Spalding United Women delivered a commanding performance to secure a 4-0 victory over Leverington Sports, maintaining their position at the top of the table and keeping everything firmly in their own hands as the season reaches its decisive stage.
Played in challenging, hot conditions, Spalding started brightly and looked dangerous from the outset.
An early effort from Ivy Lane hinted at what was to come, as the home side quickly settled into their rhythm despite early pressure from Leverington.
The breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute. Tara Parker drove forward and forced a save from the Leverington goalkeeper, but Lane reacted quickest to slot home the rebound and give Spalding a deserved lead.
Spalding continued to press, creating chances through the lively Phoebe Richards-Reeves and the ever-dangerous Parker.
Their persistence paid off late in the first half with two quick-fire goals.
First, Richards-Reeves produced a moment of brilliance, surging down the wing before lifting the ball over the goalkeeper to double the lead.
Moments later, she turned provider, pulling the ball back for Nicola Krajewska to fire home and make it 3-0 at the break.
The second half saw Spalding maintain control, with solid defensive work ensuring Leverington rarely threatened.
In midfield and attack, Spalding continued to create opportunities with a sustained attacking display.
The fourth and final goal arrived in the 71st minute, when Grace Hill delivered an excellent ball into the box for Alesha Rix, who calmly finished to cap off a dominant performance.
Despite further chances, including efforts hitting the bar and forcing saves, the scoreline remained 4-0 at full time – an emphatic result that underlines Spalding’s title credentials.
Player of the match was Chloe Biggadike, whose defensive strength, leadership, and quality delivery from set pieces were instrumental throughout.
Spalding now turn their attention to the Lincolnshire County Women’s Cup Final, where they will face Lincoln United Women on Friday, May 1 (7.45pm) at Boston United, with silverware on the line and an opportunity to cap off their impressive campaign in style.
Pictures by Keira Thurston.
