[A] youthful Penrith AFC Ladies front line produced an exciting attacking performance full of pace and clinical finishing as they defeated local rivals Workington Reds Ladies.
Penrith lined up without top scorer Nat Broad who was unwell. This opened the door for youngster Becca Alderson to step up from the clubs Development team and show what she could offer in the central striking role. She quickly obliged firing Penrith into the lead in only the 2nd minute.
The pace of wide players Sarah Smith and Georgia Campbell was constantly stretching the Workington defence. On 14 mins these players linked up when Campbell crossed the ball for Smith who nipped in front of her marker to score 2-0.
On the 20th minute Smith repaid the compliment. She raced down the left wing and curled a cross towards the back post when Campbell brilliantly fired home in full stride 3-0.
With confidence high, Penrith pressed home their advantage. Hannah Coulthard extended the lead when she controlled the ball on her thigh before firing home from the edge of the penalty area 4-0.
Before halftime Coulthard netted again when her free kick dipped over Workington’s defensive wall and nestled in to the bottom former of the net.
HT 5-0
Three minutes into the 2nd half Coulthard completed her 2nd hat trick of the season. She scored from the penalty spot after a Workington defender handled the ball on the line.
Workington, to their credit, stuck to their task well and prevented any further Penrith goals largely thanks to a string of fine saves from their keeper Miller.
FT 6-0
This Sunday Penrith AFC Ladies face a daunting trip to face current League Cup holders FC United (of Manchester).
Penrith: Jones, Nelson, J.Williams, S.Smith, McCormick(Nutter), P.Williams(Johnston), Campbell, Coulthard(Fawkes), Alderson, Hopton, S.Smith.
