It took Oxford United just 6 minutes to open the scoring, after springing the Newbury off side trap. Further individual mistakes cost Newbury dear, as they found themselves 3 nil down after 10 minutes, with Honor Ramos in the Newbury goal, horribly exposed.

Although shell-shocked with the way the opening period of the match had panned out, Newbury did then begin to assert themselves and from a Ruby Oliver free kick, the Oxford keeper took drastic action and tipped over the bar for a corner. Sadly there was to be no Newbury comeback, with Oxford making it 7 nil by half time.

Newbury regrouped for the second period and showed great resolve and better defensive organisation, although by now they were carrying one or two injuries. But new Skipper Caz Harkness, Ellie Reed and Ruby Oliver continued to link up well, going in search of a goal and trying to carry the game to Oxford. Honor Ramos continued to make several good saves, when Newbury’s defence was under pressure from a quick and inventive Oxford forward line.

The match finished 12 nil, with Oxford victorious. But the positives for Newbury were their work ethic and team spirit under difficult circumstances.