Closing in on the end of the first round of competition, and with a less-than-impressive win the previous week, the Redbacks came into the match with grit, determination, and a strong sense of teamwork.

The match was played with high intensity. Wauchope appeared to be better positioned in many plays to take control of the ball. It took 20 minutes before scoring opened. A pass into the box found the cool-headed Hannah Morson who gave the Redbacks a 1-0 lead.

Wauchope stepped up a notch and on numerous occasions their quick passing and even greater speed in their attacking line, saw them break through the Redbacks defence. Some great pressure by the Redbacks’ keeper Tamara Burns meant the visitors were consistently denied the point. Coupled with some diehard defence by the Redbacks, on numerous corners and free-kicks, and the frustration on the visitors faces began to show at the half way mark.

As the second half kicked off, the Redbacks were very much aware that a 1-0 scoreline was not enough to win the match, and that with such a dangerous and attacking opposition, they would need to do more to bring the game home. Midfielders Paris Gibson, Brooke Williams and Shannaye Hartland worked tirelessly down the left and right half to create opportunities for the forwards, whilst Tegan Gray and Wade Bellamy controlled the middle, limiting any breakaways. These strong combinations were rewarded just ten minutes into the second half, when after a scramble in the box, Morson once again showed poise and slotted the ball away for a 2-0 lead.

From there Wauchope’s head’s dropped, and the Redbacks only lifted. A great cross from Gibson was able to find Maria Wilson for a third goal, whilst a short corner from Wilson just minutes later, was crossed into the box, finding the head of Brooke Williams for the fourth. The Redbacks were able to cap off their great game with an even better goal in the final ten, when a cross from Morson found the head of returning player Mia Windred, for a perfect goal, and a 5-0 lead. Disappointingly, Wauchope were awarded a penalty in the dying minutes, allowing them to get on the scoreboard, but despite the final goal, the Redbacks came away with a 5-1 victory, and a great sense of achievement.

“I was really impressed with how they played as a team, and chased everything. Their tenacity really paid dividends in this game, and whilst the season is still young, the win was a great boost for the squad, and evidence that we can really challenge this season,” Coach Jose Ustariz said.

Next week sees the Ladies at home once again, taking on Upper Macleay, whilst the Premier League men have the bye. All supporters welcome, with the game kicking off at 1:15pm.