WOMEN’S WELSH CUP: Nomads overcome a tough test at much-improved Bangor

BUTE ENERGY WELSH CUP SECOND QUALIFYING ROUND – OCT 18

Bangor City 1876 0
Connah’s Quay Nomads 2 (Slack 32, Galeandro 90+5)

Results may not be going their way at present but Bangor City 1876 could certainly be described as the most improved team in Adran North.
On Sunday, the Citizens gave current Tier 2 champions Connah’s Quay Nomads a really tough test in a Welsh Cup battle at Bangor City Stadium.
The main difference was in the finishing. Bangor are not getting the goals their play merits, while Nomads are experts at taking their chances when they arrive.
Nomads started strongly and missed a golden chance in the 17th minute when Rosie Hughes fired wide of an open net.
A great strike from Mel Barlow in the 20th minute from about 30 yards out on the half volley was goalbound until City keeper Catrin Roberts made a great save.
In the 26th minute, Hughes was fouled in the box – penalty. Hughes failed to break the deadlock, though, Roberts producing a brilliant save diving to her left.
Six minutes later, Nomads took the lead.
Hughes laid the ball off to Hannah Slack, who took a touch and lashed into the back of the net.
Bangor responded and forced a fine stop from Faye Moseley soon after.
Nomads dominated the rest of the half and into the second stanza, but couldn’t quite capitalise on their opportunities.
The visitors made some changes to bring on fresh legs, giving ex-Wrexham defender Erin Lovett her debut and changing the midfield and attack.
Around the 70 minute mark Lexi Walsh had an attempt saved by Roberts followed shortly after by a cross from Slack resulting in Meg Galeandro firing over the bar.
Bangor grew into the game and it was end to end for the last 10 minutes.
A 91st minute free kick taken by Sioned Phillips hit the crossbar. From the rebound, Phillips tried again but Moseley produced a great save.
Then came Nomads’ killer second.
A goal kick taken by Evie Chard found its way to Slack who fired the ball across goal. Bangor defender Carol Lewis put a tackle in, but Galeandro’s sharpness enabled her to score.
Unfortunately Lewis injured herself in the process and had to be stretchered off. Bangor thanked the Nomads physio who attended to her.