Match Report NMJFC U11 Girls vs Richmond Rover U11 Tigresses 15/11/25

It was Silent Supporters Week this week, and although we always love the backing from our parents, this was the girls’ moment to let their own voices fill the pitch. They rose to the challenge brilliantly, communicating with confidence and showing impressive teamwork from start to finish.

We started today’s match with Poppy D in goal. She was nervous, but you wouldn’t have known it –her composure was outstanding. She pulled off a string of excellent saves, including a superb one-handed tip over the bar, and collected everything cleanly. Her long drop kicks were a real asset and consistently set New Mills off on the front foot.

At the back, Annabella and Ava formed a solid defensive pairing. Both talked well, kept their shape, and knew exactly when to push up and when to recover. Ava produced some strong interceptions and wasn’t afraid to drive the ball from defence into attack, especially down the left side. Annabella read the game beautifully, stepping into the middle when needed, timing her challenges perfectly, and making several vital clearances.

Across midfield and attack, the energy was relentless. Millie worked hard on the right, making positive forward runs and dropping back to support the defence when needed. Paige was strong and determined in the centre, getting a shot on goal and constantly showing for the ball, helping transition play into attack. On the left, Florence was everywhere - up and down the wing like a yo-yo - linking play neatly and threading through balls to Jessica. Up top, Jessica made excellent runs and struck some dangerous shots, she made her presence known, and was always a threat.

From the bench, the impact was just as strong. Poppy J held the ball up brilliantly and showed growing confidence driving forward, even getting a good shot away in the first half. Her link-up play was smart and controlled. Stevie brought strength and composure, using her body well and moving the ball neatly through the middle of the pitch. Martha added pace and determination, with sharp passing and committed running at the top end of the field.

The second half carried the same intensity. There were more excellent saves in goal and determined efforts with the kick-outs. Ava and Annabella remained rock-solid at the back, continuing to push forward with strong runs. Poppy J never stopped running, constantly creating chances. There was lovely link-up play between Poppy D and Paige, resulting in a beautiful effort on goal from Paige that almost lobbed the keeper from half way line, while Florence combined well to build attacks. Millie dug deep, making strong challenges and good attempts, and Jessica’s movement and connection through midfield to the wings kept the team buzzing. Stevie drove forward with purpose, and Martha seemed to be everywhere at once!

Player of the Day could have gone to a few of our girls again today, but it was deservedly awarded to Annabella. Her reading of the game, key interceptions, brave clearances, and ability to turn defence into attack made her a standout performer.

A fantastic display all round - from communication to teamwork to sheer effort. The girls did themselves proud.

⚽️🖤💛⚽️

#upthemillers