Dinas Ladies beat Premiership leaders to book semi-final berth
In terrible conditions with the wind blowing strongly and the rain coming down this wasn’t a game for the faint hearted. Caldicot currently sit top of the Premiership and look odds on favourites to claim the title so this was a game that the villagers knew they would have to be at their very best, however it wasn’t enough as they were defeated by Dinas Powys ladies, writes Lee.
The home side started the brightest as they went on the attack from the opening whistle. Dinas looked to take advantage of the wind behind them in the first half and continuously put the ball behind the Caldicot back four.
Laura Murray managed to latch on to one of the balls and coolly lifted the ball over the home side’s keeper. The visitors then started to attack with more purpose and looked for a second. Molly Chapman could have increased the lead as she ghosted in behind her full back but fired directly at the Caldicot keeper.
Caldicot had plenty of pace in attack but some strong defending kept them at bay for the first 45 minutes at least.
Dinas had a dream start to the second half playing into the wind and rain as their little midfielder freed Murray whose shot trickled over the line.
The home side threw bodies forward but Kelly Tuck, Rachel Beare, Vicki Ellison and Alicia Cox, backed up by Naomi Wilson in goals defended bravely. They headed everything away, blocked crosses and tackled anything to deny Caldicot.
Dinas looked to counter attack and in Molly Chapman, Sophie Whittle, Demi Bounds and Murray they possessed plenty of pace. In fact, it was left back Ellison who provided the cross for Demi Bounds to finish at the back post with a delightful lob.
Nao, Jo Jones and Sam Saunders the oldest midfield three in the league played with a youthful stride, as they were the engine of the side. They plugged holes and started attacks, whilst having the ability to track their runners.
Caldicot pulled a goal back late on but Dinas made their subs to add some fresh legs. This was a very solid display from the Villagers, who continue their unbeaten run to book a semi-final spot.
The final will take place on April 30th.
