VALE GIRLS U16s 0

COED DRAGONS 1

TWO evenly matched sides produced probably their best displays of the season in Sunday's game at Maslin Park.

Despite the narrow defeat for the Vale, the workrate and much-improved passing could not be faulted and the whole side can be very proud of their overall efforts.

Starting strongly, the Vale girls created several opportunities without success and, although Coed came into the game and created chances, Vale stand-in goalkeeper Shanice Donovan ensured her side remained on level terms; and, indeed, was absolutely magnificent throughout with several top-class saves.

Against a tight visiting defence which was giving little away, Vale showed much greater urgency with some excellent football and, after 12 minutes, following Georgia Atkinson's through ball, Jess Thompson shot wide; then a superb effort from Emily Hill was well saved.

During a period of pressure, Coed forced several corners and Donovan produced one of a string of magnificent saves following a powerful shot.

The rest of the first half was fairly even, with both sides continuing to have chances and Vale's Ellie Wenger and Danni Kerslake going close.

Vale were back on top at the start of the second half and Kelsey Murray, who was having her best game of the season at the heart of the Vale defence, delivered a great cross which the Coed 'keeper saved well.

Kerslake and Hill used runs down the wings to cause the Coed defence further problems, but, from a long clearance and breakaway, the visitors scored with an excellent shot which gave Donovan no chance.

With the Vale defence and midfield continuing to provide opportunities for front runners Grace Samuel and Georgia Atkinson, an equaliser looked possible, but a great free kick by Murray sailed just wide and the Coed 'keeper made several good saves.

Vale defenders Niamh Teague, Shanaz Masani and Gabbie Cates ensured Coed were unable to add to their lead.

For a string of consistent performances, Lucia Attanassio was named the Vale player of the month for November.