SARAH MAJOR was left “excited” at the potential of Droitwich Spa Belles after they recorded a 7-1 pre-season friendly victory over Welland Ladies in her first game in charge.
After being appointed manager of the Belles last week, Major’s tenure got off to the perfect start against their Midwest Counties League rivals.
A closely fought first half saw the Belles, Droitwich Ladies’ second team, adjusting to the demands of their new manager but they created a number of good chances as Aimee Ward twice went close before Sam Spencer opened the scoring on the stroke of half time.
Major’s half time team talk produced a stunning second half display as some very positive attacking play resulted in Spencer bagging herself another three goals to make it 4-1.
Charlotte Wallis scored her first two goals for the Belles to take the score to 6-1 before Tania Ballinger added the seventh.
Throughout the game, the Belles’ back line was well marshalled by central defenders Lara Wilson and Becky Butler while goalkeeper Lorna James produced a number of excellent saves to frustrate Welland.
However, she was beaten on just the one occasion with the score at 2-0.
Major said: “The girls showed real potential for what I’m sure will be a good season ahead for us.
“All the girls pushed their case for a starting shirt for our first competitive match next weekend.
“I was really delighted with the way they played and am really excited at the potential of this team.”
The Belles start their season on Sunday with a home fixture against Cookley Sports in the Bill Allsop Memorial Trophy before taking on Welland in the first league game of the campaign on Sunday, September 11.
Droitwich Spa Ladies open their West Midlands Regional League Division One South campaign on Sunday with a visit to Coventry Development Ladies.
