By Jonathan White, photos by Peter Robinson & Staci Hocknell
Nantwich Town FC Women kept their sensational unbeaten league run alive with a thrilling 4–3 victory over Runcorn Linnets Ladies in a top-of-the-table clash at the Swansway Stadium on Sunday 26th October 2025.
Captain Levi Lander led by example as the Dabbers battled through a seven-goal spectacle to stay top of the North West Women’s Regional League Division One South, extending their unbeaten league streak to nine matches.
Manager Dan Mellor made three changes from last weekend’s Cheshire FA Cup triumph, naming new signing Sophie Holden on the bench alongside Jo Case and Bridie Harding.
It was the Dabbers who took charge early on, surging into a 3-1 half-time lead thanks to two well-taken goals from Amanda Fallon and a fine finish from skipper Levi Lander. Runcorn fought back strongly after the break, drawing level at 3-3, but Nantwich showed grit and determination to find a late winner through Alicia Hatton, sparking jubilant scenes among the home fans.
The Dabbers goals came courtesy of: Amanda Fallon (2 goals, sponsored by the NTISA), Levi Lander (1 goal, sponsored by FrontGuyGary), Alicia Hatton (1 goal, sponsored by SugaRich).
For those unable to attend, The Cat community radio brought the excitement live to listeners across Nantwich and beyond, with commentary on 107.9FM, DAB, smart speakers and online.
After a standout captain’s performance and a goal to her name, Levi Lander was named GOAT Player of the Match, receiving a £50 voucher courtesy of GOAT, Nantwich’s newest High Street bar for great food, live sport, and good times. She was presented with her prize by stadium announcer Neil Davis.
Speaking after the match, manager Dan Mellor said:
“It was a massive win at the top of the table today. We showed great quality to go 3-1 up at half-time, but when they came back to 3-3 early in the second half, the real test was how we’d respond. The character, belief and togetherness the players showed to find that late winner and then dig in with ten players says everything about this group.
“That’s what top sides do and they need to have more confidence and belief in themselves because what they’ve done in this half of the season is unbelievable. To go unbeaten in a new league after getting promotion last season takes courage and quality and this squad has that in abundance!”
The result leaves Nantwich Town FC Women sitting proudly at the top with 25 points from nine games – eight wins, one draw, no defeats, and an impressive +35 goal difference.
Fans can follow all the latest Dabbers Women’s news, match action and behind-the-scenes updates on the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NTFCLadies. Full fixture details are available at https://www.nantwichtownfc.co.uk/all-women-fixtures/.
For those inspired to get involved, Women’s Recreational Football sessions run every Tuesday (8-9pm) on the Swansway Stadium pitch. Open to anyone 16+, the sessions are perfect for fitness, fun and football. Email [email protected] for more details.