October 17th 2025. u11 girls in National cup action.

The Wolverhampton girls put in a strong and spirited performance on Friday evening at the Lilleshall National Sports Centre, continuing their development and showing plenty of promise despite a tough scoreline, but ultimately ran out of steam after an excellent start. Despite the result it was undoubtedly a great night of football and a brilliant effort from the girls, who gave everything from the first whistle to the last. Our first half performance was excellent and no-one could really argue that the 0-0 half time score was the least Wolverhampton deserved for their spirited performance against well-organised and far more experienced opponents.

Our team were keeping a strong defensive shape which constantly frustrated North Shropshire during that period but as the game began to open up in the second half it became increasingly more difficult to maintain a high line and we were forced to drop further and further back into defence which invited even more pressure. Summer scored a superb goal and constantly threatened whenever she had the ball but chances were few and far between and a couple of unlucky deflections and a wonder strike helped North Shropshire eventually take the game beyond us. The 5-1 margin of victory wasn't a true reflection of how competitive this match really was for long periods, however, and despite the final result we must not be too disheartened. The girls showed great teamwork and determination across the pitch throughout and losing a game is all part of their development. There is a marked difference between the

7-a-side format, where their confidence and chemistry shine through and the larger extended format used in the National Cup competitions, and they must now learn to embrace it.

Squad:

Poppy, Josie, Olivia, Izzy, Clara, Mila, Harman, Isla, Summer, Jessica, Elyssia, Sienna.