The women’s first team came out winners in a competitive match away at Hounlsow Reserves on Sunday 18 October. Karleigh Osborne put out a side much changed from their victory against Dulwich Hamlet a week ago, showing the depth of squad at their disposal.

Brentford were in for an early shock after only three minutes, when a mistake at the back allowed a Hounslow attacker to pick up a loose ball and slot it past Emily Boycott in goal. This seemed to set the tone for the first half, which turned out to be a nervy and scrappy contest, the Bees unable to convert some good chances and Hounslow rarely troubling the visitor’s goal. The crossbar then prevented the home side from doubling their advantage.

The half-time team talk resulted in a much-improved Brentford performance, and good use of a strong subs bench allowed the girls in red and white to take control.

Chances came thick and fast and so did the goals. Firstly, a collector’s item as Sophie Troth, playing further forward than usual, beat the goalie with a low left-footed shot from just inside the area. She then turned provider for Axelle Courlander to tap in from close range.

Caitlin Furness-Roe then got a well-deserved goal to make it 3-1 to the Bees, again with help from Troth. Hounslow were still pushing forward and on 72 minutes got the score back to 3-2. This proved to be just a consolation, as the visitors re-grouped and captain Mollie Holmes came on to stabilise the midfield.

Leading scorer Kaitlyn Spencer-Dempsey, who had been recently introduced to the contest, added to her tally after an assist from Jodie Reid. The scoring was completed when Holmes played a perfect ball through for Nadia Peters to make it 5-2 to Brentford.

A scrappy first half but very accomplished second half saw the Bees through to the Second Round. A great team performance with five goals from five different players, and contributions from every member of the 16-girl squad.

Back to league action next Sunday with a visit to Clapton Community WFC.