Kinmel Bay stars edge through to Betty Pickering Shield Final

BETTY PICKERING SHIELD SEMI-FINALS

Airbus UK Broughton 0
Kinmel Bay 1 (Chesters 59)

Amy Chesters’ 21st goal of the season ensured Kinmel Bay advanced to the final of the Betty Pickering Shield where a meeting with CPDM Henllan awaits.

A tightly-contested last four clash at the Hollingsworth Group Stadium sww Airbus apply early pressure, forcing Kinmel Bay into a tactical adjustment within the opening 10 minutes as they shifted formation to gain better control in defence.

Despite this, Airbus continued to create chances, testing Bay’s goalkeeper Shelby Wild, who produced an outstanding 1v1 save to keep the score level.

In the 30th minute, Bay made their first substitution. When youngster Lexie McEvoy was winded in a 50/50 tackle on came Millie Sergent, who proved solid at the back.

Half-time: 0-0

The breakthrough finally came just before the hour when midfielder Georgia Williams delivered a moment of brilliance with a pinpoint pass to Chesters, who calmly slotted the ball past the Airbus keeper to give Bay the lead.

Airbus pushed forward in search of an equaliser, forcing Wild into another fine finger-tip save, but the visitors stood firm.

A second substitution in the 65th minute saw Alys Marsh-Hughes help shore up their defence as they saw out the final stages of the game.

Both teams had their moments, with chances at each end, but it was Kinmel Bay who held on to secure a vital win to secure their place in the Betty Pickering Shield Final.

Bay’s Player of the Match voted for by Airbus was Jen Small, who gave a solid display at the back.

Winning manager Naomii Oakley said: “Today’s game could have gone either way with both teams battling hard. Airbus definitely had the edge over Kinmel Bay with their young players’ stamina. Noticing this early on we made a change in formation moving to a more defensive game.

“In the end it was sheer drive, determination and teamwork that won it for Kinmel Bay. Every single player for both teams gave 100% and should all be applauded for their effort.

“I’ve got to mention the perfect pass from Georgia Williams who played the long ball over the heads of the Airbus defence with it landing just in front of Chesters who drilled the ball into the back of the net. It’s possibly the best pass I’ve seen all season and 100% the pass that gave us the win.

“Secondly the moments of absolute brilliance from keeper Shelby Wild, who made an absolute cracking 1v1 save in the first half reacting fast off her line, and two incredible fingertip saves in the second half, to keep a clean sheet.

“Great game of ladies football, and we wish Airbus luck with the rest of the season.”