Southgate 4 – 0 Ipswich

Match Report : Allan Dick

Southgate’s season got off to a flying start on Saturday with a convincing 4-0 victory against Ipswich.

There were first league appearances for Sally Bradley, Jess Olorenshaw, Molly Smith and Lorna Cruickshank. Southgate began the game in a positive manner, linking up well and creating early chances on goal. Ipswich defended well and had their goalkeeper to thank for a number of saves made through the first and second quarters.

Just before half time, Ipswich began to get a foot hold in the game and generated attacks that fortunately did not result in a shot on goal.
‘Gate went into half time having not been able to take advantage of the numerous chances but buoyed by the fact they had kept the opposition out of the game for most of the first half.

Southgate finally struck in the 42nd minute when a penalty corner sticks from Elisa Filarmonico got through the Ipswich goalkeeper and over the line. The game became a bit scrappy in the immediate aftermath and there were plenty of ‘questionable’ tackles. However, only Southgate were punished, and started the final quarter with 10 players after Sofia Martin received a green card for a stick tackle.

The final quarter saw the game become more open as Southgate, after getting through the suspension, went for the winner and Ipswich came searching for an equaliser. The Suffolk side had opportunities in open play that were well defended, and also a penalty corner that was well saved by new signing Molly Smith in goal.

Another new signing, Jess Olorenshaw, thought that she had scored to extend the lead after some great build up play but the goal was not given, after it was apparently touched by a Southgate arm on the way in.

Finally, in the last 5 minutes, Southgate’s pressure paid off; firstly Charlotte Childs finished off another well created move with a thunderous strike. This was followed two minutes later with a wicked back hand strike across the goal by Grace O’Malley-Kumar. Finally, Emma McIntyre brought the score to 4-0 with a well finished move that seemed to reflect the game realistically.

Thanks to Ipswich for the competitive match and hospitality. We look forward to welcoming them to Snakes Lane later in the season.

Southgate now look ahead to next Saturday where they will host Barnes, who started with a 2-0 win last weekend, it should make for an exciting encounter.