FC Walhain B

After the rough start of the season, FCI Ladies 3 were full of motivation to search for a better game and a better result. The theme of the day, as highlighted by our coach Slim, was space – moving without the ball to create it and scanning the surroundings before receiving the ball. And while on it, we wouldn’t mind also scoring a few goals.

It is a rainy Sunday morning in Walhain when the teams enter the pitch. Our public also includes a few horses peacefully grazing in their pasture right next to the pitch. The first beats of the match set the tone of the game: the two teams seem very equally matched, both creating some scoring opportunities straight away while battling for the control of the midfield. The bumpy grass pitch brings its own element into the game, making it dangerous for players’ ankles (get well soon, Roxanne!) and meaning that any stray ball towards the goal might take a weird bump and go in.

After about 30 minutes of play, FCI finds great combinations in midfield, creating enough space for Anna to make a run for the ball at the edge of the box. While battling for the ball, it hits the hand of a Walhain player and a free kick is granted. What follows goes down to the Ladies 3 Hall of Fame: a beautiful free kick by El drops right in the upper-right corner of the goal, allowing FCI to take the 0-1 lead and opening our scoring this season.

However, it does not take Walhain long to equalise in the same manner: a free kick is given and shot right to the goal, where the bounce surprises FCI and makes the score 1-1.

The game continues with the same intensity, with FCI pressuring high. A risky pass from a Walhain defender ends up giving Eliana a clear scoring chance, and she’s ruthlessly taken down by the opposition. Standing on the penalty spot is Gabi, who – ever so coolly, with nerves of steel – puts the ball in the corner of the goal for 1-2 just a few minutes before half-time.

The second half is a long battle to hold the lead. Walhain pushes hard for an equaliser, but FCI holds the lead and clears dangerous balls with strong performances all across the defence. And it is not only content to defend but also searches for its third goal. The clearest attempts are from Sandra, skilfully found in the penalty area by El, whose shot is deflected into a corner by the goalie and  Amina, whose shot just goes wide of the post. As neither team is able to score in the second half, the end result remains 1-2 for FCI.

It was an intense game, but we go home with a well-deserved three points. Walhain gave it their all and made it a great game, but in the end it was FCI that managed to stay more disciplined and fought until the very last minute. What a way to start the away games of this season!

Player of the match: El