Words from Elise and Katie
Avaldsnes vs Qiryat Gat
After watching film on the Isreali champions we knew that they would come at us with a strong offensive set up. Game day began early in the morning for both teams, having to get up for pre game meal at 7 in the morning. Kick off was at 11 and the Montenegro temperatures were reaching an all time high. After an hour and half bus trip to the stadium the team was excited and ready to get our second game of the tournament underway. The battle started well on our part with three early goals from Luana, Elise Thorsnes and Andreia. After pressing high most of the first half we decided to reserve some energy and attempt to play with more possession. We were able to come away with a fourth goal from center forward Cecelie Pedersen before half time and head in to the break feeling satisfied with our first half performance. At half time Per Inge made a goalkeeper substitution giving Hildegunn Saevik her Champions League debut. As the summer sun continued to bear down on the competition the game slowed down a bit and began to open up space for both teams. At the 57th minute mark Emily Gielnik put Avaldsnes up 5-0. Soon after Qiryat Gat began to push and were awarded a penalty that was converted by their captain to steel the shut out. After their goal the Israeli squad brought a burst of energy and found the net for a second time. However the red and white were able to end on a positive note when Cecelie slotted her second goal of the match to end the score at 6-2. More positive news for Avaldsnes came when Chloe Logarzo made her return from injury in an energetic fashion as well as seeing the young talent Anna Josendahl grace the pitch to make her Champions League debut as well.
Avaldsnes- Spartak “The final”
Next up we turn our attention to the only other unbeaten team at the tournament Serbia’s champions, Spartak. Spartak come into the game having scored 12 goals in two matches and only conceding 1. They are a well organized team with a highly effective offense that we will have to look to break down in order to move through to the knockout rounds of the tournament. The team is feeling confident heading in to our final practice before the match and will look to take the final battle with the same grit and determination we have used throughout our entire season thus far.
Katie & Elise