A frustrating battle

On Saturday, Newton hosted Tavistock and Launceston on an unseasonably bright sunny day in November. Newton knew this would be a tight game for them, but they were hoping to come out on top. From the first whistle, Newton looked composed and moved the ball well, pressing high up the pitch, putting immediate pressure on Tavistock’s defence, who tried their best to disrupt the rhythm of play.

Newton built through the midfield with player of the match Harriet Ellis linking up well with Jane Carr, Jenna Disbury and Eleanor Manley working together to help Newton maintain control of the play and move the ball up the pitch. Newton created several half-chances in attack, with Aimee Scott and Nikki Hobbs combining well and were kept out by some fine saves by Tavistock’s keeper.

Tavistock had a few forays into Newton’s D, however, Newton were well organised at the back with Nancy Ellis, Sophie Gregory and Sara Ellis making several key interceptions to prevent Tavistock from scoring, with Rosie Carpenter producing several fine saves to keep it 0-0 going into half time.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Newton continuing to push for the opener but unable to break through Tavistock’s stubborn defence. However, against the run of play, Tavistock capitalised on a rare counterattack to take the lead midway through the half. Despite the setback, Newton responded positively, pushing numbers forward and forcing several short corners, but the equaliser just wouldn’t come, with the match ending 1-0 to Tavistock and Launceston.

Whilst the result was disappointing, the performance was full of positives. Newton showed determination, teamwork, and skill throughout, with every player giving maximum effort until the final whistle.