Disappointing start for Western in Italy
Milne Craig Clydesdale Western began their attempt to
achieve promotion from the European Challenge against Ginstra
Strekte Universitas from Lithuania in Italy today with a bitterly
disappointing 2-1 defeat.
The opening game of any tournament can prove awkward and this
was very much in evidence as they struggled to produce the kind of
performance of which they are capable.
Conditions were very hot and the first half finished scoreless
as both teams struggled to gain the initiative. Early in the second
half the Lithuanians opened the scoring courtesy of a set piece
conversion. Western responded almost immediately when captain Sam
Judge finished off a well worked open play move.
However Western continued to find it difficult to create
openings against a typically physical Eastern European defence and
were caught out inside the last ten minutes when, with tiredness
beginning to play a part, Gintra won another short corner.
Goalkeeper Amy Gibson made the initial save but from the rebound
the Lithuanians managed to work the ball back into the circle and
produce the killer finish.
Manager Elaine Macara was naturally bitterly disappointed and
said “We did not create enough chances but the girls did not
deserve to lose all three points.”
Western play the host club HF Lorenzoni tomorrow in the next
round of matches with a win vital.
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