Belper’s losing start

BELPER Ladies began their Division One North season with a 2-0 away defeat against Olton & West Warwicks.

It was a new-look Nailers squad that began the 2020-21 campaign, with six under-18 players in the squad.

Both teams started well, creating several chances.

But only Olton were able to capitalise on theirs, showing composure and experience in front of goal.

Belper coach Craig Keegan said: “We managed to fit in a couple of friendly games but we were not able to undertake our normal, thorough pre-season process.

“I was concerned that we would be a little underdone and may struggle in this first match, especially as we are a new-look team this year.

“Having lost a number of players from last year’s team, we actively recruited five new players, as well as added some of our talented junior players into the National League squad.

“Considering the number of squad changes and the new coronavirus guidance, I was very pleased to see how well the team applied themselves against a very experienced Olton team.

“We created a number of early half chances. In fact, we were very competitive for the full 70 minutes.

“I was pleased to see the number of good scoring chances we created, especially generating six attacking corners. But, frustratingly, we were not able to take one of our opportunities.

“Our inability to handle those critical moments ended up being the difference between the two teams. They took two of their chances and we didn’t.

“Developing our ability to manage those critical moments, especially composure in front of goal, will be key to start winning games.”

Belper are at home to University of Durham on Saturday (12.30pm).