01/11/2026
Bournville 0–2 Raptors
The Raptors made the long trip to Bournville this weekend with a depleted squad, facing a team that had so far remained unbeaten. Everyone knew this would be a tough challenge, but the girls were ready to put in a shift.
First, a big shout-out to Quinn, Elsie, Edie and Alice, who all stepped up brilliantly in defence throughout the game, filling in for our usual defensive setup. Their efforts were hugely important to the team's performance.
The game started in rather lethargic fashion, with both sides taking time to settle on a heavy, sloping pitch that was very different from the usual well-maintained surfaces the girls are accustomed to.
Changes were made around the 15-minute mark, with Hope coming into the middle and Quinn moving onto the right wing. Both introductions brought some much-needed urgency, energy and work rate.
On 18 minutes, Quinn produced a lovely pass that found Imogen, who, as she is increasingly making a habit of doing, finished brilliantly to put the Raptors 1-0 ahead.
And it wasn't long before the partnership struck again! Following the restart, Hope worked tirelessly to win the ball back before playing a beautiful pass through to Imogen, who made no mistake in doubling the Raptors' advantage. 2-0!
As the game began to slow, excellent work in midfield from Libby and Lily helped keep things under control and ensure the Raptors maintained their grip on the game.
The second half brought a determined response from Bournville, and it took some heroic goalkeeping from Atlas, alongside some resolute defending from Elsie, Quinn and Edie, to keep them at bay. Bournville threatened to fight their way back into the game, but the Raptors stood firm, working tirelessly for one another throughout the morning.
As the game entered its closing stages, Alice, Thea and Daniella all had opportunities to make it three. Alice came particularly close, finding herself through on goal, only for her effort to be denied by the post. It really couldn't have been much closer!
**A fantastic team performance, a great result and another sign that the Raptors are beginning to find some excellent form.** To travel away to an unbeaten side with a depleted squad and come away with a clean sheet and all three points says a lot about the character and togetherness of this team.
🏆 Player Awards
**Parents' Player – Quinn**
A brilliant performance from Quinn, who stepped into defence and did an excellent job before moving out onto the wing. She worked tirelessly, showed great versatility and created several opportunities for the team. Thoroughly deserved!
**Coaches' Player – Libby**
It's been coming for a while! Libby put in a tremendous shift in the middle of the park, showing fantastic determination and making sure she was first to the ball time and time again. Her work helped limit Bournville's opportunities and gave the team a real platform to build on.
**Well done, Raptors! Another three points and another step forward.**
Bilton Ajax Junior Football Club
