CPD Pwllheli and Kinmel Bay produce a thriller that was a credit to the women’s game

NORTH WALES COAST WOMEN’S LEAGUE – FEBRUARY 22

CPD Pwllheli 1 (L Hughes 85)
Kinmel Bay 1 (Walsh 51)

Spectators were treated to a thrilling, end-to-end encounter as CPD Pwllheli Women and Kinmel Bay Ladies battled to an intense 1–1 draw – a match that truly could have gone either way.

First Half: A Showcase of Goalkeeping Brilliance

Pwllheli carved out the first big chance of the match when a well-timed ball from the back found Hayley Rees-Jones, who threaded a perfect through pass to Lois Thomas.

What looked like a certain opener was denied only by a sensational 1v1 stop from Kinmel Bay goalkeeper Shelby Wild, setting the tone for her outstanding performance.

Moments later, Kinmel Bay were inches from taking the lead when Tash Standing delivered a pinpoint corner that met the rising header of captain Seren Williams. Her effort seemed destined for the top corner until the Pwllheli keeper Sara Williams produced a fingertip save of her own.

Both sides maintained a relentless pace, with defensive lines standing firm and goalkeepers delivering exceptional stops. The half closed at 0–0, but only thanks to inspired work from both No.1s.

Second Half: Goals, Grit, and Late Drama

The second half erupted with even more intensity as both teams pushed for the breakthrough.

After sustained pressure, Kinmel Bay finally broke the deadlock in the 51st minute. A wide ball from the wing came to top-scorer Lexi Walsh, who hit a tight angled shot into the net.

Despite tired legs and increasing pressure, both sides continued to create chances. Pwllheli refused to settle, and their persistence paid off with five minutes left.

Sian Moore was through 1 on 1 with Wild and slipped the ball to defender Lowri Hughes, who calmly slotted home the equaliser.

The final minutes were fought with heart, determination, and sheer effort from both sides—an excellent advert for women’s football.

Player Awards

⭐ Kinmel Bay Player of the Match (Chosen by Pwllheli)
“Safe Hands” Shelby Wild – A phenomenal goalkeeping display, producing crucial saves including two 1v1 stops and some perfect fingertip saves.
⭐ Pwllheli Player of the Match (Chosen by Kinmel Bay)
Lowri Hughes – Rock-solid defensively and the scorer of the vital late equaliser.
⭐ Managers’ Player for Kinmel Bay
Sarah Williams – Commanded the defensive line superbly, a true brick wall throughout the 90 minutes.

A Special Farewell – club statement from Kinmel Bay

A huge and heartfelt shoutout goes to Lexi Walsh, who played her final game in a Kinmel Bay shirt today. Lexi has been an incredible asset to the club—from her junior years through to senior football.

Her goal today was a fitting reminder of her talent.

She now moves on to a higher-tier team to continue her footballing journey, and everyone at Kinmel Bay wishes her nothing but success. The club will be cheering her on every step of the way.

An outstanding match, full of passion, skill, and sportsmanship both teams left absolutely everything on the pitch.