Gwalia United’s U16s pathway side fell to a defeat at Cardiff Met, but the scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story of an evening that began with a 5:30 kick-off.
This was a proper test against a strong, well-organised Cardiff Met side, a team three seasons into a build. Gwalia held their own for much of the first half, competing all over the pitch and creating some decent chances. Better decision-making in the final third might have made the difference, and they went in at the break, a little unluckily.
The second half was always going to be tougher. Gwalia struggled to hold on to possession, and each time they worked hard to win the ball back it was given away again. Sloppy goals followed and heads dropped, but the team to their credit kept going. With only three substitutes, tired legs were showing all over the pitch as the game wore on.
Player of the match went to Chloe in goal, who was outstanding and thoroughly deserved the recognition.
Cardiff Met were the better footballing side on the night and deserved the win, but there are positives to take. The girls will learn from their mistakes, dust themselves down and go again on Friday.
