Blues remain unbeaten after latest triumph
Pompey Ladies continued their unbeaten start to the season with a comfortable 5-1 victory over Coventry at Privett Park.
The hosts broke the deadlock after just 10 minutes when Leeta Rutherford rose highest to convert Nadine Bazan’s free-kick.
But they received a blow midway through the first half, with Molly Clark stretchered off following a high tackle.
And things got even worse as Amber Hughes took advantage of some sloppy defending to fire Coventry level.
There was still time for the Blues to restore their lead before the break, however, and Shannon Sievwright popped up to score following a scramble in the box.
And Ini Umotong extended it early in the second half with a neat improvised finish after collecting Gemma Hillier’s pass and falling to the ground.
Gemma Simmonds then took control and bagged Pompey’s fourth of the afternoon before collecting Umotong’s cut-back to complete the rout.
Blues boss Perry Northeast said: “The girls were really geared up for this game and were fantastic all over the pitch.
“They executed their game-plan really well and I was delighted with the performance of the entire team.
“The scoreline made it sound like an absolute mauling, but Coventry actually made us work very hard and did well in possession.
“I still think they could challenge for the title and hopefully we will be in the same position, although it’s still very early in the season.
“It was encouraging to see so many of the girls not only getting on the scoresheet, but also creating goals.
“There are different players contributing every week at the moment and showing their value to our squad.”
Pompey: Blakely; Frampton, Rutherford, Clark (Sievwright 24), Bazan; Atkinson, Kempson, Quinn; Hillier (Tewkesbury 85), Wilson (c) (Simmonds 70), Umotong
Subs not used: Benson, Bloomfield
Pompey Ladies are in action at Privett Park again this Wednesday (7.45pm kick-off), when they host QPR. Tickets are priced £4 for adults and £2 for concessions.