Sunday 25th January :Steppers Friendly Tournament.

The women’s team kicked off their season with the inaugural Steppers tournament. It was a 4-side tournament at Ive Farm. The weather was dreich, raining on and off through the tournament. Trevor Ridley, provided a reassuring sight for everyone as one of the match referees.
Orient kicked off against North London United. It was a ‘hit and miss’ display with Kavanagh superb in midfield, scoring both goals from closing and pressing the North London players and winning possession. At other times, there were a lot of missed passes.
Leyton Orient 2-0 North London (Kavanagh 2)
Next up Arsenal. Arsenal played Orient at their own pressing game, missed passes followed. Arsenal took the lead with a strong shot and needed Williams at her best to keep the score down with three fine diving saves.
Leyton Orient 0-1 Arsenal
The final group game was against Steppers. Orient found their press and passing rhythm but this time missed some big chances. Orient had a penalty that Baker took and the keeper saved.
Leyton Orient 0-0 Steppers
Orient qualified for the final in second place and faced Steppers again. This was an excellent game of walking football. Orient now had found their game and played some excellent football. Baker opened the scoring with a pile driver into the top corner. The second came from a fine passing move that left the over-lapping Jones with a chance to score which she did. It was Jones first goal in eight years playing for the Club.
Leyton Orient 2-0 Steppers (Baker, Jones)
Orient were then presented with a lovely glass trophy. Pictures will be posted. Chairman Cheston commented ‘it was a great display in the final. The team improved from a rusty start to play some excellent football. The bad weather had ruined the Thursday sessions in the New Year and left the players lacking pitch time. Praise needs to be given to the whole squad who battled through some misplaced passing and pouring rain. Big thank you to Steppers for organising the event and providing a lovely trophy. Thanks to the referees Costas and Trevor for keeping the games flowing.
Finally, a word of praise for Sally Jones, first goal in 237 appearances for the Club.
Team: Chris Williams, Andree Selner, Debbie Lewzey, Alison Kay, Lynda Dowling, Sherrille Hyatt, Sam Baker, Clare Kavanagh, Sally Jones