Pride Park FC played away to Mickleover FC Juniors U14s this Saturday. After all the rain, the pitch was playable but the conditions were difficult for all, making moving the ball around that bit more difficult. This was another challenge and learning experience for PPFC, which this team seized.

With Betsy picking up a late pre-match injury, there were further changes to player positions in addition to those over recent weeks. But again, Ruby picked up the job, moved back from centre midfield and did a great job defending and feeding the ball back up. It was also good to see Polly returning after being out for couple of weeks with an injury.

The team kept the majority of play in Mickleover's half however, PPFC were rushing their possession a little and finding it difficult to move the ball around their team mates. PPFC had a few shots on target which were saved and then halfway through the first half, Mickleover caught PPFC on the break to score with a well time strike on goal. The first half finished 1-0 to Mickleover.

After half time, the Pride came out full of energy and belief, winning tackles and holding possession better. This combined with a more attacking formation saw PPFC get the equaliser with a great goal from Yumi. With their supporters proud and behind them, the Pride continued to attack with quality shot after shot on goal, only for them to be saved by the keeper or woodwork.

After the game, Andy said: "Me and the coaches are so happy to see all these players developing individually and as a team. They're growing in confidence and have a fantastic team spirit. They're seeing training and every game as a challenge to be enjoyed and learnt from, regardless of results. I thought the girls worked for each other and collectively showed real resilience today. We could have closed down quicker and still tend to give the opposition time to control the ball. I was pleased India got player of the match today. India really excelled today winning the ball all over the pitch, creating opportunities and get some shots off. Well done all"