T.E.A.M. G.B.R

Today was our first game day as we faced the Russian University side in a friendly, who are also preparing for the upcoming World University Games. It was a great opportunity and insight into what we may have to face in the next few weeks as we both head to Kazan to battle it out for gold.

T is for Tractor and Towels

After the usual morning samples and breakfast, the coaches set us a task, a team building one which involved creating ‘TEAM GBR’ literally! We were split off into teams and headed on a mission around the training ground to find items which not only began with  either T, E, A, M, G, B or R but were either red, blue or white, our colours. As you imagine this was entertaining to say the least as everyone’s competitive side emerged and no-one wanted to come out losers. There was a lot at stake as the winning team have the privilege of choosing what sport we would go and watch whilst at the Games; suggestions of sports started flying around with 27 different options to choose from!

E is for Extinguisher

So off we set creative brains at the ready and camera in hand to see what we could find to create TEAM GBR. Unfortunately despite some imaginative photos our team didn’t win, but congrats to Kerys, Beth, Demi, Dan G and Trev who stole the show. It was great way to spend the morning relaxing and always great for team bonding. As gutted as I was that our team didn't win you can't help but agree that the pictures showing are more than worthy winners... 

One of my favourites... R is for Rose

Before we knew it our first game had arrived and everyone was buzzing and literally could not wait to get out there and play. We didn’t know too much (well we knew nothing) about the opposition but this was a chance to focus for this first time as a team. To say the game was interesting is a slight understatement, as what began as a football match turned into more of  a wrestling match as the physical side of Russia’s game emerged.  Full credit to all of the girls who kept their head down, emotions steady and focused on the game in hand and didn’t react; they should be proud of themselves. The game ended in a draw but penalties followed - a situation that may well arise in the latter stages of the Games - and we emerged winners. We played some good football and everyone had the chance to play their role. Confidence is high as we look forward to Kazan and it’s fair to say all of the work we have done prior to departing for Russia is starting to show.

Great Britain Universities Women's Football Team 2013

Last full day in Moscow complete and tomorrow we get a day off as we look set to head to Kazan, and finally into the athlete’s village. As enjoyable as Moscow has been I literally cannot wait to get to Kazan and experience all that it has to offer. Life in the village is only just around the corner...