Mourant Academy Girls Impress Across Three Matches in England

For the first time, the U11/12 and U15/16 Girls Academy teams travelled to England to take on Claygate Royals FC.

Upon arriving at West End Recreation Ground in Esher, the U15/16s faced Claygate U15s in a full-length 11-a-side match. The game began closely contested, but two early goals gave Guernsey control in the first 20 minutes. The girls played some excellent football out wide, combining effectively

to create chances and fully earning their goal tally. Claygate responded well in the second half, pulling two goals back as Guernsey began to tire with no substitutes available. But overall, it was a positive 6-2 Guernsey win, highlighting the improvement that these girls have shown in a limited number of 11 a side games.

The U11/12s played two fixtures, starting against Claygate U12s. Both sides were technically well matched, but Guernsey showed a slight edge in energy and work rate, pressing the Claygate defence and limiting their ability to build attacks. Midway through the first half, Guernsey took the lead with a well-placed strike into the bottom corner, then added two more goals to make it 3–0 before the break. After rotating players and setting specific objectives for the second half, Guernsey maintained control. Although Claygate pulled one back with a well-worked team goal, Guernsey comfortably saw out a 3–1 victory.

The second match, against Claygate U11s, had to be shortened due to earlier flight delays. Despite lasting just 30 minutes, it was an entertaining and close contest. Claygate posed a greater attacking threat in comparison to the first game, with quick, creative wingers driving down the wide areas and delivering dangerous crosses. Guernsey defended well and looked promising on the counter, although fatigue was beginning to set in after their earlier match. Neither side managed to break the deadlock, and the game ended in a close 0–0 draw.