Original plans to attend the FA Cup fixture between QPR Women and AFC Wimbledon were scuppered after an alleged waterlogged pitch. Leaving a handful of fixtures still being played, on equally wet surfaces. One of which was SL Benfica London Women hosting Brentford Women. The match being held at Middlesex FA. In front of an impressive crowd, for that tier of women’s football.
Starting this afternoon’s affair. Brentford began with a bang. Winning a corner, coming to the near post. Dealt with diligently by the Benfica back line. Building space Brentford sought out an opportunity. Offside ending the chance for the guest. Having their first go at goal. Benfica bobbled back-to-back shots, both going into the keepers grasp easily. Shooting from outside the box the host saw the shot head over the bar. Remaining resolute the Portuguese inspired outfit offset opposition attacks. Before a wide ball began momentum on the wing, but the Brentford full back found a solution. Seeing out the chance with strong use of their strength. A superb spin from the visitors front line sent the ball into the final third. Finding the feet of an advancing attacker, who shortly saw the offside flag go up. Making a strong save Emily Boycott batted the proceeding play around the post. Shortly followed by a Benfica opportunity, which ended up being obstructed, as Chloe Logie lunged in to avert danger. Breaking the deadlock. The home side secured a way through. Darting into the area, lobbing the keeper. Touching it at the other end to confirm a goal.
Getting the second half underway. It was the Bees who came out the better. However, an early injury ended the burst of energy. Starting a lengthy stoppage in play as spectators looked on. Following a football bouncing of the visitors’ midfielders chin after being passed from close range. When play resumed, Benfica broke away for the first chance. Pilling on pressure. The Portuguese team missed by miles. Quickly being counter attacked by their opponents. Offside call coming to the host rescue, despite the player having home defenders in front of her. Making a comfortable catch Brentford’s shot stopper had a simple save. Dealing with a cross goal attempt, after Benfica back and forth passing played them into open area. Leaving both teams waiting once more. Another injury halted play. Benfica’s defender going down, as everyone looked on. Failing to get the ball on the pitch back-to-back Benfica throws did not count. A third attempt saw it finally reach a teammate, who lost possession instantly. A third injury took a toll on the fixture. Ending this match as an enjoyable outing, after everyone got frustrated with its stop start nature. Before Brentford managed to level the game. Getting a goal inside the six-yard box. Tapping the attempt over the line, luckily gifted by a slip in the shot stoppers hands. Seeing the fixture out in the final exchanges Demi Edwards laced an effort on target.
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