Starting the new year in style

The ladies 2s kicked off 2016 as they finished 2015, with a win keeping them second in the table. Chiltern are a tough opposition, which meant that the game commenced with end to end play, with both teams having opportunities to go ahead. Forwards Sarah Ayres and Sharon Avola worked to create space up front, supported by wingbacks Gemma Jones and Emily Smith who worked to force play wide. The first half ended at a deadlock. A period of sustained pressure from Chiltern in the second half brought the strong defence of Sally Retford, Andii Chandler and player of the match Lisa Patrick into play, Patrick clearing one off the line, alongside keeper Amber Kelly who made some superb saves to keep Chiltern at bay. Midfielders Katie Jackson and Chrissie Dixon continued their work in moving the ball forward, with some well worked movement creating a chance for Siobhan Hennessy, who put Leighton ahead at 45 minutes. This opened up the game for Leighton, shortly after winning a short corner which Lucie Webster struck hard to force it to loop over the keeper off the Chiltern defence. A third goal followed soon after, with a short falling to Suzy Mounter in the D to score her debut goal for the team. Chiltern continued to fight back, winning a flick in the final two minutes which was converted, however, Leighton remain happy with their play, and ready to take it forward for the remainder of the season.