Women’s football squad step up Island Games preparations

The 20-strong squad have a programme of three games in two days, with Eastleigh providing two sides for back-to-back fixtures on Saturday before Winchester are the opponents on Sunday.

‘It was something that was always in the pipeline and we have managed to get it sorted out in a bit of a mad rush because we were so keen to get some games between the Muratti and the Island Games,’ said head coach Anna Gauvain, with another of the coaching staff, Paul Wheatley having played a big part in organising the matches.

‘We have been able to watch the Muratti back and we speak with the girls about different things we could see in our performance, but getting into that routine of being together and training on a regular basis is helping.’

Gauvain added that the coaches were stepping up fitness work and emphasising to the players how tough playing each day in a competition like the Island Games can be.

‘They are not used to tournament football, so a big part of this weekend is making sure everyone gets good game time. We are prepared to use the whole squad because we know we are going to have to [in the Games].

‘Also, we have not seen the whole squad play in matches and there are players who were disappointed not to play in the Muratti who are giving us a bit of a selection headache in training – it’s definitely competitive.

‘We’re all looking forward to the trip at the weekend and I’m sure the buzz is getting bigger for the Island Games.’

Guernsey women’s football squad

Adrienne Leech, Aimee Ogier, Amy Dallamore, Bella Ogier, Calleigh Hedley, Candice Bougourd, Codie Le Flem, Diana Marsden, Donna Gallienne, Elise Le Lacheur, Emma Queripel (GK), Jessie Staples, Joelle Priaulx, Kayleigh Marquis (GK), Lynsey Stanton, Scarlett Gallagher, Scarlett Keneally, Sophie Gallienne, Steph Batiste, Tatiana Caires.