We all arrived in anticipation at our CFP home pitch for the second match of the semi final against Cauchois. Having only played the day before, we were all feeling like a good warm up was needed! With a great turn out from CFP supporters, we took to the pitch in fighting spirit, heads held high, ready to defend our 3-2 win from the previous day.

CFP started out strong, with good constructive game play and rapid ball movement. We had a few attacking advances within the first 10 minutes before a heavy rain set in, adding to the challenge! The forwards worked hard and CFP had 2 near goals. Cauchois then had two fast breaks in the middle; seizing two windows of opportunity to score 2 goals before the end of the first half (4-3 to Chauchois).

After a stern but motivating team talk lead by Florent, our coach, CPF were energized again to re-establish control of the game. CFP came out strong and affirmative, creating good movement of the ball to remain in possession. Both teams fought hard and the fighting energy was high on the pitch. CFP then came through with a well earned goal when a ball was played in from the left into the attacking circle to Vicky, who positioned herself on the right post for a deflection; making the score 4 all!

Despite CFP’s determination, both teams fought with equal tenacity until the end of the game was signaled with 4-4 still remaining on the score board. This meant the game would have to be resolved in a 7 minutes 30 each way Golden Goal play off! After a quick replenishment of water, CFP and Cauchois then went head to head again to race for an instantaneous winning goal. The 14 minutes seemed to pass by very quickly with only a few near chances for each team. The final whistle blew and we knew then that it came down to penalties…!

CFP huddled to gain composure and 5 of us were picked to make the penalty shots against the Cauchois keeper. Tension ran high as Yolande, the CFP keeper, and the 5 chosen girls got ready to battle it out to the end, on behalf of the rest of the CFP team. After swift instructions from the referee, everyone knew what they needed to do and the penalties commenced. All 5 girls put 100% effort into the penalty shots, but unfortunately it was Cauchois who came through to win the game by gaining a difference of 4 to 2 on penalties.

CFP had a fantastic match and despite losing by the skin of our teeth, we all came off the pitch feeling proud and satisfied that we gave everything we could. Amazing game to all the CFP girls…what a fantastic end to the 2010/2011 season.

The team: Yolande - Karen, Marine, Hannah, Oria - Justine, Robyn, Sarah, Lucile, Josephine - Luciana, Lelica, Aimee et Vicky

Coach: Florent et Alex

Supporters: so many! :-)