By Jonathan White, photos by Peter Robinson
Nantwich Town FC Women continued their superb start to the season with a stunning 6-1 victory in the second round qualifying of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup – extending their unbeaten run in all competitions to seven matches.
The Dabbers put on a sparkling display at the Swansway Stadium on Sunday 21st September, sweeping aside Halesowen Town Ladies with a second-half goal blitz.
Manager Dan Mellor, marking his 100th game in charge, made just one change from the previous week’s win over Chester FC, with Sam Cawley back in the starting XI. Jade Buckley-Ratcliff also returned to the squad after her injury, starting from the bench.
Despite dominating the first half, Nantwich only went into the break 1-0 up thanks to Amanda Fallon’s opener. But after the restart, the Dabbers turned on the style, firing home five more goals to secure an emphatic win. Fallon added a second, with further strikes from Josie Alderman, captain Meg Ragdale (2), and Alicia Hatton (2).
Dabbers starting XI: 1. C. Swindell, 2. H. Knight, 3. P. Smith, 4. A. Mayer, 5. S. Cawley, 6. K. Greenwood, 7. J. Alderman, 8. M. Baldwin, 9. A. Fallon, 11. M. Ragdale (captain), 12. L. Lander. Subs: A. Hatton, L. Bulkeley, M. O’Connor, E. Macdonald, J. Buckley-Ratcliff, N. Harding.
Midfield maestro Meg Baldwin was named GOAT Player of the Match for her outstanding performance, receiving a £50 voucher from Nantwich’s new High Street sports bar and restaurant.
Captain Ragdale was voted Namie Home Player’s Player of the Match, capping off a fantastic display with two goals.
Manager Mellor was full of praise for his players:
“Today was a fantastic performance from the whole squad. To win 6 – 1 in the FA Cup is special in itself, but the manner in which we did it was even more pleasing. From the first whistle we played with energy, composure and real quality on the ball, some of the best football we’ve produced so far this season.
“Every player stuck to their role, trusted the game plan, and showed exactly what we’re capable of as a team. The goals were spread around, the movement off the ball was excellent and defensively we were organised and brave. I couldn’t be prouder of the group, it was a proper team performance, and it gives us great confidence to take into the next round and the rest of the season.”
The day was made even more memorable as it marked Mellor’s 100th game in charge of the Dabbers – a milestone hailed by the club.
Community Director Richard Embley said:
“100 games as a manager, these days, is a tremendous milestone to celebrate and also reflect on how far we have come, in the 4 seasons Dan has now been in charge. Dan has a unique blend of skill, passion and drive, which coupled with a tremendous desire to win, makes him a great fit for Nantwich Town.
“We are now unbeaten in the league for 12 months and sitting at a win rate in all competitions of 80% plus over a 2 year period, which are alone remarkable statistics. Big thanks to Becki, Dan’s wife, also for supporting Dan on his coaching journey with Nantwich Town and we all really look forward to the next 100 games and our continued success and progression.”
The Adobe Women’s FA Cup third round qualifying draw has paired Nantwich with an away trip to Ponteland United, who play in the North East Regional Women’s Football League Premier Division. The tie takes place on Sunday 5th October 2025, with the winners banking £4,000 in prize money.
Fans can follow all the latest Dabbers news, action and behind-the-scenes updates on the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NTFCLadies.
Full fixture details are at: https://www.nantwichtownfc.co.uk/all-women-fixtures/.