The home side were then able to extend their lead on 35 minutes, after a Nicole Beesley pass was latched onto by in-form McNab, for hers and Newbury’s second. Two nil now to Newbury, but that two goal cushion was not to last for long. Just prior to half time, Mortimer pulled a goal back and the match was finely poised 2-1 in Newbury’s favour at the break.

Sadly for Newbury, they allowed Mortimer to score an equaliser not long after half time, but Newbury Development responded well. At 2-2 there was still a long way to go in the game and Newbury were looking organised and strong. The fearless, Sam Richards, was playing her heart out in the midfield battle for Newbury, breaking up play and tracking well. It was a disciplined and concentrated performance from Newbury, that Mortimer Ladies could find no way through and the match ended at two goals apiece and a point a piece for the draw.

Sam Richards was without question Newbury Development’s Player of the Match, and this sets up the prospect of an exciting meeting this Sunday 26 January, when fourth place Newbury will take on third placed, Thatcham Flames, in a local derby fixture.

Match report by Sue Hewett