Despite a spirited performance from the MinsterBelles, high-flying Chorley continued their fine form picking up a 5-3 win this afternoon at The Jim Fowler Memorial Fields.
Before kick-off, Emily Senior welcomed Captain Ocean Rolandsen back into the side, following suspension. Her side made an encouraging start to the game but were pegged back early on when Grace Vella’s shot found the back of the net from inside the area. The MinsterBelles were not behind for long, when Grace Sykes threaded a pass through for Katie Astle and the Striker slotted past Mollie Finch. Both sides then exchanged chances with Sidwell making a crucial save in the 15th minute before Astle flicked towards goal in the 34th minute. The home side then retook the lead just four minutes later. A short corner was whipped into the box and met by Ellie Cook, who headed past Sidwell.
Senior made a change at the break with Dani Trickett replacing Milly Ash and her side came close to equalising in the 46th minute when Karli Smith headed a Sykes corner towards goal. Chorley then extended their lead even further in the 59th minute, when the corner was whipped into the area and found the back of the net. The MinsterBelles didn’t let this affect them and hit back immediately. Rolandsen was brought down in the area and Kanisha Underdown stepped up to convert the penalty. Worthington scored her sides fourth goal in the 65th minute before Astle and Emia Hendrickson-Eastwood tested Finch with shots on target. The game was then put to bed in the 80th minute when Parker’s shot looped over Sidwell. The final action of an entertaining game came in the form of a stunning free-kick from Rolandsen. She found the top corner from the edge of the area for 5-3.
The MinsterBelles are back at home next weekend, as they welcome Cheadle Town Stingers to York Sport Stadium for the final game of 2024.
