Watford Ladies FC U18 Warriors edged a highly competitive County Cup match against Royston Town as they won 2-1 in North Hertfordshire.
There was nothing to choose between the two sides in the opening exchanges, but Watford gradually got into their stride. Safiya Dean had two good chances before finishing off a flowing move to put the visitors ahead after 23 minutes. They kept up the pressure and a composed run and finish by Charlotte Forster gave Watford a commanding half time lead.
Royston came out strongly in the second half though and within a few minutes had pulled a goal back. They threatened to score more but Watford clung on to secure a quarter final tie against Sarratt Rebels.
Watford’s U13 Harts meanwhile faced Stevenage Starlets with both teams looking to push up the league. Watford started well with Diana Oliveira squeezing home a shot between the keeper and post. With Watford’s confidence rising Loula-Belle Grace calmly slotted home their second. Stevenage piled on the pressure after the break but in a great counter-attack Matilda Mantle crossed for Tracey Yeboah to make it 3-0. A stunning 25-yard freekick into the top corner gave Stevenage some hope before Yeboah scored her second to seal a 4-1 win. The U12 Harts found themselves1-0 down away to Bedmond Youth just after kick-off. They grew into the game though and soon after the break Sinead Haysman’s long-range effort looped over the keeper to bring the scores level. Watford continued to dominate, taking the lead shortly after with Libby Whyte firing into the bottom corner, her first goal for the club. Haysman tapped in her second before Sophia Garrett found the net to make it 4-1.
WLFC’s Technical Director Daniele Denyer said “We’re particularly pleased with the Harts development teams’ progress. It’s important that the club is thriving on all levels.”
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