Today we ran out a commanding 4-0 victors over MK, achieved through a relentless second-half performance that showcased our team’s determination and patience against a resilient MK side. Despite challenging weather conditions and a goalless first half, our squad displayed courage, belief and tactical prowess to secure an emphatic win.
First Half
The match kicked off under torrential rain, with MK attacking the goal to our right. From the outset, we pressed high and demonstrated our attacking intent. In the 5th minute, our first significant move saw an attack down the left, culminating in a cross that was collected by the MK goalkeeper. Moments later, a promising through ball narrowly ran out of play, signalling the pressure we intended to apply throughout the match.
By the 9th minute, cohesive build-up play led to Elena Cole taking a shot from outside the box, which unfortunately sailed over the bar. Casi Gregson was particularly lively; in the 16th minute, her deft touch allowed her to unleash a powerful shot that was well saved by the MK keeper. We earned a corner in the 17th minute, but it didn’t produce the desired result.
Our chances continued to mount. In the 20th minute, good play down the right enabled Kiera O’Keefe to get a shot off. A minute later, a significant clearance from Ellie Lake found Maisie Miller through on goal, but her shot went wide. We thought we had broken the deadlock in the 25th minute when the ball was in the net, but it was ruled offside.
Our dominance was evident as we continued to test the MK defence. In the 30th minute, a slick one-two down the left between our midfielders created a great chance for Ellie Sargent, whose shot was well saved.
The MK goalkeeper was in inspired form, repeatedly denying us. By the 36th minute, it was astonishing that the match remained 0-0 after another wave of attacks was kept out.
Maisie had another shot saved in the 40th minute, and shortly after, Pooley’s effort from distance flew over the bar. We earned a corner just before half-time, but it did not yield the breakthrough we sought. Heading into the break, the scoreline remained goalless—a testament to MK’s resilient defence and their goalkeeper’s heroics.
Second Half
We began the second half attacking the goal to the right, undeterred by the unrelenting rain. In the 46th minute, Ellie Sargent made an incisive run down the right flank, but her effort was cleared by the MK defence. The pattern of the first half seemed to be repeating, with us creating chances but failing to convert.
In the 54th minute, Casi forced another excellent save from the MK keeper with a powerful shot. Recognising the need for fresh impetus, we made a pivotal substitution in the 60th minute: bringing on Cori Williams Mills to replace the industrious Casi Gregson. Moments later, a superb cross from Maisie resulted in a great chance, but the ball agonisingly went begging as it eluded our attackers.
Breaking the Deadlock
Our persistence paid off in the 77th minute. After earning a corner, we executed a clever short corner routine. The ball found its way to substitute Cori Williams Mills, who dispatched it into the net with precision. The relief and joy were palpable as we took a well-deserved 1-0 lead.
Buoyed by the goal, we intensified our assault. In the 80th minute, we earned another corner. This time, it was Maisie Miller who rose highest to head the ball home, doubling our advantage to 2-0. Her perseverance throughout the match was finally rewarded. Following her goal, we made strategic substitutions: Libby Piggott replaced the impressive Maisie, and Shurima Vine came on for Elena Cole, injecting fresh energy into the team.
Just three minutes later, in the 83rd minute, Kiera O’Keefe added her name to the scoresheet. Demonstrating excellent technique, she extended our lead to 3-0. Kiera was then replaced by Jessie Taylor, receiving applause for her significant contribution.
Sealing the Victory
As the match approached its conclusion, we remained relentless. In the 90th minute, Cori showcased her keen anticipation. Reading a back pass intended for the MK goalkeeper, she intercepted the ball and calmly slotted it home, securing her second goal of the match and cementing a 4-0 victory for us.
Conclusion
The final whistle confirmed a dominant performance from our team, turning a frustrating first half into a goal fest in the second. The match highlighted our squad’s depth and tactical acumen, with substitutions playing a crucial role in breaking down the MK defence.
Our midfield orchestrated the game effectively, creating numerous opportunities and controlling possession. The defence remained solid, ensuring that MK had minimal chances to threaten. The forwards’ persistence paid off, especially in the second half when we found our scoring touch.
This victory undoubtedly boosts our confidence as we look ahead to our next fixture away to top of the table Hashtag United. Our ability to adapt and overcome challenges, such as a resilient opposition and difficult weather conditions, bodes well for our ambitions this season. This performance and scoreline had been coming all season, but unfortunately for Mk Dons today was that day.
Match Highlights:
- Goals:
- 77′ – Goal! Cori Williams Mills scores from a short corner.
- 80′ – Goal! Maisie Miller heads home from a corner.
- 83′ – Goal! Kiera O’Keefe extends our lead.
- 90′ – Goal! Cori reads a back pass and slots home her second.
- Substitutions:
- 60′ – Cori Williams replaces Casi Gregson.
- 80′ – Libby Piggott replaces Maisie Miller.
- 80′ – Shurima Vine replaces Elena ole.
- 83′ – Jessie Taylor replaces Kiera O’Keefe.
A big mention and thanks for all the supporters who braved the wet conditions and kept behind this team, which was a major factor in the patience and belief everyone showed. Thank you again!!!
