[P]enrith AFC Ladies once again suffered heart ache at the final hurdle as they lost a tight Womens County Cup Final to Carlisle United Ladies.
Having already missed out on the League title on the last game of the season now the County Cup slipped from their grasps as a late United goal proved decisive.
Manager Simon Savage admitted: “It’s been a tough end to the season for us. We had got ourselves into a great position but first the League and now the County Cup have eluded us. The ladies are hurting at present but I’m sure with time, they will bounce back, stronger for the experience.”
Carlisle United started the game the brighter and pinned Penrith in their own half for long periods. Despite the pressure Penrith were defending well and limited Uniteds opportunities. Penrith were struggling to get their passing game going and rarely threatened United.
HT 0-0
The game continued to be a tight affair into the 2nd half. United again started the better but gradually Penrith began to force their way into the game.
The pace of the game finally began to take its toll in the final quarter of the game and chances came for both teams. Penrith were sure they had scored in the 81st min when Sophie Nutter’s shot appeared to cross the line after hitting the post but the lines man failed to agree.
United finally broke the deadlock in the 88th min when they got behind the Penrith defence on the left and pulled the ball back for Clare Almond to force the ball over the line.
There was no time for Penrith to respond and Carlisle United claimed a deserved victory.
Penrith are now taking a well earned rest before they regroup for the new season.
Penrith: Jones, J Williams, Grisedale, C.Smith, Lorenzi, Walton(Nelson), Nutter(Scott), Coulthard, S.Smith(Brierley), Hopton(McCormick), Broad.
