10 - 0 Belles U14 (7 a side)
Brayton were up against a strong City team in this York league match. The league leaders pressurised Brayton throughout the match. Although twice early on the Belles could have taken the lead when Hannah Priddy and Jess Bisby broke through the York defence. Stand in keeper Kirsty Huggins made several fantastic saves before succumbing to three first half goals.
The second half started with injured defender Hylam Tang taking a turn in goal. Braytons defence were then torn apart over a fifteen minute spell leaving the bewildered keeper dazed. Good performances especially from Jess Bisby (player of the match) and Megan Hill failed to keep the score from double figures. Although disappointed the young Belles learnt some key lessons to take forward to their semi final match against Easingwold.
South Cave U14 1v 3 Brayton Belles U14 (11 a-side)
Brayton proceeded to the East Riding Plate Final with a fine display on a blustery afternoon in South Cave. The first half ended 0 - 0 with both teams applying sustained periods of pressure. South Cave dominated early on but the defence of Ailsa Stainthorpe, Kate Merry, Eve Dawson and Megan Birch showed their usual determination and stood firm. Jodie Lund has an excellent first half and her combined well with Josie Hewson as Brayton started to dominate.
The second half saw South Cave take the lead through a well taken free kick but Brayton were level two minutes later when Jodie Lund equalised through a well taken penalty following a hand ball. From here on Brayton asserted themselves, Kate Wileman and Jade Roche started to pull the strings in midfield, and Josie Hewson terrified the South Cave defence with her pace. Kate Murphy and Lucy Parkin hassled the South Cave defence all afternoon but it was player of the match Lucy Parkin who shone, and combined pace skill and a super cool finish to put Brayton ahead following some defensive hesitance. Danielle Brown put in a terrific battling performance and Antonia Miles in goal was to thank for a fingertip save to prevent South Cave equalising. Nerves were settled with a well deserved goal for Josie Hewson from a Jodie Lund corner and Brayton recorded a well deserved victory.
1st March 2008
BRAYTON BELLES U10 0 V 0 SOUTH CAVE
Honours were even in this closely fought encounter when both sides played some terrific football in very difficult windy conditions.
With the wind at their backs it was Belles who exerted most of the pressure and Grace Priddy and Imogen Hetherington went close. With Gemma Robinson again playing an influential part, and Kaitlin Doncaster working hard chances were being created. South Cave defended well and were always dangerous on the break, putting together some good passing moves, only to be thwarted by Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head.
The second half saw South Cave taking advantage of the wind forcing numerous corners. Dogged defending by Emily Murphy and player of the week Chelsea Head kept the scores level. Like South Cave in the first half, the Belles had to rely on quick breaks and some great running by Rebecca Risebrow and Giorgia Bromley saw Beth IAnson go close. As the game drew to a close and with both teams giving everything to find the elusive winner, a lovely move saw Grace Priddy race clear only for the South Cave keeper to pull off a match saving stop.
A draw however was the right result for 2 committed and skilful teams.
Brayton Belles u12 Blue 4-0 Stamford Bridge U12
Both teams fought hard to keep the ball under control and play some sort of football in the very windy conditions. Belles had the full force of the wind behind them in the first half but managed to find the net only once when Ciara McEvoy steamed in on the lose ball to open the Belles account. In the second half with the wind in their faces, Braytons style of play, changed for the better as they began to pass the ball around more presicely. Belles created more chances in front of the visitors goal and it wasnt long before they increased their lead when player of the week Katie Todd struck from close range. Further goals from Mellisa Till and a second from the in-form McEvoy wrapped up the game and more inportantly safely gathered the points for the Belles for their quest for a second league title in a row gathers place.
BRAYTON BELLES OPEN AGE 1 V 5 DEARNE AND DISTRICT
Brayton Belles had their unbeaten record come to an end on 02nd March 08 at
home, against the leaders of the league Dearne and District. Although this
was always going to be a tough game for the Belles, a further complication
occurred when so many players were absent from the team resulting in only
12 players being available.
Despite the initial shortage of players, the playing eleven Belles started
well and successfully defended several attempts on goal for the first 35
minutes of the 1st half. However disaster struck around the 35th minute
when a Dearne player managed to breach the defence to score the opening
goal and the Belles had few attempts on the Dearne goal.
At half time the score was 0-1 and a couple of Belles suffered some
injuries in the first half, despite this all players soldiered on as there
was only one sub available for the whole of the second half. Shortly after
the second half started Dearne and District scored a further two goals, but
the Belles fought back and Jenna Rogers managed to score a goal back to
give the Belles a glimmer of hope. The Belles started taking possession of
the ball with both Nikki Copeland and Bev Horsfield both hitting the post.
However lady luck did not shine on the Belles and Dearne and District
managed to score a further goal to make it 1- 4. Despite Dearne and
District leading, one of their players showed poor discipline which lead to
a red card being shown, this then lead to a succession of a further Dearne
player and their spectator being sent away from the field of play.
The game reconvened for a further ten minutes but the Belles did not
maximise this opportunity and instead Dearne and District scored their
final goal to make it 1-5 at the final whistle. Many thanks to Frank
Holleran for refereeing this game.
23rd February 2008
Brayton Belles U10 3 v 1 Springhead U10
A second half hat-trick from Beth IAnson was the difference between 2 committed teams who both played some excellent football.
This was the third meeting between these 2 teams this season with The Belles coming out on top in the first 2 matches, Springhead were determined to get some revenge this time out. Playing some neat football, they began to look dangerous and Shannon Yorke and Charlotte Wiles had to be on their toes to keep them out. First half keeper Beth IAnson was soon called on to make a good save. With Giorgia Bromley and Imogen Hetherington working hard, saw Rhiannon Brown force the Springhead keeper into a great save. It was Springhead however who took the lead midway through the first half with a great run and shot which flew into the net. The Belles came fighting back with Rosie Hutton causing lots of problems and Grace Priddy getting in on the action. Springhead nearly made it 2-0 but Beth IAnson tipped a stinging shot over the bar. As the half drew to a close, again the Springhead keeper made a fantastic save from a Rosie Hutton shot to make sure Springhead went into half-time 1-0 ahead.
The second half saw Beth IAnson swap positions with Rhiannon Brown and with player of the week Gemma Robinson making some great challenges in midfield and then linking with the strikers, Beth IAnson scored her first of the match. Springhead were not to be outdone and only fine defending from Emily Murphy kept them out. Once again great teamwork put Beth IAnson away for her second and she deservedly wrapped up her hat-trick with another well taken goal near the end.
Another great team performance from the Belles U10 team who are proving to be a tough team to beat but more importantly are have a lot of fun.
Pinefleet Wolverton U14 1 0 Brayton Belles U14
A terrific performance by the improving U14 side saw them narrowly beaten 1 0 by league leaders Pinefleet wolverton.
Playing against the wind in the first half Brayton were put under pressure and needed a goal line clearance from Eve Dawson after only 2 minutes to keep the score level.
Katie Wileman made several fine saves in goal but had no chance when a Pinefleet corner aided by the wind went in the top corner to give Pinefleet the lead.
Merry,Ibbetson,Thompson and Dawson had to work hard in defence to keep Pinefleet at bay.Birch and Lund started to control midfield forcing 2 late corners but could not find the net.
Playing with the wind in the second half Brayton created several chances, Parkin, Stainthorpe, Bisby and Hewson all had chances but could not make the break through to get a deserved point.
York League U14's Quarter Final - Brayton Belles 1 - 0 Knaresborough
Brayton progressed through to the Semi Finals of the York League Cup thanks to a Kate Murphy goal. It was a game of two halves as far as Brayton were concerned. The first half there were few chances for either team. In the second half Brayton looked much the brighter. Player of the match Hannah Priddy, and Jade Roche combined well with Kate Murphy and gradually Brayton started to dominate. Haylam Tang was to thank for clearing from the Brayton goal-line and looked assured alongside Megan Hill who also defended well. Kirsty Huggins provided great energy in the 2nd half in midfield, and Danielle Brown and Sophie Taylor gave everything, completing an entire U13's team in this U14's competition.
It was a Jade Roche and Hannah Priddy interchange which resulted in Kate Murphy being released in on goal and she duly rounded the advancing keeper to slot home the all important goal. All in all the girls can be pleased with their performance, particularly in the 2nd half.
Driffield U16s 1 v 4 Brayton Belles U16 (match abandoned due to serious injury)
A suspected leg fracture to Driffields Katie Melling took the gloss off probably the Belles most dominant display of the season.
They were up for it straight from the whistle. Emma Knowles scored her first virtually from the kick off and added a second within 5 minutes. This calmed the whole team down and everybody played with confidence and purpose. Natalie Foston was tricky and inventive and without doubt played her best game of the season. Also, Katie Wood dominated the middle of the park winning every tackle and distributing the ball well under pressure.
It was against the run of play when Driffield broke clear from half way. Rachel Huggins made a superb save before she succumbed to the rebound. Then followed a purple patch for Chloe Precious, who had been linking play well upfront earning her reward scoring two quality goals making it 4 - 1 at the break.
In the second half it was one-way traffic. With The Belles permanently encased in the Driffield half, it looked like only a matter of time before the Belles goal tally would increase until the cruel leg break brought the game to a premature end.
Overall, a fantastic all round team performance with lots of positives.
Brayton Belles U12 Red 0 York RI U12 1
This was a very tight game all round. The Belles defence took a while to settle, and York capitalised with an early goal from a well placed corner. Learning quickly from their mistake, The Belles then held firm at the back, clearing their lines well, with a particularly determined effort from player of the week Jessica Senior. Up front, Sophie Hudson, Emily Thomson and Anya Limbert battled hard, but this week were unable to convert their chances. A good performance all round, with honours even over the two matches against this higher placed opposition.
LEPTON HIGHLANDERS 0 V 3 BRAYTON BELLES OPEN AGE
Brayton Belles came one step closer to winning the West Riding Open Age
Shield reaching the semi-finals by beating Lepton Highlanders on 24th February 08. The tie against the West Riding Premiership side was held at Lepton Highlanders home ground and the Belles were the definite under dogs going into this game.
Despite the late kick off due to another cup game running into extra time,
the Belles were eager to play and had an excellent first half. All the
players knuckled down to their roles, ensuring the ball was passed around
to team mates feet and Lepton were allowed very little time in possession
of the ball. Leading goal scorer Jess Dunn scored two goals and a further
goal scored by Jenna Rogers, meant that the Belles were on top at the half
time whistle 0-3. At half time the Belles coach Scott Birch described the
team as playing "the best football yet this season" and urged the players
to keep up the good work.
The second half saw Lepton start to take more possession of the ball and
change their team around by substituting players, but all the Belles
players were still determined to keep the Highlanders at bay by winning the
ball back successfully and defending the lead. By the time the full time
whistle was blown Brayton Belles had managed to retain the 0-3 score line
and achieved their second clean sheet of the season. The players of the
match were Leah Rogers and Meganne Summers for their respective
contributions to the game.This was the Belles eighth successive win and the
next tie is planned to take place on 16th March 08.
Whitley Wolves U12 0 v 6 Brayton Belles U12 Blue
Despite the final score line, the Belles started the game looking a bit lethergic against their local rivals, but as the first half drew to a close Brayton began to find their form. Goals by Evie Smyth and Izzie Forth made a half time team talk a little calmer. The Belles began the second half in a more comfortable and confident mode, and rattled the home sides defence on numerous occassions. Caira McEvoy bagged herself a brace of goals as did second half sub Katie Todd. Any threat on Braytons defence were dealt with soundly. Player of the week Amy Wilson worked her hard throughout the match to keep Braytons goals against tally in the game at nil.
16th February 2008
DRIFFIELD U10 0 V 3 BRAYTON BELLES U10
The Belles came out on top on a beautiful sunny morning against a competitive Driffield Team looking to overturn the 3 0 defeat to the Belles earlier in the season.
The Belles found it hard work up the slope and took some time to get going. However, with Rosie Hutton linking well with Gemma Robinson the Belles started to create chances. Chelsea Head brought a sharp save from the Driffield keeper and Rosie went close with a shot. Driffield were always dangerous on the break and new defensive pairing of Shannon Yorke and Charlotte Wiles worked hard and keeper Rhiannon Brown was a safe pair of hands when Driffield did get close. It was Rosie Hutton however who broke the deadlock with a cool finish after being put through by Gemma Robinson.
Playing with the slope in the second half the Belles piled on the pressure. Player of the week Imogen Hetherington and Georgia Bromley both went close before Gemma Robinsonhit struck to make it 2-0. Rebecca Risebrow made some strong runs on the right and Kaitlin Doncaster worked hard before Rosie Hutton pounced on a loose ball after a Gemma Robinson had struck a post to make it three. Driffield never stopped working and were unlucky to find keeper Rhiannon Brown on good form to prevent them from scoring a deserved goal.
Overall, a good team performance from the Belles again.
Stamford Bridge U12 0 v Brayton Belles U12 Red 4
A semi final place was up for grabs in this game. Both sides started with determination, and in spite of numerous shots on the Stamford goal with Anya Limbert, Sophie Hudson and player of the week Sammi Collier pushing forward for all they were worth, it remained scoreless at half time. Brayton started the second half with renewed vigour, Sophie Hudson eventually being rewarded with a goal in the first couple of minutes. This prompted a tactical change for Belles, and Emily Thomson was unleashed, with Ellie Naylor taking over in goal. Thomson had an instant impact, slotting in her first of the day under the keeper. Defender Emma Tune then slotted in a perfectly placed corner from Zoe Ribchester, closely followed by Thomson's second. Belles meet Heworth in the semi final on 15th March
BELLES OPEN AGE v Rothwell Ladies 4 - 1
Brayton Belles Open Age continued their fantastic winning streak, with their seventh consecutive win on 17th February 08 versus Rothwell Town.
The first half started well with Jenna Rogers opening the scoring within the first ten minutes of the match, however Brayton did not take advantage of this lead and allowed Rothwell back into the game, by half time Rothwell had equalised.
Following the break, Brayton Belles resumed the game with a fighting spirit and determination to win the game which would take them to 2nd place in the West Riding league, there were some excellent passes which applied constant pressure to Rothwells goal area. A number of chances were missed by the Belles, however Eve Cogan created some fantastic opportunities for the strikers by providing some excellent passes from midfield. This led to Jenna Rogers scoring a further two goals and Braytons top goal scorer this season Jess Dunn bagging another goal for the Belles, taking her tally to 19 goals scored this season, with Jenna Rogers only 2 goals behind her.
A key highlight for the team saw the return of the fantastic defender Leah Rogers, who returned to play following a lengthy 5 month absence from injury. As all the Belles showed great courage and commitment during the second half, no player of the match was named and all players were recognised for their part in the second half revival.
9th February 2008
BELLES U14 (11) v Driffield (Cup) 9 - 0
Brayton Belles dominated from start to finish in an accomplished performance against Driffield. The central midfield duo of Jodie Lund (4 goals) and player of the match Kate Wileman (1 goal) bossed the midfield, whilst the combination of Jess Bisby (3 goals), Josie Hewson (1 goal) and Lucy Parkin continually rained havoc on the exellent Driffield goalkeeper.
Hannah Priddy, Jade Roche and Kate Merry all put in great performances down the flanks giving the team width and although quiet the defensive combination of Ailsa Stainthorpe, captain Megan Birch, Kirtsy Huggins, Eve Dawson and Jess Thompson snuffed out any danger on the Brayton goal.
Although relatively comfortable, the most pleasing aspect of the display was the desire to pass the ball which was notable throughout the whole team and culminated in some of the best football Brayton have played this season.
2nd February 08
BRAYTON BELLES (OPEN AGE) 7 v 1 HEMSWORTH
Brayton Belles Open Age team continued their winning ways with the fourth win on the trot against Hemsworth on 03rd Feb 08. The game got off to a good start with Jess Dunn opening the scoring yet again in the first half, but despite taking the lead an unfortunate incident between the defence and goalkeeper meant that Hemsworth equalised shortly after. The recent blustery weather affected the game again for the second week running and Brayton were disadvantaged by the direction of the wind in the first half.
However by keeping the ball on the ground and the whole team passing well between them, there was plenty of opportunities for Brayton to score, but the chances were not converted into goals in the first half and by half time the score line was 1-1.
The second half saw a reverse in the Belles fortunes and most of the chances created were converted into goals. The defence and midfield created plenty of opportunities for the strikers and with the confidence of the team growing from strength to strength, the strikers Jenna Rogers and Jess Dunn kept their cool in front of the keeper and aimed superbly to score many times. By the end of the game the score was Brayton belles 7 1 Hemsworth, with Jess Dunn scoring 4 and Jenna Rogers 3. The player of the match was Captain Meganne Summers for her great effort and fantastic challenges throughout the game.
26th January 2008
Belles Open age v Westland 3 - 1
Brayton Belles Open team continued their winning ways with a further
success at West End Ladies on 27th January 08. The weather conditions were
extremely windy and cold on the exposed pitch at Huddersfield new College,
but the Brayton Belles were motivated to win and managed to start the
scoring off within the first few minutes of the game. Jess Dunn top scorer
for this season had a good run towards goal and tapped the opener into the
oppositions net.
As the gusty conditions prevailed it made life difficult for both teams to
play, but half way through the first half West End ladies attacked the
Brayton goal and managed a great shot on target, to ensure the score was
level at half time. There were no real further chances in the first half
and both teams held onto the level score.
In the second half Brayton were disadvantaged because of the direction of
the strong wind, however a few good chances were created by playing the
ball on the ground and with some fancy footwork from Holly Cogan, she
managed to score two goals. Brayton Belles hung onto the lead by defending
well and West End never really looked like scoring in the second half.
The final whistle was West End ladies 1 - 3 Brayton Belles
Player of the match was Holly Cogan
Goole Town Girls U10 0 v 1 Brayton Belles U10
The Belles were glad to be back in action again after 6 weeks off due to the weather and holidays against a much improved Goole Town side.
The match was switched to an artificial pitch and that together with the windy conditions made playing football extremely difficult. It was a credit to both sides that they produced an exciting game which could have gone either way.
It was Goole who broke first but new defensive pairing of Shannon Yorke and Charlotte Wiles kept them out. With Gemma Robinson and Grace Priddy working hard and Chelsea Head joining the midfield the Belles started to exert some pressure. Playing up front for the first time, Rhiannon Brown used her strength and skill well and caused the Goole defence problems. It was end to end though and all the girls were working extremely hard in difficult conditions. It was Brayton who broke the deadlock just before half time when Rhiannon Brown deservedly got on the end of a lose ball to touch it home for her first goal this season.
For the second half the Belles attacked into the strong wind but Goole playing some neat football were always dangerous and second half keeper Rhiannon Brown had to make some sharp saves. With Rebecca Risebrow and Rosie Hutton making some fine runs, Beth IAnson started to get some chances. The Belles were awarded a penalty midway through the half but Beth IAnsons well struck penalty was well saved by the Goole keeper. At 1-0 the Belles were never comfortable and Goole went very close near the end but player of the week Shannon Yorke managed to keep them out.
Belles U16 v Hessle Rangers 5 5
Everybody connected with the squad were gutted at the end as Hessle had just equalized with the last kick.
However in hind sight, heads should be held high, depleted again through illness and injury, plus 2 goals down after 5 minutes after their customary sleepy start the Belles dug deep. Grace O'farrell reduced the arrears through sheer guts and determination. this proved a catalyst for the remainder of the contest and the Belles were now on the ascendancy. Where Jess Watts' delivery, Chloe Precious and Emma Knowles' power and skill were causing all sorts of problems. It was against the run of play when Hessle gained their 2 goal advantage. The rest of the half belonged to the Belles and the ever dependable Emma scored 2 beauties to make it level by half time.
The second half was end to end stuff and very tense both teams had chances Katy Wood marshalled the defence superbly and Rachael Huggins was brilliant in goal. Cracks began to appear in Hessles defence Emma and Chloe capitalised and with 10 minutes to go it looked like the Belles could be celebrating there second win of the season. Unfortunately it wasn't to be Hessle scoring that equalizer right at the death.
Once again the team has showed great commitment and spirit and were unlucky not to win today. learn to start the game at the first whistle and the results are bound to follow.
Brayton Belles 0 0 Wiggington U14
The wind played a big part in this game with Brayton under presuure in the first half which saw Wiggington have the better chances forcing Zoe Ibbetson to make 2 fine saves to keep the score 0 0.
Megan Hill, Haylam Tang and Ashley Rowe were solid in defence all through the match.
In the 2nd half the game came to life with player of the week Hannah Priddy creating all sorts of problems in midfield linking up well with Lucy Parkin ,Danielle Brown and Sophie Taylor. Brayton came close when Tang fired a long range shot just wide.
Ailsa Stainthorpe had very little to do in goal in the 2nd half.The best move of the match started with Priddy passing to Parkin who played priddy back in for a shot which was blocked and scrabbled away to safety.
Brayton Belles U12 blues 0 Fulford U12 0
Brayton under 12 blue side kept their unbeaten run in tact with a hard fought and well contested match against an ever improving Fulford side.
Most of the match was fiercely contested in midfield with neither side giving anything away in the final third. What goal bound efforts the visitors made were dealt with comfortably by the belles back three of backhouse, player of the week, Amy Wilson and keeper Beth Stephenson. Belles pushed hard in the second half to claim the spoils, with efforts from Chloe Parkin, Caira McEvoy and Evie Smythe all going close. As the game drew to a close a draw for both teams was a fair result.
19th January 2008
Brayton Belles (Open Age) 4 v 2 Sheffield United
Brayton Belles Open Age team continued their winning spell on 20th January
08 versus Sheffield Utd in the West Riding Open Age Shield quarter finals.
The visitors were a skilled and physical side but all of the Brayton Belles
players held their own, winning physical challenges in defence and mid
field during the first half. The scoring was nearly opened by Jess Dunn
again when she took a first half penalty, however the Sheffield Utd keeper
saved the kick. Within minutes though Jess Dunns persistence was rewarded
and by half time Jess had scored two excellent goals, resulting in the
Belles leading by 2 goals to nil at half time. At the beginning of the
second half a third goal was scored by Jenna Rogers, although Sheffield Utd
got back into the game passing down the wings and managing to breach the
Brayton Belles defence, to score 2 goals.
Brayton Belles composed themselves despite the game becoming particularly
heated, as a result of a poor challenge by one the Sheffield Utd players a
free kick was awarded to Brayton Belles just on the edge of the Sheffield
Utd penalty area, which Kelly Gosnay took superbly and scored her first
goal of the season.
Brayton Belles managed to hold onto the lead and eventually won 4 - 2, the
player of the match was Kelly Gosnay.
Brayton Belles U12 Red 0 Brayton Belles U12 Blue 1
This derby game between clubmates brought an abundance of thrills and excitement throughout. The Reds knew they would have to do something special if they were to stop their top of the league rivals, and gave a performance to be proud of in this tightly fought match. The Red defence held firm under pressure through the first half, but lost out just seconds before the stroke of half time with keeper Katie Parker not quite able to get back to her feet to collect a rebound. The second half saw more pressure from the Blues, but the Reds held on with excellent performances from Emma Tune, Ellie Naylor and Jess Senior in defence, and Emily Thomson, Sophie Hudson, Anya Limbert and Sammi Collier chasing every ball up front as if their lives depended on it. Player of the week was Zoe Ribchester, who showed let hardly anything past her in central midfield. Well done to both teams for their effort and commitment.
12th january 2008
Belles Open age v Sheffield United 10 - 0
Brayton Belles open age team continued their good start to 2008 with a further victory on 13th January 08. During the first half Brayton Belles had numerous attempts on goal against Sheffield Utd, Jess Dunn,Cassi Cardall and Jenna Rogers all had missed chances. Until Jess Dunn broke the deadlock during the first half and then scored a further 2 goals before half time by using her speed and skill to take the ball past the Sheffield players. Eve Cogan in midfield created a number of chances for the strikers, by passing some visionary long balls down the wings and into
the attacking goal area. After half time there was a good combination of passing play down the wings and through the mid field, Jess Dunn scored a further 4 goals, Holly Cogan
scored 2 and Jenna Rogers a further 1. With only 15 minutes to go,Sheffield Utd swopped players and their goal keeper who had a height advantage became a striker. By making this swop Sheffield Utd achieved a couple of attempts on Brayton Belles goal, but goalie Claire Smith defended
her goal well and made some good saves to keep the first clean sheet of the season for the Belles. The score at the final whistle was Brayton Belles 10 - 0 Sheffield Utd and
the player of the match was Jess Dunn for the 2nd time this season.
Malet Lambert U14 v Brayton Belles U14 4 - 0
The Belles travelled to league leaders Malet Lambert and despite the final score took allot of positives from the game.
New keeper Antonia Miles had an excellent debut making some vital saves throughout. Braytons new look defence got off to a shaky start and after two early mistakes and a 25 yard shot found themselves 3 - 0 down at half time.
The second half was a different story with Eve Dawson and Megan Birch excelling in the centre of defence and Kate Merry and Jess Thompson blocking the fast Malet wingers. The Brayton defence is finally starting to click. Support from Lucy Parkin, Halem Tang, Ailsa Stainthorpe and Ashley Roche, helped tame the Malet attack. Whilst Jodie Lunn and Katie Wileman started to get to grips with midfield making several fantastic through balls to the on running strikers, Josie Hewson and Jess Bisby.
A late own goal was the only low point in the second half and even that was from a good header which unfortunately left the keeper standing.
A very promising display from the Belles against a strong team who are dominating the league.
Belles U16 v Scarborough U16 0 - 4 (cup)
It was an under strength Brayton Belles U16s team with key players missing that took on an inform Scarborough team. Brayton started the strongest with brilliant passing from Katie Wood, Laura Beth Richardson, Alice Priddy and Emily Bedford who made some fantastic darting runs down the wing with slide rule passing to the front line of Emma Knowles and Chloe Precious. Brayton had Scarborough on the back foot when they came close with balls cleared of the line and some terrific saves from Scarboroughs keeper to keep them in the game. There was outstanding defending from Braytons Jess Watts, Grace OFarrell, Natalie Fostern and dynamic Denika Yorke. Rachael Huggins was fantastic in goal but Scarborough broke the deadlock with a brilliant shot against the run of play beating Braytons out stretched keeper. Late in the second half Brayton ran out of steam which let in form Scarborough in to score 3 more Brayton went down 4-0 but the coaches said their team had put on the performance of the season so far and they where so proud of their girls. They would also like to thank Wayne Stephenson of B.R.S.A for the loan of their ground because Braytons pitches are unfortunately unplayable.
Brayton Belles U12 Red 1 Heworth 0
This nail-biting match could have gone either way at any point with neither side managing to break the deadlock in the first half. The second half saw Belles regroup in attack, with Emily Thomson scoring the only goal of the match following a trademark run down the right wing. Belles were unable to capitalise further, with Sophie Hudson and Anya Limbert both shooting wide, and had to hold firm at the back with player of the week Emma Tune and keeper Katie Parker putting in their usual strong performances. However, a win is a win, and Belles maintain a good position in the league.
5th January 2008
Belles U14 v Sherburn White Rose (cup)
Brayton put in a solid performance to progress through to the next round of the CYGFL U14's Cup. The first half saw a lot of commitment with Brayton dominating, but simple passing was lacking. Brayton came the closest as Kate Murphy latched on to a Jodie Lund corner only to see her effort cleared off the line.
The second half was much improved for Brayton as they started to pass and shoot and ask Sherburn a lot more questions. Any Sherburn attacks were quickly snuffed out by player of the match Megan Birch, and her fellow defenders Megan Hill and Zoe Ibbetson.This provided a solid platform for the midfield to play higher up the pitch. Antonia in goal was fairly quiet but her accurate kicking was a key factor in pressurising the Sherburn defence. Kate Murphy held the ball up well and was continually finding the oncoming runs of Jodie Lund. The tireless running of Jess Bisby, Hannah Priddy and Danielle Brown down the flanks kept Sherburn stretched.
Brayton hit the bar twice in quick succession following long Megan Birch throw ins and the goal was coming . With ten minutes to go Jess Bisby, Kate Murphy and Jodie Lund linked up neatly and the latter thumped the ball home in a well deserved victory.
All in all this was a good victory, and a little more comfortable than the 1-0 suggested.
Belles OA v Rothwell
Brayton Belles Open Age Team got off to a good start in 2008 beating Rothwell Town 1 - 5 on 06th January 08, in the prelimenary round of The Open Age Shield. The players first half performance was less convincing than usual following several weeks of rest during December, although the Belles still lead 1 -2 at half time.
A confident and strong team peformance was achieved by Brayton Belles in the 2nd half, making it difficult for Rothwell to get back into the game and the eventual outcome saw a deserved victory for the Belles. The Goal scorers were Holly Cogan with 2 goals and Jenna Rodgers, Jess Dunn and Eve Cogan 1 each. Woman of the match was awarded to Bev Horsfield.
1st December 2007
Springhead U10 0 v Brayton Belles U10 4
A brace of goals each from player of the week Rosie Hutton and Beth IAnson put the Belles into the final of the ERGL U10 cup.
The Belles were in determined mood from the kick off and with a strong gusty wind behind them they were soon putting pressure on the Springhead defence. Giorgia Bromley went close a couple of times and with Rosie Hutton and Imogen Hetherington causing problems chances were being created. Springhead were also giving everything and were unlucky when a run and shot was tipped onto the bar by keeper Beth IAnson and bounced safely away. It was Brayton who deservedly opened the scoring when Rosie Hutton got the first of her brace. The lead was extended just before half time when a goal bound free kick by Chelsea Head was well saved but Rosie Hutton was the first to react pouncing on the loose ball to fire home.
In the second half Beth IAnson swapped goalie jersey with Rhiannon Brown and was soon causing the Springhead defence problems. It wasnt long before she broke free and rifled an unstoppable shot for her first. With Rebecca Risebrow causing problems with tricky runs down the right and Gemma Robinson producing some storming runs Brayton were now controlling the game. The highlight came when Beth IAnson scored the goal of the game when player of the week Rosie Hutton produced an exquisite chip to send Beth through to hit a screamer into the bottom Corner. With Grace Priddy showing strongly in the final 10 minutes and Shannon Yorke strong in defence, The Belles deservedly wrapped up the game.
Brayton Belles U14 3 0 Easingwold
Brayton raced into a 1 0 lead after only 30 seconds when Josie Hewson played a neat one two with Sophie Taylor before firing the ball home.
The game stayed at 1 0 for the next 20 minutes with the Belles defence of Tang,Hill and Brown working hard. Lucy Parkin made the game safe on the stroke of half time after good work from Huggins and Stainthorpe allowed her space to run at the keeper.
Easingwold were in a more determined mood in the 2nd half, Player of the week Antonia Miles made several outstanding saves to keep the visitors out, 1 remarkable save saw her block the ball 3 times, one in the body and one full in the face before clearing for a corner.
Hewson and Taylor linked up again to allow Parkin to score her 2nd making the score 3- 0 to round off a good mornings work.
Fulford U12 1 Brayton Belles U12 Red 1
Belles maintained their recent run of form with another strong and determined performance against a Fulford side confident from recent successes. Fulford scored first, giving them a half time lead, but Belles came out fighting in the second half, resulting in yet another goal for Emily Thomson, making it a goal in each of the last four matches for the unstoppable winger. Belles held on under pressure with another courageous performance from Katie Parker, Ellie Naylor, Emma Tune and player of the week Zoe Ribchester in defence, with the forwards not quite managing the extra push needed for a winning goal. Belles are looking forward to the challenge of second place Poppleton next week.
24th November 2007
Belles Open age 11 Leeds Vixens 2
The Brayton Belles Open Age team formed in the summer of 2007, with players from a mixture of playing backgrounds joining the team, including some of the younger team Brayton Belles players who had reached the age of 16+.
Brayton Belles Open Age compete in the West Riding Division 2 league, along with 10 other clubs and so far this season have won 4 games, drawn 1 and lost 1. The latest win occurred at the Open Age Brayton Belles ground at Brayton College on Sunday 25th November 07 versus Leeds City Vixens.
The opening goal came just after 10 minutes with Jenna Rogers from Brayton Belles Open Age team opening the scoring, swiftly followed by a further 2 goals resulting in a hatrick for Jenna by half time and Jess Dunn/Meganne Summers both from the Belles scored a goal each, to ensure the half time score was 5 nil. The whole Brayton Belles team played some fantastic football, creating chances from play down either wing. Especially Jess Dunn who was unfortunate not to score a further handful of goals.
Great passing play continued between the whole team in the second half, where 2 further goals were scored by Jess Dunn giving her also a hatrick and the following players scoring one each: Eve Cogan, Bev Horsfield, Meganne Summers and Jenna Rogers. The final result was Brayton Belles Open Age Team 11- 2 Leeds City Vixens and the woman of the match was Jess Dunn.
Before the game on 25th November 07, a representative of the sponsors Unison, who have kindly provided sponsored kit for Brayton Belles during the 2007/2008 season, attended the match, where pictures were taken with the vast majority of the Brayton Belles Open Age team. Brayton Belles are extremely grateful to the support shown by our kit sponsors Unison, their financial backing allows us to provide vital kit to the team.
The Brayton Belles Open Age team now have 20 registered players, but like most teams some players are unable to attend each weeks game due to a mixture of other commitments and injuries, therefore we are always on the look out for new players. Anyone interested should contact Vicky Harrison on 07854 718260 and we currently train on Mondays from 18:30 to 19:30 at Brayton Community Centre.
Brayton Belles U10 0 v Cottingham Rangers 1
The Belles were for the second week running on the wrong end of a 1-0 scoreline in another pulsating match with both teams giving 100%.
Cottingham were determined to get revenge over the only side to beat them this year and were the first to exert pressure. Once again the strong defence of Chelsea Head and Rhiannon Brown with keeper Beth IAnson held out. Slowly Brayton started to get into the match with Kaitlin Doncaster, Rosie Hutton and Grace Priddy working hard. Georgia Twinkle Toes Bromley went close after some terrific runs.
The second half was equally close. With player of the week, captain Gemma Robinson driving the Belles forward and Rebecca Risebrow putting in some tricky runs down the right the Belles just couldnt break down a strong Cottingham defence. The winning goal came with just 6 minutes to go when a quick break from a Brayton corner led to a well taken goal by Cottinghams leading scorer.
The Belles threw everything at Cottingham in the final 5 minutes but it just wasnt to be. Another great game and advert for U10s girls football.
Brayton Belles U 14's 2 - Hessle Sporting A U14's 6 (11 a-side)
Despite the scoreline, Brayton continue to improve and put in thier best performance of the season against a very powerful Hessle Sporting A side. Brayton matched the visitors in most areas and at times played the better football, but is was the sheer size and power of Hessle which Brayton couldn't match.
Brayton started brightly and were left scratching their heads after conceding 2 gaols in 10 minutes due to a great low strike, and a lucky cross which was just too high to reach. Despite this Brayton kept going, and after great passing between Jess Bisby, Josie Hewson and Jody Lund, the latter tucked the ball under the Hessle keeper to cap off a terrific first half display.
At 2 - 1 , Brayton looked capable of coming back but a thunderous shot from outside the box, restored Hessles two goal advantage. Moments later, another low strike gave Hessle a 4 - 1 lead. Brayton pushed hard towards the end of the first half but couldn't capitalise on their efforts.
The second half started with Braytons best spell of the game with pressure from corners and crosses pushing Hessle back. A Kate Wileman free kick smashed the far post and rolled agonisingly along the goal line and past the other post. Against the run off play Hessle scored two quick goals taking advantage of a couple of poor Brayton clearances.
Brayton never gave up, the defence of Ailsa Stainthorpe, Haylam Tang, Jess Thompson and Jade Roche and lead magnificently by Megan Birch, scrapped and battled and gave their all. Kirsty Huggins filled at the last minute in goal and showed great agility, whereas the strikers of Kate Murphy, Jess Bisby, and Eve Dawson, kept their shape and were always alert to the pending ball, despite being swamped by big strong defenders. But it was the midfield that was most pleasing, Jody Lund and Kate Wileman both had their best games of the season, were brave in their tackles and composed on the ball, whereas the wide players Kate Merry, Josie Hewson and Lucy Parkin kept their width and worked terrifically hard both in defence and attack.
Not knowing the meaning of defeat, Brayton continued to believe. Player of the match Kate Wileman picked up the ball from inside her own half and beat two players before drilling the ball into the net and giving Brayton a deserved late consolation. All the girls earned their shirts and gave a real game to a very strong side.
Hessle Rangers U16 4 v Brayton Belles U16 3 (11 a-side)
With 6 players carrying injuries from the first whistle and no subs to call on, the Belles put on a gallant display in atrocious conditions. They withstood immense pressure playing against not only a fluent footballing side but also a force 10 gale and an upwards slope. They did brilliantly to be still in the game 2 - 1 down at half time.
Hessle however scored early in the second half and Emily Bedford had to leave the field through injury leaving the Belles to play with 10 players for the majority of the half. But with the returning Emma Knowles in inspirational form they dug deep and reduced the deficit again. Hessle again scored and teams with lesser character would have folded, but not the Belles; Emma scored her 3rd and in my opinion her best through sheer grit and determination before slotting in from an impossible angle.
The 10 Belles gave their absolute all to try and pinch the point but it was not to be.
Brayton Belles U12s Blue 5 Whitley Wolves U12 0
Belles U12s Blue side returned to action after a 3 week layoff with a vengeance a superb hat-trick by Ciara McEvoy and 2 goals from Evie Smythe proved too much for local rivals Whitley Wolves.
By half time Brayton were 3 up and had the game sewn up.
In the 2nd half the visitors began to respond gainfully and began to make inroads into the Brayton defence but to no avail as Belles unleashed 2 more goals before the end to wrap up the match and the points quite comfortably.
17th November 2007
South Cave 1 Brayton Belles U10 0
The Belles winning run came to an end against a very good South Cave team in a game that was a credit to both teams.
With the slope in their favour it was South Cave who were first to show putting together some lovely passing moves that put the Belles defence of Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head under pressure. However they held firm and with Gemma Robinson starting to get the Belles moving and with player of the week Georgia Bromley working tirelessly the Belles started to create chances. Kaitlin Doncaster went close and Grace Priddy nearly went close after a series of corners.
It was always going to take something special to break the deadlock and it came 5 minutes into the second half when a terrific run by the South Cave no. 7 ended when she finished with aplomb. The Belles were not going to give up their record easily and came fighting back. They laid siege to the South Cave goal with Rosie Hutton, Beth IAnson and Imogen Etherington all going close. South Cave were always dangerous on the break but a great performance by Shannon Yorke kept them out. The game ended with the Belles still on the attack but it was not to be this week.
Credit goes to all the players who gave 100% effort and displayed great skill and ability which was a tremendous advert for U10 football.
Stamford Bridge U12 0 Brayton Belles U12 Red 4
A storming performance from every single player gave Belles their best score of the season so far, with the promise of more to come. Player of the match Sophie Hudson opened the scoring with a lone run down the left wing, finished off with a beautifully placed strike into the corner, giving her a well deserved first goal of the season. Anya Limbert followed that with a thumping shot from short range following almost constant pressure on the Stamford goal. The second half saw Emily Thomson chip in a floating shot from the half way line, right over the goalie's head, a goal that any professional player would have been proud of. Still pressuring, Belles won a corner late in the game, with the rebound coolly converted by defender Emma Tune. Well done girls.
Hessle Rangers U14's 1 - Brayton Belles U14's 3. (11 a-side)
Brayton got a well deserved win against Hessle Rangers despite not being at their best. Brayton started very brightly. Kate Wileman and Jodie Lund dominated the midfield and Josie Hewson and Jess Bisby used the wings effectively. Early domination paid off with player of the match Kate Murphy bagging two goals within the first 15 minutes. Striker Eve Dawson came close on two occasions following powerful runs.Jodie Lund added a great strike for a third after 20 minutes and a big win looked on the cards. A mixture of Hessle showing character Brayton going to sleep prevented this from happening.
Hessle scored a great goal past a relatively quiet Poppy Brennan in goal early in the second half. Megan Birch, Ailsa Stainthorpe, Jade Roche, Kirsty Huggins, Jess Thompson and Megan Hill rotated in defence and ensured that Brayton kept the lead. Hannah Priddy came into the midfield and showed some good passing and movement and Lucy Parkin used her pace to create a couple of chances. However, Brayton will need to produce more against the top sides in the division.
Brayton Belles U16 4 v Driffield U16 1 (11 a-side)
Injury ravaged Belles earned their first win of the season against lowly Driffield.
Looking rusty after a long period without a match they let Driffield draw first blood with their first and only shot of the game after 5 minutes. There then followed a period when both teams huffed and puffed with neither having the quality to trouble either goal keeper until Grace Ofarrell popped up to score a rare and deserved equaliser before the break.
The second half was a different story. Katie Woods presence in the middle meant the 50-50's were now being won, while Jess Watts had her best game in a Brayton shirt in a long time. What followed was the Chloe Precious show, within half an hour she had ripped Driffield's defence to pieces scoring 3 times with 3 quality finishes to secure the win.
This was another great team performance by everyone and confidence should be high for next weeks game.
10th November 2007
Brayton Belles U12 Red 1 Copmanthorpe 0
Another confident performance by Belles gave them their third win of the season. Constantly pressurising the Copmanthorpe defence, shots were coming from all angles for the majority of the match. The only goal of the game came from a beautifully placed pass from defender Ellie Naylor to Zoe Ribchester in the centre who set up player of the week Emily Thomson for her second goal in two matches. Scoring chances were also made by Anya Limbert, Sammi Collier and Jessica Senior.
Springhead U10 0 Brayton Belles U10 1
The Belles were made to work extremely hard to keep their winning run going against a spirited and determined Springhead team.
The opening exchanges were closely fought with Georgia Bromley and Kaitlin Doncaster working hard to get the ball to Imogen Etherington up front. The defence of Chelsea Head and Rhiannon Brown were as solid as ever. With Gemma Robinson getting the Belles moving, chances eventually started to come. Kaitlin Doncaster and Rebecca Risebrow both went close and Rosie Hutton looked certain to score but the keeper pulled off an outstanding save.
At half time the Belles knew they were in a game and the second half mirrored the first. With Rhiannon Brown going in goal for the second half Charlotte Wiles came on in defence and although she has not played many games she was solid and dependable. Chances were few and far between in the second half however the deadlock was broken with just 5 minutes to go when Beth IAnson managed to break free and fired an unstoppable shot past the keeper. Springhead threw everything at Brayton in the last few minutes but The Belles hung on.
The result was tough on Springhead who probably deserved a point but The Belles will take heart from a fifth straight win.
Brayton Belles U14's 1 - Pinefleet U14's 1
Brayton were beaten 5-1 in the cup only a week ago by todays opponents but showed a determination and team spirit which earned them a draw, and on another day would have been enough for a win.
Early Brayton pressure paid of with Lucy Parkin feeding strike partner Eve Dawson who tucked the ball away neatly on 8 minutes. Indeed it was Eve Dawson who had Braytons best other chances of the first half showing great strength to get into striking positions and only lacking a finish to match her determination,
Brayton continued brightly, Jodie Lund and player of the match Kate Wileman dominating midfield whilst Kate Merry and Josie Hewson nullified Pinefleets star player.
6 minutes before time Pinefleet struck back, with a speculative effort which went through a sea of legs giving Poppy Brennan in goal no time to react.
Brayton pushed hard in the secong half but could not break through. Megan Birch effectively pushed into a defensive midfield role and gave the team impetus, whilst Jess Thompson and Jade Roche stood out in defence with two outstanding performances.
Jody Lund went close from a corner and a Josie Hewson ball across the goal was tantilising close to being turned in but it was not to be.
Tireless running from Lucy Parkin, a brave effort from a "thoroughly clattered" Hannah Priddy, solid perfomances from Zoe Ibbetson, Ashley Rowe and Poppy Brennan and two very versatile games in different positions for Kate Merry and Josie Hewson all added to a very pleasing Brayton performance.
Belles U14 (7 a side) 2 Copmanthorpe 0
Both teams battled hard in the first half giving the strikers very little chance to make their mark. Halem Tang (player of the match) and Megan Hill were outstanding throughout.
In the second half Brayton started to pass and move much more fluently and soon the midfield of Stainthorpe, Brown and Taylor started to dominate. Jess Bisby troubled the Copmanthorpe defence with some fine solo runs. It was striker Katie Murphy who eventually broke the dead lock guiding a cross from Brown into the Copmanthorpe goal. Bisby then sealed the match with an impressive twisting dribble splitting the defence and shooting into the bottom corner past a disbelieving keeper.
Keeper Higgins made some good saves late on to keep a clean sheet for the Belles, who now sit second in the league
3rd November 2007
York RI U12 0 Brayton Belles U12 Red 1
This Belles team continues to go from strength to strength, taking on each match with a little more confidence. The first half saw Belles piling the pressure on the York defence, but not quite managing to find the back of the net. At the other end, counter attacks were ably dealt with as always by Ellie Naylor and Emma Tune, with a fine display of courageous 'keeping from captain and player of the week Katie Parker. Getting to half time with a clean sheet against this higher placed opposition spurred the Belles on, resulting in a beautifully placed goal from Emily Thomson after carving through the York defence. With Belles closing ranks at the back for the rest of the game, there was no way through for York, and Belles took the points. Belles are now separated from York only on goal difference, in 4th place in the league.
Pinefleet Wolfreton U10 1 v Brayton Belles U10 4
A brilliant second half performance saw The Belles get revenge for their defeat to Pinefleet in the first match of the season.
The first half however, was extremely tight with both teams working hard and competing well. Like the first game there was nothing in it as they tried to unlock 2 stubborn defences. The Belles back 3 of Rhainnon Brown, Chelsea Head and sweeper Rosie Hutton held firm. Keeper Beth IAnson also dealt with anything that did come through. The midfield of Georgia Bromley and Imogen Etherington worked hard to make chances for Grace Priddy. As the first half closed however the Belles started to get on top and only a brilliant save from the outstanding Pinefleet goalkeeper kept out an Etherington shot.
Changes were made for the second half with Beth IAnson moving out of goal, Rosie Hutton moving into midfield, Rebecca Risebrow on the right wing, Kaitlin Doncaster moved to the sweeper position and Rhiannon Brown went in Goal and these changes soon paid off. Beth IAnsons power and pace soon led to a smart shot which again the keeper saved, however her hands were still stinging when Rosie Hutton broke through to open the scoring. Not to be out done Beth IAnson soon made it 2 and shortly afterwards Rosie Hutton made it 3. Pinefleet were not to be outdone and fought back bravely but player of the week Rhiannon Brown save everything that was thrown at her. Not to be outdone by her teammate, IAnson powered a shot to make it 4 but with 10 minutes remaining Pinefleet derservedly pulled one back but Shannon Yorle in defence kept out any further attacks.
The win now puts The Belles in the semi-final of the cup and confidence is high after 4 straight wins. Another great team effort.
Brayton Belles u12s blue 2 Poppleton tigers 0
The top two in the under twelve's league locked horns for the first time this season, with both teams unbeaten so far, this was always going to be a close encounter, more so as the visitors finished runners up to Belles Blue last season and would be out for revenge, but not, so as the home side dealt with the early onslaught.
First blood went Blues way 15 minutes into the first half with a stunning effort by Ciara McAvoy from close range to ease the nerves, however Poppleton came out in the second half looking not to go home empty handed as they mounted numerous attacks on the Belles defence.
Defenders Forth, Argyle and player of the week Amy Wilson kept them at bay, striker Katie Todd latched on to a route one kick from Belles keeper to wrap up the game and open a gap at the top of the league.
With Belles Blue 100% record intact the team showed once again that they deserve to be where they are but know that the rest of the league are just waiting for a slip up but for now they can enjoy the moment.
Poppleton U14's 2 Brayton Belles U14's 2
Brayton thoroughly deserved something from this game in which a full outfield team of U13's all deserve credit for their 100% effort. Brayton new girl in goal Antonia had a great debut demonstrating bravery and a safe pair of hands.
Hannah Priddy and Kate Murphy linked up well and along with the "never say die" attitude of player of the match Kirsty Huggins, all put in outstanding performances.
The first goal was Braytons. Hannah Priddy played the ball into Kate Murphy who played it neatly round the corner to the onrushing Kirsty Huggins to fire home her first of the season.
Brayton nearly made it two when Sophie Taylor continued her run of form with a delightful pass only to see Kirsty Huggins shot go narrowly wide.
Megan Hill, Ashley Rowe and Danielle Brown were all fully commited to the cause but were unstuck each side of the half time whistle by a lively Poppleton attack.
Brayton continued to press and move of the game saw a great pass into space from Hannah Priddy for Kate Murphy to latch on to. Rather than shoot at a narrow angle, she turned and found the run of Kirsty Huggins only for the post to save Poppleton. Futher efforts from Murphy, Rowe and Priddy all went close and Poppleton held out, until a Hannah Priddy corner was chased down at the near post by Kate Murphy and in the ensuing scramble the ball was turned in by a Poppleton defender.
The team pushed for the winner, with the Poppleton keeper pulling off a fine save from Kate Murphys feet, before it was Braytons turn to defend with the team owing thanks to Ashley Rowe and Megan Hill for great defending in the last two minutes.
In summary a good game of football and a lot of Brayton positives.
BELLES U14 V Pinefleet U14 1 - 5
The Belles crashed out of the East Riding league cup in this pulsating end to end game.
Both teams gave 100% effort and played some highly entertaining football. However it was Pinefleet who took the lead with a quick volley of passing which left the Belles defence in tatters giving stand in keeper Jess Thompson no chance of saving a well struck shot. Although the Belles defence of Stainthorpe, Merry, Tang, Ibbertson and Roche held firm throughout the first half an error gave Pinefleet a second goal and the Belles an up hill struggle.
The second half started with with Brayton going for a quick goal and within 40 seconds they had pulled one back. Kate Wileman slid a superbly weighted ball into the path of Jodie Lund who fired a blinding shot straight out of the top draw and past a sprawling keeper. This lifted the Belles and attempts from Dawson, Bisby, Hewson and Parker all came close to a much deserved equaliser. Pinefleet then scored a desperate goal to put the game beyond Braytons reach and two late goals secured the win.
Highlights for the Belles were tireless performances especially from Megan Birch (player of the match) and Lucy Parker who battled hard throughout a gruelling match.
Next week these two teams meet again in the league.
27th October 07
Flamborough 1 10 Brayton Belles U14
Brayton Claimed there first U14 11 aside win away to Flamborough with an outstanding team performance.
The first 15 mins saw both teams coming close but Brayton always looked the more likely to score and deservedly took the lead when Josie Hewson fired home to open the scoring, Megan Birch and Jodie Lund quickly made it 3 0 and now the Belles were on fire looking to score every time they pushed forward.
Player of the week awards went to the Jodie Lund who grabbed another goal and Katie Merry for an outstanding display in the centre of defence. Birch and Hewson grabbed another goal each with Eve Dawson scoring her first goal in Brayton colours.
Katie Wileman showed some cool finishing to grab a 2nd half hatrick capping a fine display upfront, her 3rd goal coming after a fine run down the right before firing a bullet past the keeper. Megan Hill and Danielle Brown making there 11 aside debuts played well in defence, Priddy,Thompson,Stainthorpe, Parkin and Bisby all worked hard in this outstanding display
Brayton Belles U10 3 v Driffield U10 0
The Belles good run continued with a hard fought win over a battling and hard working Driffield team.
With a couple of wins under their belts The Belles started confidently with the midfield of Georgia Bromley and player of the week Kaitlin Doncaster working hard to set up Grace Priddy for some early chances. Grace had to leave the field with a bleeding nose and was replaced by Rebecca Risebrow who made some good runs on the right. Driffield were working hard to keep The Belles out, but the deadlock was broken on eight minutes when a brilliant solo run from skipper Gemma Robinson which started in her own half, ended when she calmly placed the ball past the Driffield keeper. Driffield came back, but any attacks were repelled by Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head with keeper Beth IAnson rarely tested. As the first half was drawing to a close, Georgia Bromley finished off a slick move by scoring her first goal of the season.
The second half saw Rhiannon Brown in goal and Beth IAnson move up front and Beth very nearly scored with her first touch. Emily Murphy making her debut this season made some crunching tackles in defence as again The Belles pressed forward. It was no surprise when Beth IAnson finished off another fine move to make it 3 0. The Belles continued to dominate and Kaitlin Doncaster was unlucky to see her shot rebound from a post.
All in all it was another good display from an improving team with everyone contributing to a real team effort.
13th October 07
TAKE THAT!
Cottingham 0 Brayton Belles U10s 1
Pardon the pop song puns but last year most of this Under 10s team were playing in the only available U 11s league. They were told to have a little Patience after not winning a single game. Now in the East Riding Under 10s league having no excuses they took on the league leaders Cottingham. The Belles stunned Cottingham from the start as they let their football Shine, with the formidable defence group of keeper Beth IAnson, defenders Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head with sweeper/captain Gemma Robinson there was no way through for Cottingham. However the Belles midfielders, Giorgia Bromley, Rosie Hutton, Kaitlyn Doncaster pressure and work rate meant goal chances for strikers Grace Priddy and Imogen Hetherington throughout the 1st half. Cottingham needed to Pray Everything Changes for them. It didnt and with player of the week Rosie Hutton making some superb tackling and dispossession in midfield areas this led to the 1st goal early in the 2nd half. The rest of the game continued in the same style with Cottingham having very little chances, the Belles could have and should have scored more but they now believe they are Back for Good.
Brayton Belles U12 Red 1 v Whitley Wolverines U12 1
Following a stunning display against the odds last week when the Reds came agonisingly close to stealing a point from their much fancied club mates in the Blue team, confidence was high going into this game. One nil down at half time, Belles dug deep and played with a new found determination and self belief, constantly pushing for that vital goal. Their patience and persistence was eventually rewarded with a goal mouth scuffle giving last weeks player of the week, Zoe Ribchester, her first ever league goal. With heads up, Belles continued to push the Whitley defence until the final whistle, with player of the week Emily Thomson once again giving her all in support of Sammie Collier, Sophie Hudson and Anya Limbert, who were all attacking the goal with renewed vigour. Another good performance from the whole team.
Tickton U16 2 v Brayton Belles U16
The Belles put in a battling performance to earn their first point of the season. Attitude was first class, every player working their socks off doing their bit for the team.
After early exchanges Tickton took the lead and could have made it two, but for heroic defending by the insperational Katie Wood. Belles settled and creating several chances before Chloe Precious scored an absolute peach. Tickton regained the lead just before half time.
In the second period both sides had chances, it was pleasing to see the Belles starting to gel. They created several chances and are starting to get the grip of 11 aside football. Emma Knowles worked especially hard for the team deserving her equalising goal midway through the second half.
There were a couple of heart stopping moments at the end but the Belles deservedly held on. MOM was Lotti Johnson who was tireless on the left whilst Emily Bedford impressed in her first ever game.
Scarborough Ladies U14 v 3 Brayton Belles U14 2
Brayton can consider themselves very unlucky not to have come away with something from this game as they played the better football in a very entertaining game.
However Brayton found themselves 2-0 down after 10 minutes from Scarborough corners.
Brayton responded well in open play, with Jodie Lund and Kate Wileman pulling the strings and Jess Bisby and Lucy Parkin working hard to create problems up front. A Jodie Lund shot was only half cleared and Lucy Parkin opened her account for the season with a well taken goal to make it 2-1 at half time.
Brayton dominated the second half with Kate Merry, Josie Hewson both making good runs down the flanks. It was through persistence that Brayton eventually equalised - Kate Wileman chasing down a Scarborough clearance and slotting home. The Brayton defence lead by Megan Birch was excellent all afternoon in open play, but again the undoing of Brayton was failure to deal with the ariel ball and Scarborough re-took the lead.
Player of the match Josie Hewson nearly equalised two minutes from time with a fabulous run down the left flank but it was not to be. All in all it was a very pleasing performance and the U14's are improving with every game.
Fulford U12s 1 v Brayton Belles u12s Blue 3
Brayton made an amazing fight back in the second half coming from a goal down at half time to secure maximum points.
Fulford made the match very difficult for Brayton to get any sort of control throughout, as the second half began Belles Blue showed their metal and began to grind their opponents down.
Ami Wilson nipped in to square the match, then player of the week Evie Smythe jinked her way through the stubborn Fulford defence to put Belles in front for the first time.
Ciara McEvoy completed the fight back with a short range effort which gave the keeper no chance.
Despite the final outcome Fulford never let their heads drop and kept plugging away at Braytons defence to try and salvage something out of the game, but credit to Braytons back line as they held firm to the end to come away knowing they had been tested to the limit in this pulsating match.
6th October 2007
Easingwold 2 - 4 Brayton Belles U14
Brayton Belles U14 7 aside put in a fantastic performance to beat Easingwold 4 - 2,
The game started at a frantic pace with Easingwold taking the lead after 5 minutes, Brayton responded with player of the week Jess Bisby picking the ball up on the half way line and firing home a unstoppable shot.
The first half was end to end stuff with Easingwold taking the lead for a 2nd time, Kate Murhy and Sophie Taylor were causing all sorts of problems and a goal mouth scramble resulted in Easingwold scoring an own goal to put the scores level.
Brayton piled on the pressure with Bisby latching on to a long clearance from Jess Thompson and with a cool finish made the score 3 - 2 at half time.
In the 2nd half Brayton were made to defend with Kirsty Huggins, Megan Hill and Danielle Brown outstanding in keeping Easingwold at bay, Kate Murphy made a fantastic save to keep the Belles in front.
Despite a late penalty miss Brayton looked in control and finished the game in style when a pass from Sophie Taylor allowed Danielle Brown to score her first goal for the club.
BELLES U14 1 - 5 AFC Preston (11 a side)
Brayton started this match in a lethargic mood but somehow took the lead after 5 minutes from a quick move involving Kate Merry and Josie Hewson, finished off with a stunning shot by Jodie Lunn. The Belles then came under constant pressure from a strong Tickton side. However Braytons' defence of Birch, Roche, Tang and Stainthorpe and good keeping from Ibbertson held strong until finally Tickton equalised and then took the lead just before half time.
The second half saw Brayton eventually wake up and suddenly the match swung the other way. Strong passing and composure on the ball from Lunn and Wileman and darting runs from Parker, Priddy and Hill put the opposition under pressure. The game was decided during an unlucky few seconds when Kate Wileman hammered the ball against the Tickton bar the ball bounced down onto the line and spun back into play. A relieved Tickton picked the ball up and counter attacked for the first time. A half hearted shot squeezed its way under the Belles keeper to give them a 3 - 1 lead. Two more late goals finished the Belles off.
The Belles certainly learnt a lesson this week and need to start brightly away to Scarborough next Saturday if they are to get their first win of the season.
Brayton Belles U10 8 v Goole Town Girls 0
The Belles bounced back from the unfortunate defeat last week, to put in a great team performance to overcome a plucky Goole Town team.
The Belles were ahead in only 2 minutes when Rosie Hutton jinked her way through and finished clinically. This was shortly followed by a tremendous run down the left by player of the week Grace Priddy who finished with a left foot strike into the corner to open up her account for the Belles. Goole Town came back from this early set back but solid defending from Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head made sure that any attacks were snuffed out. It was the Belles however who extended their lead when Rosie Hutton scored with an audacious chip. Skipper Gemma Robinson crowned an excellent all round display by scoring close to half time.
In the second half Beth IAnson swapped her goalie jersey with Rhiannon Brown and soon opened up her account. With substitute defenders Shannon Yorke and Charlotte Wyles again keeping Goole at bay and Kaitlyn Doncaster and Imogen Etherington putting together some lovely passing moves enabling Beth IAnson to complete a well taken hat-trick. A good day was finished off when Imogen Etherington got a well earned goal after going close a number of times.
The Belles also won the friendly afterwards with great performances from Hannah Collier, Amy Thomas, and Rachael keil-Isaac.
29th September 2007
Brayton Belles U12 Red 2 v Heworth U12 0
Belles took their chances this week to make up for a disappointing loss away to Poppleton last week, producing a confident and competent performance against their old rivals. Belles pulled ahead after no more than 2 minutes of play, Sammi Collier making no mistake in finishing the first attacking move of the game with a thumping close range shot giving her first ever league goal. Belles kept the pressure on throughout, with storming performances at the back from player of the week Emma Tune, Zoe Ribchester, Ellie Naylor and Jessica Senior, leaving keeper and birthday girl Katie Parker with little to do. Up front, Sophie Hudson, Emily Thomson and Anya Limbert all had chances, and their efforts paid off when a delighted Limbert put away her first league goal.
Stamford Bridge U12 0 Brayton Belles U12 Blue 4
Goals in the first half by midfielders Amy Wilson and Ciara Mcevoy calmed Braytons nerves as at times the home side where proving a tough nut to crack. Brayton starting the second half in more determined mood and began to unlock Stamfords defence with several attempts on goal but the keeper was in excellent form and kept the Belles at bay until second half sub Izzy Forth steamed in on goal to make it three. For the second match in a row Melissa Till latched onto a pinpoint corner to wrap up the game and keep Braytons hard earned hundred percent record in tact. Player of the week was awarded to Laura Backhouse for a solid all-round performance in defence as she denied the opposition any chances at goal
Pinefleet U10 2 v Brayton Belles U10 1
The Belles were desperately unlucky to lose this closely fought contest between 2 evenly matched teams.
There was nothing to choose between the teams in the first half as Rhiannon Brown and Chelsea Head held firm in defence and Beth IAnson pulling off some superb saves. Midfielders Georgia Bromley and Imogen Hetherington made some promising runs, supported by Grace Priddy up front. Captain Gemma Robinson work tirelessly, covering every inch of the pitch and making some intelligent runs forward. It was the Belles who made the breakthrough however, right on the stroke of halftime. A move sent player of the week Rebecca Peg racing down the right where she beat 2 players before cutting in and firing an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner.
In the second half Rhiannon Brown went in goal and made some crucial stops. This allowed Beth IAnson to use her strength up front. Shannon Yorke came on and defended resolutely and Kaitlin Doncaster showed some neat touches in midfield. Beth IAnson was causing problems and went close on a number of occasions before Pinefleet eventually pulled one back. The game ebbed and flowed however it was Pinefleet who scored right at the end of normal time. In the minute of stoppage time The Belles swarmed forward and Gemma Robinson struck the bar with Beth IAnson inches away from the re-bound.
Coach Ashley Heeley said he was proud of the way the team played in their first league game of the season.
Copmanthorpe U14's 2 Brayton Belles U14's 3
A last kick winner from Kate Wileman gave Brayton a well deserved win at
Companthorpe. Showing great feet and a cool head the midfielder glided into the
box to smash home her second of the game.
Brayton looked bright throughout, but against the run of play Companthorpe
finished off thier only two chances in the first half to go 2-0 up. Good
efforts from Poppy Brennan, player of the match Danielle Brown and Kate Merry were
thwarted until Jade Roche squeezed a shot past the Copmanthorpe keeper just
before half time.
The second half saw more Brayton dominance and the opposition attacks were
well dealt with by Braytons defense of Jade Roche, Zoe Ibbetson and Megan
Hill. Kate Murphy, Eve Dawson and Kate Wileman linked up superbly for the
equaliser with 5 minutes to go.
Brayton owed a pat on the back to Megan Hill for some tenacious defending in
the latter minutes. Great kicking from 2nd half keeper Poppy Brennan, kept
pressure on Companthorpe, with the tireless Kate Murphy, the strength of Kate
Merry, good crossing from Eve Dawson, and a great finish from Kate Wileman
proving enough to secure Braytons first win of the season.
Hull City Ladies U16 6 - 2 Brayton Belles U16
Considering the majority of this Belles team were playing mini football last season, add the fact that their first competitive 11 a side match was away to arguably the best team in the league who dropped just one point last season. The Belles can hold their heads high and they came out of the game with great credit.
Every player gave 110%, they competed and matched their more experienced opponents and weren't overawed by the occasion. they took the lead when Emma Knowles broke free before driving the ball beautifully into the net. Unfortunately they let Hull back in by conceding sloppily straight from the kick off. Hull then took the lead through a hotly disputed goal when every man and his dog apart from the ref saw a Hull player handle the ball in the build up.
The Belles hit back and Laura Richardson slotted in after great work from Emma. Hull scored again to make it 3-2 at half time.
In the second half the Belles kept battling with MOM Danika Yorke outstanding at the back and Rachael Huggins having a great game in goal. They did carve out one or two opprtunities and caused problems.
Hull's greater experience and composure on the ball took it's toll, as they scored 3 more goals. a score line that flattered the home side and with the Belles coming out of the game with alot more positives than negatives.
The U16's are looking to strengthen their squad by 1-2 players, ideally with competitive experience. if you feel you fit the bill tel: 01757 611113 for more information.
22nd Sept 07
Brayton Belles U12 Blue 5 Copmanthorpe 0
Brayton continued with their excellent start to the season with a comfortable win against a depleated Copmanthorpe side. A brace of goals from Evie Smythe and one each from Ciara McEvoy and Chloe Parkin wrapped up the match before half time.
The visitors came back at Brayton in the second half but midway through the half Smythe popped up once again to complete her hat trick and see off any threat from Copmanthorpe may have posed.
Brayton Belles U14's 0 Malet Lambert U14s 6
The newly formed Brayton Belles U14 11 a side team learned some valuable lessons against a strong and well orgainised Malet Lambert side. With this being the first ever game of 11 a side played by this team, their hard work and effort were not quite enough. Malet Lambert used their greater experience using width effectively and mounted attack after attack. Malet scored 3 goals in each half and dealt with any Brayton attacks well. Debuts were given to both Kate Merry and Josie Howson who both showed good commitment and they will be valuable additions to the side.
Brayton Belles 7 Westend Ladies 1
Brayton Belles (open age) continued a promising start to the season with a convincing victory over Westend on Sunday.
Newly formed Brayton scored early and, once settled, looked much stronger than the side from Huddersfield.
Thundering runs down both wings, and some good movement in midfield helped Brayton to a five goal lead by half term.
Solid at the back, Brayton conceded just one goal and never really looked like scoring more than that.
The final score was 7-1, with goals from Holly Cogan (2), Eve Cogan, Leah Rogers, Rachael Deighton, Jenna Rogers and Bev Horsfield.
Man of the match: Vicky Harrison
This Sunday, Brayton take on Bradford City at Bradford, in the West Riding Cup.
15th September 2007
Brayton Belles U12 Red 0 Fulford 0
The Belles Reds first match of the new season was a clear statement of intent to provide their opponents with serious competition. Missing the regular goalkeeper, Emily Thomson stepped in with a courageous display of proactive keeping, ably supported by new girls Emma Tune, Ellie Naylor and Caitlin Braithwaite in defense. At the other end, Zoe Ribchester, Sophie Hudson, Anya Limbert and Sammi Collier ran their socks off making play with Hannah Ryan up front. For a newly formed team, this was a promising performance which was so nearly a win, with a short range shot from Collier creeping briefly over the line out of sight of the referee. Let's hope for even better next week.
York RI 1 Brayton Belles U12 blue 2
Brayton had a tough start to the new campaign, but despite wholesale changes to the team, they held their own against a very useful York side.
Belles opened their account minutes from the end of the first when Melissa Till latched onto a well taken corner. York RI piled on the pressure in the second half and where rewarded with an equaliser five minutes after the restart. Brayton survived a string of attacks from the opposition when a draw seemed inevitable Evie Smythe popped with an absolute peach of a strike from twenty yards out, to settle the match and seal the points for the Belles.
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