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Photos: Julia Piotrowicz
Over in Tent 3, a frantic yet entertaining encounter saw York triumph over Lancaster 5-2 in the women’s 1sts indoor football.
York, favourites for the encounter after an impressive season, took the initiative from the off with a goal from Marte Retzius in the first minute.
Buoyed by such a good start, York ensured that Lancaster’s scoring opportunities were limited.
Intelligent use of the ball from Lancaster captain Egan posed the most threat to the ladies in black and gold, but great defensive work from Ellie Whittaker and safe hands from York keeper Meg Phillips made it difficult for Lancaster to fashion decisive scoring chances.
After 7 minutes, Whittaker found herself in some space and, from a tight angle, blasted an effort into the top corner, beyond the sprawling Lancaster goalkeeper. York were two up after seven minutes, looking good value for their lead.
As has been evident throughout Roses 2013, Lancaster never go down without a fight. Luckily, not a literal fight, despite the feisty and claustrophobic nature of the game combined with a few questionable calls from the referee.
After great close control and a probing run from Lancaster’s McDivitt, York’s failure to seize possession proved costly when the ball was laid off to the Lancastrian number 13 who smashed an unstoppable long-range effort past a helpless Meg Phillips.
The game was finely balanced; each team determined to go into half time with a chance of snatching the two points on offer for this match.
York struck back. Ellie Whittaker once more finding space and lashing the ball into the net.
However, complacency from York allowed Lancaster to retaliate immediately. Sloppy defending and a misplaced pass allowed captain Egan to calmly slot home a second for Lancaster.
York led 3-2 at the break after a decent first half showing.
Half time allowed York captain Vicky Decamp time to rally her troops; York had to hold their nerve as the next goal was crucial.
Leading by example, Decamp struck two decisive blows to Lancaster’s hopes with a brace in quick succession. York 5 – 2 Lancaster.
Ensuring complacency didn’t become an issue this time, York saw the game out effectively; battling for every ball and not allowing Lancaster’s ladies any room to manoeuvre.
5-2 it finished. A breathless battle with goals galore, and a vital 2 points secured for York.