Robo double clinches Plate win for Millers Ladies

An excellent game of football on a cold but sunny afternoon watched by a healthy sized turnout of onlookers saw Cray Valley Ladies clinch a narrow victory in this third round Kent Womens Plate cup tie. With the the two sides occupying first and second place in division one east of the SECWFL at the start of the day a tight affair was always likely and so it turned out to be with little to choose between the two teams.

Cray started brightly and Eve Sales went close heading over from close range. However it was Dartford who took an early lead in the 4th minute a pass splitting the defence for the winger to run onto and Aimee Ascott finished well from just inside the box. Dartford could have extended their lead but an outstretched leg saw the ball fly over the bar. Cray equalised in the 18th minute Lucy Robertson chipping the keeper from out wide and the ball dropping into the far corner of the net.

Cray were awarded a penalty just after the half hour but Annemarie Blanche saw her shot go wide of the target. Lia Morphitis went close with a shot just past the post but it remained 1-1 at the interval.

Second half and Cray began to dominate possession although Dartford looked dangerous on the break and had a goal ruled out for offside. With extra time looking a possibility Cray took the lead with thirteen minutes remaining, Lucy Robertson scoring her second of the game. The keeper blocked her initial effort as she broke through on goal but was able to control the rebound and calmly slot home past the defender on the line.

Cray saw the game out and the 2-1 victory sees them now face Bromley Ladies at home in the quarter final. Date to be confirmed although Sunday 30th January would seem likely.

Cray Valley line up: Sharp, Henry, De Sousa, Rollings, Morphitis, Jackson, Goldsmith, Chenery, Blanche, Robertson, Sales, Subs used (roll on, roll off) Billings, Bodington, Dodds. Subs not used: Colby, Knipe.

Picture courtesy of Joshua Bowles: Goalscorer Lucy Robertson in action.