League Cup | Badshot Lea 1-5 Finchampstead Ladies

Finchampstead Ladies booked their place in the next round of the League Cup with a dominant and entertaining 5-1 victory away to Badshot Lea.

Playing into strong winds and battling a low autumn sun, we started the game with real intensity and purpose. Our bright opening was rewarded in the 9th minute when Smaje produced a superb finish to put us 1-0 ahead and set the tone for the afternoon.

The early lead gave us confidence and we quickly took control. At one end, debutant goalkeeper Jodie was outstanding, making a number of excellent saves, while in front of her our brilliant disciplined and determined defensive unit stood composed, controlled and firm throughout. At the other end, our attacking play was fluent and clinical, with Ruby and Annalea both finishing off well-worked team moves with great goals to extend our advantage.

Despite our dominance, Badshot Lea grabbed a goal against the run of play just before half-time from a quick breakaway, leaving the score at 3-1 at the break.

The second half saw us raise the tempo once again. We moved the ball with confidence, created chances from all areas of the pitch and never allowed our opponents back into the contest.

Frida added a deserved fourth with an excellent finish before Beth rounded off the scoring with our fifth goal, putting the seal on an outstanding FIVE STAR team performance.

There were excellent performances all over the pitch. Debutant Jodie was superb between the posts, the defensive unit provided a rock-solid foundation, and going forward as a whole squad we showed quality, creativity and ruthless finishing when it mattered.

A fantastic all-round display, five goals, and a deserved place in the next round. A performance full of energy, character and quality from start to finish. LoTM Jodie