05/09/2026
The Raptors welcomed Berkswell and Balsall Hornets to Bilton for their opening game of the season, and what a fantastic way to start the campaign! On a beautiful day for football, the Raptors put in a brilliant team performance to secure an impressive 7-1 victory.
The game started brightly, with both teams creating chances in a closely contested opening. It was Lily who broke the deadlock in the 10th minute, scoring her very first goal for the club on her debut in spectacular fashion – curling the ball straight in from a corner kick!
After some changes at the 15-minute mark, Thea made an immediate impact. A perfectly weighted through ball found Alice, who kept her composure and finished brilliantly in the 22nd minute to double the Raptors' lead.
Elsie was causing all sorts of problems down the right wing, and her hard work paid off when a Hornets clearance fell to Daniella. She played a lovely pass through to Edie, who calmly slotted home her first goal of the season.
In midfield, Lily and Libby linked up superbly throughout the half, with Libby going close from long range. Moments later, Alice showed great awareness to intercept a goal kick before finishing confidently for her second goal of the game.
The Raptors went into half-time full of confidence and continued where they left off after the break. Elsie picked up the ball near the halfway line, squeezed between two defenders, powered through on goal and finished brilliantly to score her first-ever goal for the Raptors – a moment she won't forget in a hurry!
The Hornets continued to battle, but strong defending from Maisie, Libby and Scarlett kept them at bay. Scarlett then surprised everyone by popping up on the edge of the box and firing home a fantastic goal for her first of the season.
A moment of confusion at the back allowed the Hornets to pull one goal back, but the Raptors responded brilliantly. Hope combined well with Edie before the ball was played through to Alice, who completed a superb hat-trick in style.
It was an excellent all-round team performance, with every player contributing to a memorable opening-day victory. A perfect start to the season for the Raptors, who can be incredibly proud of their effort, teamwork and determination.
Very well deserved:
Parents Player: Lily
Coaches Player: Elsie
Bilton Ajax Junior Football Club
