On a bright day in Nottingham UoN and Clifton R W1 met for the last game of the 2002-24 league season. As both had lost their previous 2 games in Phase 3 it was a ‘dead rubber’ with regard to Play Offs but nonetheless important to win. Clifton started brightly but fell behind on 2 minutes when Maddie Long scored. Clifton responded quickly with an outstanding finish from debutant Darcy Shields, only for Darcy then to be carded with Carmen Ansley for stick tackles. Emily Drsdale made it 2-1 to Clifton just after half-time after a long run to the D from the back and Clifton were in control of the game and making chances. Maddie Long’s second on 51′ levelled a fairly even game. Clifton had chance after chance saved by the UoN reserve keeper but missed chances to finish off the game. a cruel deflected own goal credited to Kea Murray put UoN 3-2 up and agin Clifton had a number of chances to level the game but failed to score. A 3-2 loss seemed harsh but finishing let us down. After the game thanks were given to Clemmie Houlden, who leaves to go to University in the USA and Clifton stalwart Abi Porter, who retires after many years wearing a Clifton shirt.
Categories: Match Reports