Manager Laura Hodgkiss looks back at the Ladies’ narrow defeat at Coventry Sphinx.
We started the game well and took the lead at 1–0 through a very well taken goal from Haz Parnell.
At that point we should have taken control, kept the ball better, and gone on to add a couple more. Instead, we allowed Coventry back into it and struggled to get a real foothold as the game went on.
The conditions were difficult with heavy rain, strong winds, and a lively pitch, but it was the same for both sides. They dealt with it better than we did and went on to score three times. We did mount a late fightback and Haz Parnell grabbed her second with another excellent finish deep into stoppage time, but unfortunately it was too little, too late.
Ultimately, we were outbattled and outmuscled at key moments. Right now, we’re still coming to terms with the physicality of this new league, and we have to learn quickly. Yes, we’ve got a few players missing through injury, but that can’t be an excuse. We know we have the technical ability to compete, but we need to match that with greater resilience, fight, and physical presence.
This week we’ll focus on those areas in training and make sure we’re ready to respond in the best way possible when we host Bromsgrove Sporting in the FA Cup on Sunday. Kick-off is at home, entry is free of charge, and it would be fantastic to see as many supporters as possible backing the ladies. Your support makes a huge difference, and we’d love to have you with us as we look to progress in the cup.
