Early New Year Cheer For Salford Ladies
With little training done over the past few weeks due to the Christmas break, Salford's fitness levels were going to be tested today. It was important that the team started well and the intent was there to see with several early chances squandered by the Salford attack in the first quarter of the match, with best chance falling to the Salford skipper Fay Abrehart. But the Morley keeper saved well to concede a corner. Salford was in control of the match for long periods in the first half with some good use of possession. Some neat football from the defence to the midfield worked through the left flank found Chloe Llewellyn, who burst past the Morley full back to get to the by-line and deliver the cross to give Chelsea Scholes a simple tap-in to give Salford the lead, her third goal in three games. Salford's confidence was high as they continued to dominate the game and was unlucky not to add to their lead before half time but just lacked a little composure. Half-Time 1-0.
Salford started the second half as brightly as the first enjoying the game more and more and eager to increase their lead. Some neat play down the Salford right flank concluded with Isha Mundell through on goal and from the angle blazed the shot wide of the Morley goal.
Just past the hour mark the game began to get a little stretched with Morley beginning to involve themselves in the game. With chances at both ends, Salford started to look a little weary. A double substitution was made with Anne Beagan replacing Chloe Llewellyn and a welcome boost for the team was the return of highly rated midfielder Emma Sconce after a two-month absence, who replaced Isha Mundell. Salford started to sit back, soaking up pressure and hitting the away side on the break. Some good football from Morley created a few half chances but the Salford keeper Joanne Phillips was in good form, saving two great chances in the closing minutes to keep a clean sheet and maintain the home teams lead. Full-Time 1-0.
With so many good performances ranging from Joanne Phillips, the ever-influential Claire Harrop, and a good debut from Sarah Howden it was hard to choose a Player of the Match. Abbie Wynn's neat football and overall contribution to the game just edged it, a very professional performance.
Player of the Match Abbie Wynn.
