Cardiff ……………………………… ..0
UWE…………………………………… 4
Cardiff University Ladies’ Football 1st XI suffered a 4-0 defeat against UWE, as they played to reach the semi final of the Western Conference Cup. UWE have proven to be a formidable force on the pitch as they currently stand first in the BUCS Western Conference 2B league, in which Cardiff also play. Conditions were perfect for a great Cup match.
Cardiff pressurised from early on as they made progress towards the goal with Claire Couzens playing particularly well on the wing.
The Cardiff side had many chances but somehow could not find the back of the net. However, UWE took their opportunities and went 1-0 up in the 15th minute. UWE then slotted another two goals past Cardiff keeper Claire Eaton as they strengthened their lead to 3-0. Cardiff’s performance was not reflected in the half time score line, as both sides had enjoyed fantastic periods of play.
Cardiff came back onto the pitch after their half-time team talk determined to get back into the match. The Cardiff side enjoyed long periods of possession with balls to feet and effective passing. Emma Collins, making her 1st team debut in centre midfield, played particularly well as she fended off UWEís number nine and created chances for her team.
There were a number of chances for both teams – one falling to winger Laura McDonald, whose strike sailed just wide of the post. The 80th minute saw Cardiff concede a penalty as defender Megan O’Connell braved a rash challenge. UWE’s number nine slotted the ball into the left hand corner and with that UWE’s lead was extended to 4-0. Shortly after, Hattie Gillet, captain for the day, went down injured, which saw the introduction of substitute Rhiannon Jones.
Cardiff managed to hang on and not concede any more goals, as they left the pitch at full time with a 4-0 loss. The ladies expected the game to be tough, having played UWE on two previous occasions and lost both times.
Cardiff will now focus on their remaining games in the league and look forward to their highly anticipated Varsity fixture.
Abigail Smyth
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