By Myles Hocknell, photo by Josh Tyler-Williams
Nantwich Town FC Women secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory away to Preston North End, with Meg Andrews’ second-half strike proving to be the difference between the sides.
The Dabbers dominated possession during the opening stages and created the better chances, controlling much of the game up until the 24th minute. Amanda Fallon came closest to ending the deadlock with a shot that hit the post and bolted across the goal line for the Preston keeper to collect.
Preston were awarded a penalty later in the half, but Connie Watts produced a huge moment for Nantwich, saving the spot-kick to keep the scores level and preserve the Dabbers’ clean sheet.
The first half ended goalless, with either team unable to find the breakthrough.
The second half began in scrappy fashion, with neither side able to establish a clear rhythm during the opening 25 minutes.
However, Nantwich eventually found the decisive moment in the 70th minute. Mollie Newton delivered a cut-back into the box, and Meg Andrews was on hand to slot the ball home and give the Dabbers a 1-0 lead.
With the advantage secured, Nantwich remained disciplined and saw out the remainder of the game to claim all three points and a valuable clean sheet on the road.
The GOAT Player of the Match was awarded to Connie Watts for excellent penalty save and decision making throughout the game. Connie received a £50 voucher from our friends at GOAT Nantwich.
Starting 11: Connie Watts, Sasha Johnson, Mollie Newton, Sam Cawley, Layla Woollam, Katie Greenwood, Meg Andrews, Meg Ragdale (C), Amanda Fallon, Tegan Ansell, Corie Mather.
Substitutes: Abi Poulton, Alicia Hatton, Katie Naylor, Poppy Emery, Charlotte Crees.
Nantwich Town FC Women now turn their attention to the FA Cup, which sees them travel to play Hednesford Town FC in the Third Qualifying Round of the competition.