Ladies Exit FA Women’s Cup

Ladies Exit FA Women’s Cup

London Corinthians (3) 5

Herne Bay Ladies (0) 1
Holness 75

FA Women’s Cup 2nd Round Qualifying
at Badgers Sports Club, Eltham

by Anthony Deer

Herne Bay Ladies exited the FA Women’s Cup at the hands of a more than capable London Corinthians side who demonstrated their higher league status to full effect in this 2nd Qualifying Round tie in Eltham.

“I wouldn't say the score line flattered Corinthians, however 4 of the 5 goals were down to individual mistakes at crucial moments in the game,” said manager Anthony Deer, “we lost the touch and rushed passes when not needing to; causing our own problems.”

The game turned in the 33rd minute when goalkeeper Breeze Handley dropped the ball, a rare handling mistake, into the path of the Corinthian striker. Carly Farrow pulled up with a quad injury which forced a change of personnel and positions which saw Emily Johnson go in goal. From here, and unfortunately for the substitute keepr, two quick errors resulted in two quick goals for Corinthians just before half time.

In the second half the Bay Ladies began to get a grip of the game, passing improved and the team grew in confidence. A momentary lapse of concentration early on in the half led to the Bay conceding a penalty. They still didn't give up though and were rewarded with a goal from Vicky Holness who didn't stop running the whole game against a strong Corinthians back line. There were a couple of half chances to make the score a little bit more respectable but London Corinthians sealed their progress with pretty much the last kick of the game from a corner headed in at the back post.

“It’s disappointing being knocked out of the FA Cup,” said Deer, “but I am pleased in the way that we didn't stop and give in throughout, there were some positives but my main concern is the availability of players in the coming weeks. These are the things that test us in the most difficult times. We will regroup and focus on the next two league games to restart out season.”

Herne Bay Ladies Squad: Breeze Handley, Rachel Tracy, Beth Nugent, Enya Lynch, Debbie Blackmore, Kate Foster, Lauren Wiltshire, Lesley Kay, Bella Smith, Carly Farrow, Vicky Holness, Emily Johnson, Elizabeth Lehan, Sarah Holmes

Player of the match: - Vicky Holness