Maiden victory proves elusive

GOING FOR IT: Uppermill’s Rebecca Fox makes a tackle against Chorlts.

Uppermill Ladies 0, Chorltonians Ladies 3

UPPERMILL are still searching for their first win of the season in Division One of the Greater Manchester Women’s Football League after defeat to Chorltonians at Churchill playing fields.

And like their male counterparts, the women’s side is finding it tough after winning the Second Division title last season.

Player-manager Caroline Pinches pulled no punches when asked about the team’s winless start, albeit only three games into the season.

Pinches (35), who took over from Adam Wilson at the start of last season, said: “I don’t think it’s a big jump in standards to be honest, it’s more about us and how we can improve. We have to train harder and get fitter, but to be fair we have lost some key players.

“It was a fair result, but I’m hoping we can get our first win soon. After what we achieved last season, I am confident we can move to mid-table, or even higher.”

The women’s game has seen its profile rise after the recent exploits of the England team; this side of the game has a lot to offer and will improve.

Evidence of tactics and no lack of skill was apparent on a balmy afternoon in Uppermill and the women’s team, with an average age in the late-20s, showed plenty of passion.

Two first-half goals from Chorltonians gave Uppermill a big job to do. Uppermill’s most noteworthy effort came when Rebecca Fox drilled an 18-yard drive into the opposition goalkeeper.

Chorltonians wrapped up victory with a third goal after 77 minutes.

The open-age women’s section of Uppermill Football Club has been in operation for seven years and is well established.