The Green Lionesses first game of 2026 ended in a 2-1 defeat, but manager Anna Gauvain said she was pleased with her side’s spirited display which fell short of the result on Sunday afternoon at Victoria Park due to a last-minute winner.
‘I think we’ve probably wanted more out of that game result-wise, but performance wise again we can’t fault them,’ she said.
‘We’re in a little bit of a transition learning to play without a few key players, which we’re just getting used to. They’re taking on board messages from training and put it into practice.
‘We’ve just got to find those moments to win games and unfortunately today wasn’t one of them, but we were close, we had Donna [Gallienne] hitting the bar and then a few other half chances and they had a decent keeper involved as well, so it was hard work. I’m proud of them to be honest though, it was a really good performance and that’s what we want, we want really good competitive games so we can improve.’
Gauvain’s side found themselves 1-0 down within the first 10 minutes, but responded well.
‘No heads dropped and obviously Codie [Le Flem] found us a goal before half-time, which was perfect, you know those are game-changing moments because had we conceded just before half-time and gone in 1-0 down, that’s a different story perhaps, but no, it was a great comeback from that moment,’ she said.
Heidi Dawber was named player of the match for her versatility throughout the game, playing in a handful of different positions as changes were made, and posing an attacking threat.
‘I think she was a threat all game, whatever position she was playing in, because we did have to make a few changes. Heidi just takes it on board and gets on with it,’ said Gauvain.
‘She’s looking really strong after the setbacks she’s had in previous seasons [she has broken a leg twice] so it’s really good to see her out there, fit and strong.’
GFC Women are back in action on home soil next weekend against Bournemouth Sports Reserves.
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