Girls Youth U18’s head into the Christmas break sat in second spot in the Junior Premier League Warriors table with goal difference the only thing separating them and AFC Stoneham right now. The U18’s side have surely made their mark in their debut season and we caught up with manager, Stuart Connor to get his thoughts on the new challenge.
On entering the JPL for the first time
The experience has been exactly as we had hoped for competitive games, a strong league throughout and playing against some big name teams really motivates the girls each week. As a team and coaches, we are really enjoying the challenge of coming up against teams we have not played before.
On the biggest challenge of the season so far
The travel has been quite an increase from last season, but we knew this going into it. Our biggest challenge this year has been dealing with the number of injuries, but this has not affected the way the team has performed as we are so lucky to have such a talented squad.
Results so far
Nottingham Forest 0-6 Ascot United
Ascot United 5-1 Worthing Town
Ascot United 4-3 Watford Ladies
XL Football 1-1 Ascot United
Ascot United 1-0 Millwall Lionesses
Wycombe Wanderers 1-7 Ascot United
Ascot United 9-0 Nottingham Forest
On the highlight of the season
One of the highlights would be our 1-0 win against Millwall Lionesses. A game between two very good sides that could of have gone either way. The girls game management in the last 10 minutes showed just how much they have developed as players and as a team. Another highlight would be our win against Watford Ladies having been behind 3 times showing real character to come back and win 4-3.
On going into the Christmas break
We are feeling good and confident going into the Christmas break. We sit joint top of the Warriors Junior Premier League with a game in hand and remain the only unbeaten team in the league, but we know we have some tough tests ahead of us.
On what we can expect in 2023
We are hoping for more of the same for 2023, there is a real commitment and determination from the girls this season and they just want to keep improving. Three of the squad have featured regularly for the Women’s First Team this season and quite a few for the Phoenix squad. This shows there is a pathway in place for girls coming through the age groups.
Up next, they will welcome Notts County Women to the Racecourse on Saturday 7th January for a 10:30am kick off on the 3G.
Ascot United Girls Youth U18 are proudly sponsored by Index Holdings for the 2022/23 season.
Up the Yellas!
