Title-winning Town Ladies close in on perfect season

Harrogate Town Ladies captain Lindsey Whitton receives the North Riding Womens Football League trophy. Pictures: Caught Light Photography

Jon Maloney’s team, who wrapped up the league title last week, eased to a comfortable 7-0 success over their visitors at the CNG Stadium to make it 15 wins from 15 league games.

And a good day got even better for the club when they were presented with their league winners trophy at full-time.

“It was a brilliant occasion and a great day all round,” boss Maloney said.

Carey Huegett converts from the penalty spot to put her side ahead against Poppleton

“The girls and I were delighted to get our hands on the trophy and it was nice to be able to do so at the CNG Stadium in front of a big crowd and with so many fans, friends and family members watching on.”

Town got off to a flying start in Sunday’s contest and found themselves 3-0 up inside the opening quarter of an hour.

Carey Huegett gave them an early lead when she converted from the penalty spot after she had been brought down following a mazy run into the penalty area.

Rebecca Davies doubled the lead soon afterwards, tucking away a loose ball after her initial header came back off the crossbar, and the same player then found the back of the net from inside the six-yard box following a goalmouth scramble.

Fay Woollard challenges a Poppleton player

There were no more goals before the interval, but the hosts added another four strikes to their tally in a one-sided second period.

Huegett went on to complete her hat-trick, while Amy Hesselden and Hannah Stephenson also got their names on the scoresheet.

Francesca Smith was named Town’s player of the match following an impressive display in the right wing-back position.

The Ladies will be looking to make it 16 wins out of 16 and finish the campaign with their 100 per cent league record intact when they travel to Stokesley Ladies for their final game of the season on March 26.