On a warm, sunny day the 15 strong squad of players from years 11, 12 and 13 travelled over an hour for their first match of the season.

On a warm, sunny day the 15 strong squad of players from years 11, 12 and 13 travelled over an hour for their first match of the season. They were playing Brayton College, Selby in the first round of the National Schools Cup.

Macmillan made a very strong start but failed to take their early chances. Beth McGhee (yr 12), Sam Brown and Emma Graham (both yr 13) came close and Vicky Affleck's pace was a constant threat.

Just before half time, the break through came, Sam Brown had a shot saved and Vicky Affleck reacted first to score the rebound. Macmillan continued to press forward in the second half but despite lots of chances couldn't seem to find the back of the net.

This frustrated the Macmillan defence and a lost ball in midfield let in the Brayton attack. Goal Keeper Lisa Begley's (yr 11) 4th touch of the game was to collect the ball from the back of the net.

This goal from Brayton sparked the home team into life and Macmillan found themselves under increased pressure. The centre back three of Laura Dack, Abi Marsden and Cherelle Lane (all yr 13) worked hard to keep the attackers at bay but a speculative shot from a tight ankle caught the defence off guard and allowed Brayton to take the lead.

With only 15 minutes of normal time remaining, Macmillan needed to raise their game. They worked hard in midfield and returned to the attacking football they played in the first half. Lorni Robson (yr 11) slotted the ball into the top right hand corner of the net with a well taken goal that took the game to extra time.

The extra 10 minutes each way took their toll on the Brayton team and the Macmillan players proved to be much stronger and fitter. Early in the first period, Daisy Barnaby (yr 12) poked the ball home and the Brayton players had no fight left.

Captain Emma Graham sealed the 4 - 2  victory with a stunning goal in the top left hand corner, from 30 yards out. Emma also took the team's vote for player of the match.

Macmillan now play away against the winners of Easingwold School (York) or Eckington School (Sheffield).