Match Report NMJFC U11 Girls vs West Didsbury and Chorlton AFC U11s Nightha 29/11/25

Despite the rain, and the girls not being at full strength this week, but from the first whistle the girls played with determination and spirit. Annabella set the tone from the back, starting confidently in goal with sharp saves, decisive movement off her line, and calm distribution that turned defence into early attacking opportunities.

Stevie patrolled the left side with maturity beyond her years, showing excellent control and threading clever passes into the middle. She pushed forward when the moment was right but never forgot her defensive duties, working in tandem with Ava on the right.

Ava was a defensive anchor, putting in strong tackles, staying vocal, and reading danger superbly as she intercepted wave after wave of attacks. Together, they provided a solid platform for the team to build from.

Paige was a constant threat on the pitch. Her footwork was electric and her forward runs had the unstoppable force of a steam train. Florence thrived on the left, dropping deep to collect the ball from Annabella before driving up the pitch with confidence, gliding past defenders. On the right, Poppy D showed her versatility – dropping into the middle when needed, then bursting forward into attack.

Up front, Millie’s movement gave New Mills constant momentum. She drifted wide, dropped deep for the ball, and let off several dangerous shots. The breakthrough came when Poppy D intercepted the ball on the halfway line and powered her finish into the back of the net. The second followed through Paige, who won a brilliant tackle, danced past two defenders, and slotted home. The third was a joy to watch: Paige and Millie combining in tight spaces, exchanging slick one-twos before Millie drove the ball into the net.

Perhaps the pass of the half came from Martha – darting through defenders with effortless skill before squaring the ball to Florence, who took her time, advanced on the keeper, and finished with confidence. Poppy J added her usual calm strength, holding the ball well and linking play with Millie, Paige and Martha. By halftime, the New Mills girls were fully in control.

The second half brought more of the same determination. Annabella remained solid, distributing well from the back. Stevie, even carrying a slight injury, showed impressive resolve, battling for every ball.

Ava continued to tidy up defensively and pushed forward with purpose when space opened. Poppy J stayed relentless in midfield, pressing immediately every time the ball came out from the keeper, while Martha put on a powerful display with numerous shots and surging runs.

Paige came close several times before finally unleashing an unstoppable strike into the top corner, a goal worthy of highlight reels.

Poppy D covered almost every blade of grass, sprinting to the byline and helping drive the team forward.

Player of the Week went to Florence, though it could genuinely have been awarded to any of the girls after such a performance. Florence delivered one of her best games yet – constantly wanting the ball, dribbling superbly, and surging forward with real intent. It was an excellent display from her, and an outstanding team performance overall from every girl who stepped onto the pitch

⚽️🖤💛⚽️

#upthemillers