Penrith claimed the spoils after a battling performance on the road in South Manchester.
A bobbly pitch made football difficult for both teams and the match quickly turned into a battle of attrition.
Stingers had the better of the early exchanges however it was Penrith who took the lead on after 18 mins. A poor clearance by the Stingers keeper was ceased upon by Heather Fawkes. She met the ball sweetly and from fully 40 years sent the ball sailing over the stranded keeper and into the net.
Stingers continued to press for an equaliser while Penrith soaked up the pressure and relied on the counter attack.
HT 0-1
Penrith were expecting a strong response from Stingers at the start of the 2nd half but it was Penrith who started brightly and stunned Stingers by extending their lead in the 47th min. Penrith won the ball high on the right. A quick switch of play by Heather Fawkes found Livvy Johnston free on the left. She controlled the ball well before sweeping it past the advancing keeper.
Penrith, with a lead to defend, sub consciously sank deeper and deeper towards their own goal. Keeper Michelle Jones was again in outstanding form when called upon and made 2 superb saves.
In the 78th minute the Stingers pressure was rewarded when Charlotte Smith was adjudged to have handled the ball and Stingers scored from the penalty spot.
Penrith had to hang on for a nervy last 12 mins but professionally saw out the game to claim 3 much needed points.
FT 1-2
Penrith: Jones, Alderson, Han Fawkes, C.Smith, McCormick, Hea Fawkes(Smethurst), Nutter, Johnston, Buchanan(Campbell),Hopton, Gaulton.
