This was the third encounter of the season between these two teams, with every match hard fought and very closely contested. Ascot United had previously triumphed in a penalty shoot-out in the FA Cup on the opening day of the season, after the tie had finished 1-1. The two weeks ago, the first league game also ended in a 1-1 draw, after Newbury had taken the lead. And so it was a familiar story in this match, with a one goal Newbury lead, that remained intact at the half time break. As always, Ascot’s lively attackers can cause problems and Carly Passfield had to be alert on more than one occasion, but her handling was clean and strong; and Ayala Truelove was showing all her experience in a masterclass of a defensive display.

Newbury’s players were prepared that one goal would not be enough and so Ascot came out strongly after the interval, putting the home side under real attacking pressure. Ascot’s Lucy Holzman-Clarke scoring an equaliser on 53 minutes. Newbury were then able to exploit some space on the right through Bec Walker, with two crosses in quick succession being sent into the Ascot six yard box. On each occasion, Jana Penazova was just unable to connect for Newbury at the back post and the chances went begging. Just after the hour mark, Ascot earned a free kick, which gave them a great opportunity to take the lead. The ball fell at the feet of an Ascot attacker just six yards out, but very fortunately for Newbury, she blazed the attempt high over the bar. Ascot sensed blood and stepped up the tempo, making matters uncomfortable and tense for Newbury. They hit the woodwork in the 76th minute and then goalkeeper Passfield did well to put off the Ascot striker, when she was through for a one-on-one chance, but was forced to shoot wide.

Experienced striker, Amy McNab, was introduced for Newbury after 72 minutes, when the match was still evenly poised at one goal apiece. A further re-shuffle of personnel followed soon after, with Burnett playing in a wider role. The changes paid off handsomely for Newbury, when they put together a clever passing move, involving Forster, Burnett and Beales. The latter’s final pass inside the area finding its way through to McNab, who had ghosted in at the far post. She provided a very well placed right foot finish on the half volley to slam the ball home for 2-1. Newbury’s second goal was scored in the 89th minute – cue ecstasy!

With the game’s final minute, plus time added on to be played, Newbury endured a tense finish, as they pushed every muscle and sinew to hang on for a precious and well earned victory and three huge points over local rivals. Finally it was Newbury’s day and the win sees them move up to 3rd place in the Southern Region Premier League table, with only promotion contenders Oxford City and Chesham United above them.

Match Report by Sue Hewett