MANAGER Ian Fry was left delighted after Droitwich Spa Ladies got their West Midlands Regional League Division One South campaign off to a good start with a 1-0 victory over Coventry Development Ladies.
With captain Sammie Shail, Charlotte Criddle, Jenna Dedicoat and Jenna Lepore all making their debuts, Spa started the game in a positive fashion and dominated the first period but despite creating several chances, they failed to break the deadlock.
Ellie Gerhold had two good chances, one of which hit the post, while Criddle had two long-range shots well saved before blasting another opportunity over the bar.
Having ended the first half level at 0-0, manager Fry made some changes during the break to mix things up. And these changed had an immediate effect as just five minutes into the second half Spa took the lead.
Substitute Lucy Solloway collected the ball inside her own half and embarked on a 60-yard run before feeding the ball to Gerhold whose shot could only be parried to Lindesy Jones who slid the ball home on her 118th appearance for Spa.
Spa continued to pressure the Coventry goal as Gerhold, Solloway and April Polden all had chances to double the advantage.
In the last few minutes, Spa came under great pressure from Coventy as they sought the equaliser but they held out to claim three points and ensure a winning start to the season.
Fry said: “The team played really well against quality opposition. They thoroughly deserved their win and I’m absolutely thrilled for the girls.
“We’re all already looking forward to our next match on Sunday against newly promoted Coleshill Town Ladies.”
