Workington Reds Ladies came back with a highly creditable 1-1 from their visit to Haslingden Girls and Ladies FC.
The home team held a 100 per cent league record before the game started so the Reds Ladies were the first team this season to take any points off a well organised and confident team.
The effort, commitment and quality of football played by both teams was excellent and as such the game was evenly contested and chances from either team were few and far between.
The result saw the Reds Ladies extend their unbeaten run to five games and they remain in third place in the league.
Manager Pasul Mackenzie said: “Up next for us is a home game against Penrith Ladies FC at the Lakes College (2pm) on Sunday. Any support for the team would be greatly appreciated by us all, especially for a derby game.”
Reds struck first just before half time through a goal that wasn’t reflective of the patience of build-up play throughout the 90 minutes.
It was, however, a display of taking an advantage when it presents itself as well as strength and vision.
Haslingden had been pushing forward and the Reds defence had held strong. The ball found its way to the ever alert Caitlin Davis about 20 yards inside her own half.
She quickly composed herself and tried to play a ball in behind the Haslingden defence only to be collected by a defender.
Strong play and pressure from Hayley Bracken forced a mistake and the Workington player gained possession ten yards inside the opponents half.
She then used her strength and pace to bear down on the charging Haslingden keeper, who she rounded before slotting the ball home for a deserved goal lead.
Haslingden started the second half strongly but again the Reds defensive work across the park was class and this limited their chances. However, the hosts managed to level the game just after the 70 minute mark.
As the game neared the final stages the Reds managed to build a couple of chances through some good periods of possession and strong running.
The first fell to Chloe Henderson who narrowly shot wide with five minutes remaining and in the dying seconds of the game a spilled ball from a corner fell at the feet of Bracken only to be lifted just over the bar.
As well as adding to her goal tally Bracken also picked up Reds’ Player of the Game for the second week running.
