Mansfield tried to threaten, launching several of their own attacks trying to get back into the game and they looked dangerous from free kicks and corners. In the Newbury goal, Laura Ainscough was called upon to save a 20 yard shot, getting across well to her right and getting a strong hand on the effort to parry well to safety. Newbury then began to enjoy a spell of possession and on 26 minutes, Harkness was fouled on the edge of the area. A free-kick was awarded and Leanne Creese stepped up to score, shooting direct and finding the top corner. She had doubled her side’s lead and gave Newbury some breathing space. They took a 2 goal lead into the half time break.

After the re-start, Newbury refused to let up and there was a real intensity and drive to their play. It was a pleasure to watch, with Creese, Beesley and Harkness all combining and gelling very well. If there was any hint of a Mansfield attack, Newbury Ladies had Sam Atkins and Kela Gunnlaugsdottir providing terrific cover just in front of the back four and time and time again they snuffed out any danger. Then on 63 minutes Newbury put the game to bed, claiming their third goal when Harkness was fed by Beesley. 25 yards out, she worked enough space to unleash a curling effort that flew into the roof of the net, with the Mansfield goalkeeper rooted to the spot, helpless.

Newbury now had a 3 goal cushion and were well in control. Their intention now was to protect the clean sheet and ensure that they didn’t concede. Ainscough was again called upon in the 78th minute, when she was quickly out to challenge an on-rushing Mansfield attacker, after she had broken clear. Newbury’s goalkeeper blocked well, but was injured in the follow-on collision. The referee stopped play, so she could receive treatment and the danger passed. Ainscough was ok to continue and Newbury saw out the game really well. 3 nil the final score-line and it was their 5th clean sheet and 5th victory in the league this season.

Match report by Sue Hewett.