In Manchester FA’s Women’s Summer League Beechfield United Ladies were in action against Irlam Vale Ladies at Platt Lane Fallowfield and they secured a 2-1 victory.
Straight from the kick-off there was a fast pace to this 9v9 game with both teams eager to take control and Beechy made a dream start.
Following a goalmouth scramble United took the lead when Rachel Griffin forced the ball over the line to open the scoring. For the next ten minutes Beechy were on top playing some lovely football with Crystal Barker controlling the midfield and both Sophie Wainwright and Rachel Griffin having numerous shots on target.
Irlam Vale were forced to produce some resolute defending and United almost increased their lead when a great header from Rebecca Watkins hit the crossbar.
Eventually Beechy went 2-0 up through Sophie Wainwright but suddenly Irlam Vale began to force their way into the game forcing several top-class saves from United Goalkeeper Briony Bradbury.
The second half got under way and it just as good as the first with both teams creating some excellent passing moves and displaying intelligent movement off the ball.
Team Captain Gemma Winterburn produced an inspired display and in defence Lauren O’Neill, Samantha Smith and Shauna Smith were rock-solid as Irlam Vale looked dangerous via the counter-attack.
Jade Gadsby and Colby Gerrard made appearances in the second and it was the latter who delivered some great crosses into the area which should have led to Beechy adding further goals.
After Irlam Vale scored what eventually proved to be their consolation goal Beechy faced a nervous last few minutes before they could celebrate their second win in the competition.
Player of the Match was Shauna Smith.
Beechy’s squad was: Briony Bradbury, Lauren O’Neill, Gemma Winterburn, Shauna Smith, Samantha Smith, Crystal Barker, Rebecca Watkins, Sophie Wainwright, Rachel Griffin, Colby Gerrard, Jade Gadsby.
