Match Report NMJFC U12 Girls vs West Didsbury & Chorlton AFC U12 Nightha – Home 03/10/2026
There are some matches where you can feel a team growing in confidence, belief and togetherness, and this was certainly one of those occasions.
Up against a team who had previously lifted our very own New Mills tournament trophy, the girls produced what was undoubtedly their strongest performance to date – and they did it with style.
Annabella set the tone from the very back. Commanding her area brilliantly, she looked assured in goal and was excellent with the ball at her feet. Her quick distribution got us moving forward at every opportunity, putting us on the front foot and allowing the team to attack with purpose rather than simply sitting back.
In front of her, Martha and Ava were outstanding. Martha swept up everything on the left, tidying up danger, tackling strongly and playing the ball forward with confidence. She also showed great awareness, stepping up at exactly the right moments to catch the opposition offside – a sign of a defender who is really starting to understand the game.
On the opposite side, Ava was equally impressive. She knew when to make those crucial last-ditch tackles but was just as happy to get forward and carry the ball up the pitch, giving us another attacking outlet.
Evie deserves huge credit too. Playing in the centre-back role for the first time, she took to it brilliantly. She tackled well, seemed to be everywhere at once and showed great awareness of when to push up and catch the opposition offside. For someone new to the position, it was a hugely encouraging performance.
Then there was Stevie in defensive midfield, playing just in front of Evie. Stevie got stuck into everything, showing fantastic strength and determination. One moment in particular summed up her performance: a brilliant run down the halfway line and towards the left byline, somehow weaving through about 4 opposition players. It was powerful, fearless and hugely entertaining.
Out wide, Poppy simply refused to stop. Playing on the right side of midfield, as always, she covered every blade of grass, constantly working, chasing, supporting and making herself available.
Florence was equally lively on the left wing, showing really good feet and giving the opposition plenty to think about whenever she got the ball.
Up front, Millie and Paige led the line with real intent. The pair worked hard, created opportunities and were rewarded on the scoresheet. Millie was simply sensational, completing a hat-trick and showing exactly the sort of attacking threat that can cause defenders nightmares. Paige also got herself on the scoresheet and, importantly, contributed two assists, proving that her influence stretched far beyond her own goal.
And the goals just kept coming. Millie's hat-trick was joined by two thunderous strikes from Poppy, while Florence and Paige also found the net. Seven goals in total, against a side with previous New Mills tournament success, made for a seriously impressive afternoon.
But while goals grab the headlines, they don't happen by accident. The assists deserve just as much recognition.
Paige supplied two, while Poppy, Stevie and Millie also provided the final passes that helped turn good attacking moves into goals. It was a real team effort, with players creating chances for each other and celebrating together.
And when it came to Player of the Week, Poppy was a thoroughly deserved choice. Two goals, relentless running and a performance packed with attacking vigour and enthusiasm. She was a constant threat from start to finish and epitomised the energy running through the whole team.
This wasn't just a win. It was a performance that showed how far these girls are progressing. Strong at the back, fearless in midfield, exciting going forward and, most importantly, working for each other. Well done girls!
⚽️🖤💛⚽️
Comments