Sunday match of the day analysis: Flint Town United 4-3 Llanfair United

MATCH ANALYSIS

Genero Adran Trophy Group 2

Flint Town United 4 (McGilloway 15, Howarth 30, Haynes 46 & 55)
Llanfair United 3 (Cook 17, 33 & 52)

Of all the games Grassroots North Wales could have chosen to attend today, we certainly picked the right one.

Seven goals, the lead pegged back three times, some sublime skills, 100% commitment and tremendous passing and tackling from both sides.

Last season’s North Wales Women’s League East champions Flint have not had the easiest of summers ahead of their first experience as a Tier 2 club in just their third season since formation.

With defenders Emily Edwards and Sinead Beck not committing this season, plus goal-getter Tegan Crockett not regularly available, the Silkwomen had more problems today with last season’s top-scorer Zoe Stopford and midfield engine Daisy Hughes both out injured.

However, summer signings India Howarth dazzled all-roun in midfield and Alaw Jones slotted superbly into defence. Regulars Taylia Chaloner, Charlotte Walters and Chloe Hughes were outstanding at the back.

All the defenders performed brilliantly, as well as keeper Becky Bott, who showed fine handling from corners and crosses and produced some crucial late saves.

In the midfield, Rosie Hughes was phenomenal with her penetrating runs and skills, earning herself the opposition’s player of the match award. Taylia Chaloner was the choice of the Silkwomen.

Captain Ruby McGilloway was sensational as an attacking midfielder, winning so many key balls and scoring with an astonishing 25-yard missile.

Jennifer Haynes was employed in a striker’s role and rewarded that faith with two second half goals that ultimately won the match.

Kaelyn Williams made a welcome return up front and will come on for further appearances, Ruby Hastings looked dangerous in spells on the right wing, while sub Jasmine Edwards was an important asset in the final 20 as Flint sought to hold onto their lead.

For Flint’s new management set-up, it was a really pleasing start. The side played well as a unit and supported each other admirably.

On this evidence, Flint will definitely be able to compete in the Genero Adran North, especially when injured players return and possibly an addition or two is made.

Big credit to Llanfair for fighting back three times from a goal down.

They displayed tremendous team spirit and determination and on another day could have got a point at least.

Sophie Cook was top class in attack, while long-serving Mary Bailey proved once again you cannot beat experience.

Both sides could feel proud of their efforts today in what was a great advert for the league.

FLINT TOWN UNITED

Becky Bott
Taylia Chaloner
Chloe Hughes
Alaw Jones
Charlotte Walters
India Howarth
Rosie Hughes
Ruby McGilloway (c)
Kaelyn Williams (Jasmine Edwards 72)
Jennifer Haynes
Ruby Hastings