Both teams have been in action this week contributing to no less than 19 goals in two preseason matches. The Women’s team travelled to Cranleigh Surrey on Sunday 11th and were thrilled to keep a clean sheet and score seven goals. Our U18s graced the Homecall Carpets on 13th August against Rusthall Kent. Both teams produced an absolute thriller as the visitors made it six six with the last kick of the game. BHTFC would like to send a massive thanks to Cranleigh and Rusthall for these opportunities and wish you both good luck for the coming season.
Cranleigh Women’s 0 BHTC Women’s 7
We caught up with Manager Tom Clingo who seemed pretty pleased with the clean sheet.
We started a little bit slowly but after 10-15 minutes we settled into our rhythm really well and got more comfortable with the ball. We were much more patient in possession which is really important. As soon as we took the lead we were free flowing and able to take control of the game with a lot more width.
We pressed really well throughout the game and kept our structure out of possession fantastically. It was a really hot day so it was vital for us to regain the ball and make sure we looked after it effectively. It was nice to see a few players grab their first goals for the club.
We spoke about game management at half time and we pride ourselves on clean sheets so that was a priority for the second half. Maintaining the ball so well was a key factor for that. We controlled the tempo of the game in the second half superbly.
I was really pleased with a lot of the basics too, our decision making, quality on the ball and passing detail was superb. We need to carry that into our next game away to Worthing Town (Sunday 16:15) and for the remainder of preseason into the first league games.
Scorers Megan Hoare (2) Hannah Sparsott, Alana Delaney, Alicia Haworth, Millie Morley Brogan Kirk. Megan picked up the POM award.
U18s 6 Rusthall 6
Fans were treated to a crazy night and some fine goals as our U18s, managed by Umberto Oliva and Adie Clayton, look forward to Lewes in the league next week. The match started in fast and furious fashion as both teams looked to dominate what looked a physical encounter. It was the visitors centre forward who produced a moment of magic dancing past three Hillian defenders before slotting home. They went on the rampage scoring another two quick goals one from the penalty spot. Hill were awarded a spot kick of there own which was duly dispatched. Noah Hoffman making it three two just before the break.
Hill started the 2nd half in great form and went on to score four goals. With just eight mins left the hosts looked comfortable six four up. However, a gift set up a nervy end and as the ground held its breath Rusthall swung in the cross for a forward to head in the last gasp equaliser.
We caught up with Umberto after the game, full interview below ‘we did some really good things on the ball but for 25 mins we were quite poor front to back. We are looking to play front foot football and create a lot of goal scoring opportunities. I am confident that if we can iron out the deficiencies, we saw today we can go and have a brilliant season!’
Both squads are very much part of the fabric and ethos around the Homecall and we can’t wait for their respective competitive seasons to get underway. Indeed, the U18s are in Isthmian South action at home on Thursday 22nd August 7.30pm start against Lewes. The Women commence in September.
