Dale Women were defeated 4-3 by top-of-the-table Hyde United FC Ladies on Sunday in the Greater Manchester Women's Football League.
Lee Atkinson’s side faced a tough test on Sunday as they were narrowly beaten by the league leaders.
“Sunday’s game, as we knew, was going to be tough,” said Atkinson.
“They are the league leaders, and they are in great form.
“We didn’t have the best of starts as Hyde scored following a mix-up at the back.
“We pushed for an equaliser but were hit on the counterattack by Hyde’s impressive striker.
“We had a lot to do, but we continued to try and break the opposition down, and we did get a breakthrough as Ellie Fergus struck an unstoppable shot past the Hyde keeper.
“Unfortunately, not long after, we lost Ellie to an injury. We’re hoping that it’s nothing too serious, as Ellie has just returned to the squad.
“We continued to push, looking for an equaliser, but Hyde punished us again to make it 3-1.
“Amara did get one back for us after an impressive solo run, giving us a chance going into the break at 3-2.
“In the second-half we started to play our usual football, and we were creating good chances. We looked like the more likely side to score, but again, we were caught out by the Hyde striker, who finished her chance very well.
“We had a number of free-kicks as well as other opportunities, but we were unable to find the net up until Hannah’s spectacular effort.
“She struck the ball from the right-hand side, and it flew into the top corner.
“We then pushed and pushed for an equaliser, but it wasn’t to be, and Hyde won the game 4-3.
“After the game, we were all disappointed with the result, and we know that we have to be better going forward, but it’s very early days in the league still for us, and we’ve still got a lot to play for.
“I have massive belief in this group, and I know that I’ll get a great reaction from them at training this week. Then we’ll look forward to a home game against West Didsbury Reserves.”
That league game against West Didsbury & Chorlton AFC Women’s Reserves is being played at Rochdale St Clements [OL11 5EX] and is kicking off at 2pm this Sunday.