MIDDLESBOROUGH LADIES 1ROCHDALE AFC LADIES 2

With the ground staff  working on Middlesborough's normal pitch at Billingham the game was changed to Boro's new facility at Darlington but on 3G pitch instead of grass.

Dale started well putting early pressure on Boro's defence, Rachael Wood's cross only just missed by an incoming Lizzie Paul diving body. Dale continued to carry the game to Boro but early injuries to Jennie Cummins (toe) and Anna Renken (Foot) disrupted Dale's play.

Against the run of play Boro took the lead after Kim Hines sliced a ball off her foot and it beat Dale's defence for an own goal just minutes before half time.

At the restart again Dale dominated play but only Boro's keeper kept the home side in the game. Anna Renken retired hurt and a reshuffle saw the entry of Lisa Wood at right mid field, Wood made an immediate input shooting at the Boro's goal forcing a brilliant save. Dale's dominance paid off as Holly Newman collected a throw in from Claire Pearson, Holly chipped the ball over Boro's defence and Lizzie Paul's acrobatic leap connected with ball beating Boro's keeper, a fantastic finish.

Dale were flying and looking for the winner but Boro could have taken the lead but for Lauren Bracewell's diving save. Claire Pearson swept up everything Boro threw at the defence Jennie Cummins and Lyndsey Burtonwood worked well in defence. Steph Bell and Sarah Buffel took centre mid by the scruff of the neck winning most of the tackles and important headers. Dale's pressure paid off after the third corner on the trot by Rachael Wood found Steph Bell rising highest to head down in to the six yard box and Lizzie Paul pounced driving home from close range on the 70^th minute capping off a great day for this young Dale striker.

An important three points in Dale's title challenge and a fighting overall performance despite being behind at the break.

Dale's next game is away at Bradford City Ladies