The first team went into their varsity game as the underdogs, with Northumbria’s first-team sitting two leagues above in the Northern Premier. The game began with Northumbria on the front foot. Goalkeeper and captain Hannah made some brilliant saves to keep the scoreline 0-0 for the first 25 minutes. A mistake from Newcastle’s defence though meant that Northumbria had the opportunity to make it 1-0. Northumbria then went on to score two more goals in the first half, but Newcastle did well to keep the scoreline at that. Half time, 3-0 to Northumbria.
Newcastle came out much stronger in the second half and had some great stints in possession. The girls had a good few attempts on target, but Northumbria’s goalkeeper managed to keep them at bay. Eventually, the ball fell to Elena who was waiting in a great position in the box to slot the ball home and bring one back for Newcastle! Northumbria did eventually score another, but it was met with a fantastic goal from Newcastle. Ella played a lovely ball into Amelia who took it around the defenders and the goalkeeper to make it 4-2. Newcastle had some more chances towards the end of the game, including a few crossbar hits, but the final score ended up 4-2. Newcastle gave Northumbria a brilliant game both to play and watch and should be immensely proud of themselves for their efforts.
Girl of the game - Hannah Speake.
Lucy Payne
The second team faced a difficult challenge against Northumbria’s 2s, who currently sit two leagues above them in BUCS. The girls were up for the game and this was evident from the start, with NUWFC dominating the ball and the first goal soon came. Lillie Raths had her shot well saved and Ellie Vayro was there to follow up, hitting the ball first time firmly into the bottom corner. Vayro then got her second soon after from a beautifully worked free-kick. Emma Saville put a great ball into the box from just in front of the halfway line and Vayro did well to header it past the keeper. At halftime NUWFC looked fully in control. 2-0.
The second half continued like the first, with the girls pushing for more goals. Isla Romer-Lee was causing lots of problems on the left side and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet. Dana Sumait then did well to beat the defender and score our 3rd goal. The 4th goal was then scored by Lauren Waters, following up a saved shot. Later on in the game, Alice Jackson made it 5 with a well-struck shot. A great team performance to see NUWFC win 5-0.
Girl of the game - Ellie Vayro.
Kate Hardy