For all else that went on, this was most importantly job done. After another enforced three-week break through no fault of their own Lowestoft had a tricky away assignment on their hands coming away to newly promoted Shrublands. An occasion that turned out to be the inaugural Division one assignment for Shrublands after UEA let them down last minute on the seasons opening day in mid September.

With the large crowd close to the pitch, on top of and even in the dugout at a game hosted in the park. This had all the makings of a banana skin affair but Lowestoft got on with their job, the fast start critical with Louise Nichols scoring inside two minutes. It was a game Lowestoft had control of throughout and despite a spirited effort from Shrublands, Lowestoft never really looked like coming away with anything less than 3 points. It was a job well done for all connected to the club and the players and staff of Lowestoft can be very proud of their efforts.

Last of the Summer Sunshine

You wouldn't have known it was Sunday 4th October as we were greeted with 22 degrees and warm sunshine for this Derby Day affair, a crowd basking in the sunshine in sun hats, T shirts, sipping cool drinks and more it was a lovely way to spend the opening Sunday of October.

The sunshine brought out a huge crowd close to three figures on the Common for Shrublands inaugural Division One affair as the Division Two Champions hosted the Division One Champions. A last taste of summer with temperatures set to drop in the middle of the coming week and future Sundays expected to feel more autumnal.

Lowestoft fortunate to have this so early in the fixture list, a trip here in November, December or January will be daunting for clubs beneath the trees with darkness setting in. Shrublands won't win the Division but multiple teams will trip up at their Southtown Common venue so it's one Lowestoft are glad to tick off before we get to far into the season.

Bruising Contest

This contest was every bit as bruising as was anticipated, away to a newly promoted team, the game was littered with tackles and in the main was an aggressive and scrappy affair, summed up by a hospital visit for Bea Silva after some brutal first half collisions, Silva withdrew from the game midway through the contest, later released from hospital but wearing a protective boot to begin her recovery, there was a casualty on the Shrublands side to with Mel Terriss suffering a broken collarbone, everyone will hope both Mel and Bea make speedy recoveries.

Abi Bell also had to withdraw from the contest but later returned in another energetic performance from the midfielder. It was a contest Lowestoft were glad to get through and come out the other side with three points.

Defensively Sound

The Lowestoft defence had a brilliant afternoon, the club was delighted to have captain Charnelle Riggall back after missing the opening day win at Mulbarton, Riggall was joined in defence at Shrublands by Fran Heaney and the amazing Mia (Willie) Wilson, all three were just fabulous and dealt with everything thrown at them by a determined and energetic Shrublands. Chloe Pearce in the Lowestoft Goal also produced 3 or 4 top quality saves during the 90 minutes to prevent to keep Lowestoft constantly in charge of the contest.

The way Lowestoft have been defensively excellent in the two league games so far is testament to the quality and dedication of players in those positions. With the defence yet to play together as a regular unit after Riggall missed the opener and Marcie Prettyman missed today, the quality of the defensive performances so far are extremely encouraging, when regular weekly games are played they will keep getting better and better.

Coming of Age

This is very much a breakthrough season for one of Lowestoft's young stars Louise Nichols, and she is doing exactly that. Fine performances in all three competitive fixtures to date, looked good against higher division Needham Market In the Fa Cup, did everything but find the net in the league opener at Mulbarton and on Sunday at Shrublands followed all that with a super performance to win Lowestoft player of the match.

Nichols with her 2nd minute goal and a performance full of versatility and when you have a young player so adaptable and can play well in different positions signs are very encouraging for Nichols at Lowestoft. Nichols preferred position is up top but she is adaptable and a vital member of the Trawler Girls squad. It's been a fabulous start to her season and long may it continue.

100% Club

The 3-1 win at Shrublands sees Lowestoft remain in the 100% club in Norfolk Women and Girls League division one with Kings Lynn Soccer Club the only other side to join Lowestoft as having a 100% record so far.

After next week's cup tie at Aylsham, Lowestoft return to home comforts with a triple header of league fixtures at Crown Meadow against UEA, Costessey Sports and finishing on 1st November with a visit from King's Lynn Soccer Club, if both teams are still 100% when we wake up and head to Crown Meadow on 1st November we are going to be in for some contest.

Up the Trawler Girls!

By Darrell Allen

Photo: Lucy Eagle

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