Denham United Ladies hosted New London Lionesses this afternoon. Facing off at the Den, for a spot in the next round of the London South East Women’s Football League cup. Going into this match the host had only won one of their previous four fixtures. Beating Saltdean United in a seven-goal thriller. The visitors fared slightly better in their build up, picking up four points from a possible twelve. Narrowly defeating Aylesford Ladies in their last match.
Denham United started the match with a chance. Playing it wide from kick off, the host found space. Shooting miles wide of the goal in heavily windy conditions. Lionesses also had an opportunity early on. Putting a low cross into the box, which was easily dealt with by the home side. Repeating this once more the visitors tried again. This time seeing the ball fall into the keepers’ hands for a comfortable save. Denham followed with a chance at the other end. Sending in a cross of their own, rolling out for a goal kick. Breaking the deadlock, the guest took the lead. Shooting from distance, visitors saw the ball roll into the net. After the keeper failed to keep hold. Passing play between two attacking players held possession in the final third. Getting closer, Lionesses came close to adding a second soon after. Smacking a shot into the chest of a Denham defender as it came flying off the pitch. Persistence paid off when the second came. On the stroke of half time. The lioness’s player slid the ball past the on-rushing keeper, who was not fast enough to make an interception. Sealing a poor half from the home team.
At the break Denham were lucky to not be behind by more. Regretfully missing the opening opportunity of the game, which went on to cost them. New London Lionesses putting on a brilliant performance. When play resumed it was New London who had the first chance. Hitting the crossbar within a few minutes of kick off, they looked eager to increase their lead. Coming close again a weaving run let the travelling player take a shot at goal. Falling into the keepers’ arms. Before two more attempts went wide either side of the posts. Staying up the field, Lionesses forced Denham into some last ditch defending. Seeing a chance cleared deep in the six-yard box. However, they were able to add a third. Converting from inside the box. Thanks to a well drilled corner routing falling to the player.
In conclusion the on-field action provided a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon. Perfect match for a neutral. Despite windy conditions. Denham United simply not turning up on the day. Leaving lionesses to run riot in West London.
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