Stevenage Ladies picked up their first win of the season with a 3-1 win over newly promoted Acle United Ladies on Sunday.
Donna McGuigan opened the scoring in the first half, firing home the rebound after Nicole Hogan’s shot wasn’t dealt with properly. Two second half penalties from Josie North secured the win, with the visitors also reduced to 10 after a defender continued to dispute one of the penalty decisions.
Player-manager Josie told us, “Sunday’s game against Acle was a massive test of our character and I don't think I've ever been as relieved to win 3 points. We had several senior players missing but we battled so hard all over the pitch, pressed high and were clinical with our finishing. Every single player gave me 110% and we finally secured our first win of the season. I couldn't have been prouder of the team.”
For the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Premier Division table, please click here.
Meanwhile the Stevenage Ladies Reserves continued their recent good form with a 5-4 win over Little Thurrock Dynamos, a result which lifts them to joint top of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Division One South table.
Two goals from Jade Finch and one each from Jade Eaton, Beth Page and Tayla Huckle secured all 3 points and made it three wins on the bounce.
Describing the game, reserve team boss Dave Potter told us, “What an exciting game of football this was and the kind of game I like to be involved in. The match was slightly delayed due to the opposition getting stuck in traffic but that did not affect the game which turn out to be the most exciting game this season to date. Both teams played some really good football and was end to end stuff.
“Both teams played well in the opening ten minutes but there were no real clear cut chances until a fast break by Stevenage saw Bernice Corney power down the right and crossed for Jade Finch to score.
“Little Thurrock Dynamos scored two quick goals to take the lead but our ladies regained composure and were given a gift when the away ‘keeper failed to gather a shot, with Beth Page lurking to equalise.
“The second half was the same as the first with both teams playing some great football but it was Stevenage again that took the lead after Jade Finch scored her second of the game after breaking through the defence. Once more Thurrock equalised, only for Jade Eaton to once again put Stevenage ahead with a placed shot into the corner after good work by Tayla Huckle.
“With 15 minutes to go Thurrock drew level once again but it was Huckle who scored what proved to be the winner, chasing down a backpass and blocking the clearance before sliding the ball home. The grit and determination from both teams was great to watch today and was a great advert for ladies football.
“Three wins on the bounce sees the reserves top the table but there is a long way to go.”
For more reaction from the Ladies teams pick up a matchday programme at the Stevenage v Luton game on Saturday. Ticket news for this game can be found here.