In an exciting and tense affair the University of Birmingham Women’s 1st team secured a 12-9 win against the University of Edinburgh Women’s 1st team. Both teams came into the game with the same form of three defeats and three wins so it was always going to be an interesting and competitive match up.
Birmingham Lions took the early impetus in the match and after nine minutes were already 4-0 up. The first goal was reflective of Birmingham’s positive start as teammates Elizabeth Hamshere and Rosalind Baynham combined to fantastic effect with Baynham finishing with an impressive effort into the top corner.
The goal fest continued, as by the 22nd minute a further four goals had been scored leaving the score at 7-1. At this stage Edinburgh called their first time out, a decision which proved to be a crucial turning point in the development of the match. The momentum shifted in favour of Edinburgh after the time out and they went on to score four successive goals. The Danger Woman (player number 10) contributed towards much of Edinburgh’s positive attacking play. She showed accomplished footwork and movement throughout the match, thus resulting in her scoring an impressive 6 goals by the full-time whistle.
Concerningly, Birmimgham allowed Edinburgh to come back into the game leading to a nerve-wracking final few minutes with only one goal in it at 10-9. However, two goals in the final few moments meant Birmingham saw out the game in which they deserved to edge. Hamshere and Baynham provided much of the offensive quality for Birmingham with a notable five goals between them. In such a tight and competitive game it was also moments of remarkable defending that tipped the balance in the Lion’s favour and Fran Cumming, the keeper, pulled off a collection of pivotal saves which maintained Birmingham’s lead.
The result leaves Birmingham joint top, and based on this game it is a fair to say that the team have made an excellent start to the season. Next up they face Loughborough Women’s 1st team in what could be an intense game. A similar team performance to that which Birmingham exhibited at Metchley will give them a very good chance of success.
