The U11 Mint squad delivered a superb performance at the IAPS National Finals, playing some of their best football of the season on the biggest stage. Eliza quickly turned defence into attack with her throws from the box, Lizzie and Camilla kept calm and composed making vital tackles in and around our goal area, Mya, Darcey, Clodagh and Izzy had opponents in a spin with their fast-paced dribbling, agility and physicality, whilst Abi and Alicia played with confidence and determination across the pitch, to bring the performance together.
The girls were outstanding throughout the group phase, remaining unbeaten in all their matches and drawing the final game – all while maintaining an impressive clean sheet.
Their consistency earned them a place in the semi-finals, where they once again faced Milton Keynes, the same opposition from the regional finals. After a tense 0-0 draw, the team held their nerve brilliantly in the penalty shootout, with Mya and Camila scoring with conviction, and Eliza producing some outstanding saves to send us through to the final.
In the final, the girls continued to play brave, exciting football, taking risks, creating chances and showing real ambition. Despite a narrow 1-0 defeat, the performance was full of quality and character. The squad should be incredibly proud of securing silver, firmly establishing themselves as one of the best teams in the entire country.
This achievement is a testament to their hard work, commitment and togetherness, and there is no doubt that this talented group will continue to reach more finals as they progress on their footballing journey.
Squad: Camilla, Abigail, Eliza, Mya, Clodagh, Alicia, Lizzie, Darcey, Izzy
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