UPTON Ladies travelled to Droitwich on Saturday knowing this would be a difficult game, particularly being a player short.

DROITWICH II 0, UPTON LADIES 1

Droitwich started the stronger putting the Upton defence under early pressure, keeper Sue Murphy making a vital save early on.

Laura Smith was as ever tireless in the midfield, her constant running compensating for the missing player. Trudy Warner making some telling tackles in the first half ensuring Droitwich worked hard for the ball. With Janet Goodier, playing on the right wing, putting in some telling crosses Droitwich could not get complacent and Bev Ingram was unlucky not to score when the home keeper made a diving save.

In the second half Upton settled into the game holding onto the ball more and making it difficult for Droitwich.

Martha Recordon playing her usual good game giving excellent support to the forwards, as well as making some vital tackles in defence. Despite pulling a muscle Vanessa Dawe stayed wide on the left wing giving a vital link to the other forwards. The breakthrough came following a shot by Bev Ingram, who having received the ball took in past the Droitwich defence and shot from the top of the D. Despite the initial shot being saved by the Droitwich keeper the rebound was calmly put away by Janet Goodier who was unmarked.

Having made the breakthrough Upton were determined to ensure a win. Droitwich won a number of short corners, which their short corner specialist was unable to convert, Jacky Farley quickly off the line to block the shots. Jenny Parkes also making some excellent covering tackles.

Upton had a penalty stroke awarded against them, but again the Droitwich penalty specialist was unable to convert, keeper Sue Murphy making a fine save.

Although down to nine players for a short time, Bev Ingram having to receive attention for an injury, Upton kept Droitwich out maintaining their excellent record.

Upton were pleased with this hard fought win which was the last league game before Christmas. Thanks to Clive Fletcher for umpiring. The player of the match was a tie between Martha Recordon and Jacky Farley.

Tickets are still available for the Ladies Night being organised by Upton Ladies on Wednesday, December 12 at Upton, call 0776 803 1274 for details and tickets.