A morning fixture for Bolton W2s travelling to the Armitage to take on top of the league City of Manchester 2s.

Game started strong for both teams, moving and travelling across the pitch which was extremely slippy. With 11 players and no subs this week, we knew that playing top of the league would be a very physical and demanding game. Bolton took the game to City and with a well place ball to top of the D, midfielder Viv Lake, reversed flick to winger Emily Hawkrigg on back post, slipped to waiting winger Nicky Ashurst who popped the ball past the City keeper, with a well deserved cheer from us all. Bolton were on the up and we could feel that City were rattled, with two penalty corners which Bolton were unable to convert. Violet Kimbowa broke from her defensive position with a rapid run up the wing, leading City unable to deal with her. With another PC awarded to Bolton, Becky Denton pushed out to top d, captain Viv Lake, with a straight strike smashed the ball onto the defensive city player and past the keeper top right, leaving Bolton leading 2 nil at half time.

City came out second half with a nothing to lose and Bolton were on the defensive immediately. Backs Caitlyn Walker, Kimbowa and CB Debbie Nicholson were under a lot of pressure after City were picking their game up and constant in Boltons 23. Forwards Natasha Johnson and Rebecca Parkinson kept the flow for an outlay to them both which produced a run forward but lacking in legs were unable to make use. Jess Hawkrigg kept control of the City players who were strong and demanding. With a lovely ball out of the d, unfortunately connecting to Emily Hawkrigg ankle who had to go off. Down to 10 men and 10 minutes to go, Bolton players all were back to defend but unfortunately, they were soon at a draw 2 -2 with minutes to go. Keeping the pressure up City suddenly got a PC with 30 seconds to go.... ohhh no a repeat of an earlier game..... all City players were up and with the whistle gone, the PC was still to be played... keeper Nina Jones set her players up, ready to get the ball out, hearts racing we could take the draw....PC taken scramble around and double teamed and City took the win.

100% effort from Bolton

Players Player Debbie Nichoson
Coachs Player Debbie Nicholson