Reserves v Plymouth Argyle Reserves

Cardiff City Ladies Reserves remain undefeated when they beat Plymouth Argyle 5-0 in their latest FA Women’s (Reserves) League Southern Division Two match held at Llanrumney on Sunday 16th October.
 
Plymouth arrived with only 10 players, which meant Cardiff were at an advantage from the kick off. However, in the first half hour it was fairly equal possession between both teams, but Cardiff seemed to create more chances for themselves. Suzie Davies playing right midfield was using her pace well and flying down the wing, taking on players, then putting in those final balls and creating good scoring opportunities.

After having plenty of scoring opportunities, Cardiff came closest when Joni Warner hit the post in the 30th minute. She was set up well by Cori Williams and struck her shot from the edge of the box only to see it scrape the wrong side of the post.

The first goal came from Williams shortly afterwards. A pass from Ellie Davies, just between the left back and centre back, saw Williams make a well-timed curved run in time to collect the ball and slip it neatly passed the keeper into the bottom corner of the net.

Another goal was closely followed, when Sinead Melinn slipped through a couple players and shot with her left foot, placing it nicely into the bottom corner of the net.
 
Just before the end of the first half Ellie Davies added her own effort to the score sheet. A throw in was taken by Sophie Cole into Melinn’s feet and she flicked it on to Davies who turned and smashed it on the volley into the back of the net.

The best chance for the visitors came when a Cardiff goal kick was controlled by the Plymouth centre back who almost lobbed keeper Sophie Dando from the half way line. Luckily Dando managed to stretch and get her hands to it ensuring that the league leaders went in at half time 3-0 to the good.
 
The fourth goal came in the 65th minute from a corner when Melinn sent the ball over to the far post and Williams jumped up above the defence to head it neatly into the back of the net, bagging her second goal of the game.

Plymouth’s chances were limited and failed to take their best opportunity when, from the right hand side, a dangerous cross was sent into the six yard box but no one was there to get to the end of it. Defender Kat Lovett was able to clear it harmlessly away.
 
The fifth and final goal came when Williams clipped the ball into the six yard box. Suzie Davies was on hand to head it home.
 
At the final whistle the Plymouth manager was very complimentary towards his hosts, commenting on the good team moral and spirit, which is always nice to hear.

Cardiff’s Player of the Match was Helen Hicks, who was taking part in her first full 90 minutes of senior football. She played very well at right back, being strong and determined when on and off the ball, making a good impression.

Substitutions made during the game by Manager Deb Ball saw Warner being replaced by Amy Davies, Suzie Davies stepping aside for Kayleigh Hateley and Rachel Griffiths taking over from two-goal Williams.

Deb Ball commented after the game, “We are really enjoying the season so far. Being at the top of the table is just fantastic. The girls have worked hard to be there and deserve the top spot. Let’s hope we can keep it up.”