PNE U16 1, HArtford Moss Farm 3

THIS fixture had third-placed Preston at home to second in the women's league Hartford Moss Farm and it proved to be a tough encounter with few chances to either team.

The game, on a heavy pitch, proved to be a mid-field tussle with Hartford Moss appearing to be the more eager to win.

Hartford took the lead after 15 minutes when a cross from the right was turned into the Preston net by one of their own defenders.

The players continued to struggle on the heavy pitch and no further goals were added in the first-half. Preston started the second-half with real determination and equalised within the first minute.

Natalie Brewer and Charlotte Benson pressured a Hartford defender, won the ball, and Brewer set up Joanne Ball whose shot was pushed onto the bar by the Hartford keeper. However, Benson was on hand to knock in the rebound.

For the next ten minutes Preston raised the tempo of the game and were looking the more likely to score.

Despite efforts by Ball and Benson Preston couldn't covert their chances while on top.

As Preston tired Hartford Moss Farm picked up their game.

The game was an even tussle until the end when Hartford scored two late goals to clinch an important victory.

Benson was named Man of the Match for a great front running performance.

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