In the inaugural section of a Women’s Football Focus, coach Calum Brooks talks us through the progress of the Next Step FC women’s team as they prepare for the upcoming CPL women’s league.
You can read about the Women’s Cambodian Premier League here
Preparing for our first match
Calum Brooks
Last Sunday saw our Ladies team take on a well organised, spirited and talented Plov Jivit United team. Considering it was the first time our group had fully played together it was amazing to see how they took to task and had obviously responded to the intense training they had gone through.
Under the guidance of Coaches Callum, Katey and Rith the team put in a solid performance in the scorching heat, with most of the large squad getting a chance to take the field. We were also happy to have a decent crowd then to cheer our team on.
Next Step FC vs Plot Jivit FC
The first half saw First Step FC play some wonderful passing football, defend the penalty box bravely and press from the front, and being unfortunate not to go ahead early on. We finally took the lead shortly before half time. We were pegged back shortly after and in fairness the scoreline then reflected the game. It was two organised teams having an extremely competitive match.
The second half remained goalless despite both teams having chances, with tributes being paid to our Goalkeeper after the match for not only making several tremendous saves but also showing great sportsmanship. A principle near and dear to Next Step FC.
In a match that both teams tried to go on and win, the result correctly reflected the event. It was a great exercise for both groups on an afternoon that ended with many photos between both teams and respect between the coaches. Overall the showing gave us great hope for the season ahead.
What does it mean for the Next Step FC women’s team
So, while this was of course a friendly match, the fact that have been able to pit together a squad, train them and indeed play a highly completive match speaks volumes about just how serious Next Step FC take the promotion of women’s football.
And as a true community club one thing that really made us happy was just how many members of the Next Step FC mens teams showed up as fans.
This article is adapted from BPVE SPORT Cambodia, reported and edited from the great team – Cambodia Sports Review.
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