By Jonathan White, photos by Peter Robinson
Nantwich Town FC Women continued their pre-season preparations with a spirited home performance against higher-tier opposition in Stoke City FC Women.
The exciting fixture took place on the afternoon of Sunday 20th July at the Swansway Stadium on Water Lode in Nantwich. In a closely-fought contest, the Dabbers were narrowly edged out 3-4 by Stoke in what proved to be a thrilling encounter.
Both sides created chances in an evenly matched first half, with the Dabbers trailing just 0-1 at the break. The second half delivered end-to-end action and no shortage of drama, as the Dabbers pushed hard and showed great determination in a high-tempo finish.
Goals for Nantwich came courtesy of Libby Bulkeley, who netted a brace (below), and Amanda Fallon, both showing sharp finishing to keep the home side in contention throughout.
Dabbers starting XI: 1. K. Townsend, 2. N. Walker, 3. P. Smith, 5. B. Harding, 6. K. Greenwood, 7. A. Hatton, 8. K. Naylor, 9. A. Fallon, 10. M. Ragdale (captain), 11. J. Alderman, 16. M. O’Connor. Subs: B. Davies, E. Darrell, K. Green, H. Knight, L. Pearce, P. Emery, L. Bulkeley, J. Buckley-Ratcliff, J. Case.
Manager Dan Mellor reflected positively after the match:
“It was a tough test today against a very strong Stoke side and while the result didn’t go our way, there were plenty of positives to take. We saw some real moments of quality, great energy across the pitch and players stepping up in key areas. That’s exactly what pre-season is about, challenging ourselves, learning and building towards where we want to be.
“At this stage, it’s not about the result it’s about the performance, the progression and laying the foundations for the season ahead.”
The Dabbers are heading into the 2025/26 campaign full of confidence after a remarkable 2024/25 season, where they made history by lifting the Cheshire Women’s & Youth Football League Premier Division title in dominant fashion.
Since forming in 2020, the team has quickly made a name for itself, finishing last season with an impressive 15 wins from 16 matches and topping the table by nine points. Their cup runs were equally impressive, reaching the First Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup and the Semi-Finals of the CWYFL Challenge Cup.
Now gearing up for life in Tier 6 regional football, the squad is buzzing with excitement and boosted by fresh talent coming through recent trials.
Stay connected with all the latest updates, match reports, and behind-the-scenes action by following the team on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTFCLadies