Ravens are on a learning curve (From Penarth Times)

Ravens are on a learning curve

DINAS POWYS Ravens played their first ever match, against Caldicot Town, under floodlights on Tuesday of last week.

Thirteen girls turned up and all played during a match which allowed rolling substitutes.

Playing in the club colours of red and black stripes, black shorts and black socks with red hoops, they made a bit of club history their own by being the first ladies to represent the village.

Before the match it was decided to go by the name of Dinas Powys Ravens. They now become the 27th side affiliated to the club.

The game consisted of three periods of 25 minutes and with nine of the girls playing their first ever football match, kicked off against the wind.

After a good start Dinas hit a disastrous 15 minutes. Caldicot scored on the break to go 1-0 up, then when the Dinas goalkeeper was lying on the ground injured, Caldicot scored again.

Alyson Wright deputised for Lisa Howell, but the score at the end of the period was 5-0.

Cath Thorne scored to everyone's great delight in the second period, and the score was 7-1.

Dinas Ravens also lost the third period narrowly, again 2-1, with Sally Harlin beating three players to score with a superb solo effort.

Back at the clubhouse for a post-game buffet and drinks the girls were already looking forward to the next match. They certainly did themselves, the club, the supporters and coaches proud, and the period scores of 5-1, 2-1 and 2-1 showed how they improved as the game went on.

Chairman/Manager Paul Marks said: "My thanks to Alyson and Steve for all their efforts, to Ray and Andy for coaching and to Lee and Richie for their support."

Full squad: Alyson Wright, Natalie Garland, Sally Harlin, Lisa Howell, Kelli Speller, Kelly Hockridge, Nicole Fowler, Lucy Evans, Becky Price, Val Broomfield, Jane Mack, Cath Thorne, Katie Fleming.