COVENTRY City Ladies boss Craig Nicholls says he was delighted with his sides’ second half performance in their 4-1 victory at local rivals Wolverhampton Wanders Ladies.
The two wides were level at the break at Hednesford on Sunday afternoon with Danielle Selmes cancelling out Maz Gauntlett’s sixth minute opener.
But the visitors stepped their performance up a gear in the second period and further goals from Helen Dermody, Samantha Quayle and Karen Clough ensured the Sky Blues extended their unbeaten run in Premier League Northern Division to eight matches.
Another three points sees Nicholls’ side move up to second in the table level on points with leaders Sheffield FC.
“It was a disappointing first half performance and a few home truths were shared at half time,” said Nicholls.
“There was a few tired legs and tired minds today after Thursday’s tough game.
“The response in second half was first class though and we were much better, we looked like a different team.
“Sometimes we have to open our eyes and look at where we can improve, and there was a definite improvement second half, another three points.”
The Sky Blues made the short journey to the black country high in confidence following Thursday’s home win over Sporting Club Albion.
Both Dermody and Quayle wasted good chances early on before the deadlock was broken on 18 minutes when Gauntlett fired the Sky Blues in front with an exquisite volley.
Conceding sparked Wolves into action and six minutes before the break they pulled back on level terms through Selmes who beat Sue Wood with a clever flicked header from ten yards out.
Selmes almost bagged her second immediately after the break but this time Wood was on-hand to make the stop and as the Sky Blues began to take control of the match they were able to take the lead once again on 56 minutes.
Callan Barber set Dermody free with a beautiful pass and the City midfielder showed great composure to make it 2-1.
The advantage was increased with 20 minutes to go when Quayle bagged her third goal in two matches.
And four minutes later Clough sealed the win by rounding the Wolvers goalkeeper and slotting home into an empty net.
*Coventry City Ladies are hosting a fundraising event on October 18 at Warwick University as the whole club prepares to swim the channel.
All Members of the club ranging from under-11’s to board members will enter the water and embark on an 8-hour swim in an attempt to complete 1416 lengths, which equates to 21 miles – the distance of the channel.
Money raised will help support the club and improve the quality of facilities and opportunities.
Any sponsorship towards the event would be greatly received. Contact [email protected] for further details.
