Brentford fought back from a goal down to secure a 1-1 draw against title challengers Islington Borough on Sunday at Bedfont Sports Club.
The Bees went into the break a goal down despite a positive opening half following a long-range Islington strike. Brentford had to wait until the final minute of the game to get their goal and it was Chelsie Berry who netted an incredible bicycle kick to ensure a well-deserved point.
Brentford enjoyed large spells of possession in the opening 20 minutes of the game and came close to scoring through Holly Hawkes.
The forward got on the end of Taniela De Almedia’s cross, but her shot went just wide of the post.
Islington only had one shot on goal in the opening half and found the net 22 minutes into the game.
A shot from 40-yards flew over Emily Maving in the Brentford net leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Despite the Islington goal, it was Brentford who remained in control of the game with the side pressing Islington high up the pitch.
Before the break the hosts nearly levelled the game up, but Chelsie Berry’s shot was well saved by the visiting goalkeeper.
The home side continued to dominate the ball with second half substitute Abi Claringbold coming close next with her effort from inside the box going just wide.
Brentford were a threat from set-pieces and could have levelled the score line when Elle Payne had a free header, but her effort was well stopped by the Islington keeper.
The hosts were eventually rewarded for all their hard work when a last-minute corner from Rosie Redman set up Berry who hit a perfect bicycle kick to level the score.
Brentford Women B: Maving, Henry, Redman, De Almeida, McPherson-Maraj, Abou-Abdallah, Elsbury, Logan, Ali, Hawkes, Berry
Subs: Claringbold, Payne, Bowman
Yannawit Khantharat praises team’s desire
After collecting his first point as Brentford Women B head coach, Yannawit Khantharat said he was proud of his side who battled hard throughout the 90 minutes.
“We knew it was going to be a tough game as we faced the current table-toppers in our league,” said Khantharat.
“I was really pleased with how we kept the ball and also how we defended when we needed to, we remained disciplined and organised throughout.
“It was great to see the ladies were up for the challenge. We have had some disappointing results recently, but they were a credit to themselves against Islington.”