With just five core players making the match, following some last minute drop outs, Toucans arrived at Hedge End to face a full squad of blue West End players.

The Toucan took the view that whatever happened today, just playing a game was a win. 'So, girls, remember training and have fun'.

Toucans had a very strong opening quarter and the girls were playing some football, although a little unfocused and bunching at times. End of the quarter we were 0-1 down. Not a bad outcome was the view from the sidelines, but the 'Durante' themselves had other ideas.

Because then the new Toucans team, of their own accord, started shifting into gears we didn’t know they had. First an equaliser, then 1-2 as West End scored a soft one on us, but for the rest of the match Toucans were fighting and scoring. West End were a physical team and physicality is something we have been working on: so proud of the Toucans as from an initial wobble they remembered the drills and responded accordingly.

The final result was… Toucans first win of the season: 3-5. Delirious celebrations all round. Five players of the match our pundits reckon (although our super striker was awarded it for two goals and a load of running), every player bar the goalie scored. Our goalie was amazing stopping many shots. A great first goal from one of our newest players, a perfectly timed captains goal and a massive half way line blast from our towering guardian of the midfield.

Coach Allan, Coach Lenny and Coach Alix so proud. A massive thanks to all the parents who made this happen today and helped out.