Harlequins Ladies thrash Calne to progress in County Cup

Wednesday, 24 January 2024 00:00

Bemerton Heath Harlequins Ladies are through the Wiltshire FA County Cup Semi-finals after a convincing win against Calne Town Ladies.

The game showcased Bemerton Heath Harlequins' attacking prowess; they secured a resounding 6-1 victory over Calne in the quarter-finals of the County Cup.

The match started at a blistering pace as Imogen Brady capitalized on a precise delivery from Rio Goodings within the first minute. Brady's clinical finish, guided by a well-timed cutback from Leanne Griffiths-Lower, set the tone the contest.

Calne, quick to learn from their early defensive lapse, tightened their backline, slowing the game's tempo. Bemerton dominated possession and created numerous chances, with frustration building before Griffiths-Lower doubled the lead in the 43rd minute. Amy Sanger orchestrated the play, delivering a pinpoint pass to Griffiths-Lower, who calmly slotted home her second goal of the match.

Images: Kelly Church

As the second half commenced, Calne aimed to mount a comeback. However, Bemerton's solid defensive display thwarted their efforts.

Substitutions injected fresh energy into the game, allowing Bemerton to regain control. Debutant Leanne Harvey marked her first appearance with a goal in the 60th minute, showcasing her composure with a clever finish, courtesy of another assist from the influential Sanger.

Bemerton continued to assert dominance, controlling the midfield and dictating the game's tempo. Rachel Lang, the wingback, embarked on a marauding run down the left wing, almost extending the lead with a well-struck shot. Imogen Brady, exhibiting striker's instincts, capitalized on the rebound to make it 4-0.

Leanne Harvey's solo effort in the 79th minute, a thunderous shot into the top left corner, showcased individual brilliance and further underlined Bemerton's superiority. Despite a momentary lapse that allowed Calne to pull one back, Bemerton remained in control.

Rachel Lang added her name to the scoresheet in the dying minutes with a superb turn and finish.

The referee's final whistle confirmed a comprehensive 6-1 triumph for Bemerton Heath Harlequins.

Bemerton now advances to the County Cup Semi-Finals, emerging as the lone Tier 7 team in contention and potentially setting up a clash against Swindon Town, Warminster Town, or Royal Wootton Bassett Town.

More from Local News

Residents encouraged to join Wiltshire and Swindon Countryside Access Forum

Wiltshire Council is encouraging its residents to join the Wiltshire and Swindon Countryside Access Forum (WSCAF) to share their views and advise the council on improving access to the countryside and on rights of ways matters.
Cabinet agrees new strategy to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

A plan that maps out how Wiltshire Council and partners will work with families, children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) for the next five years has been agreed.
Pommie Pilgrims walking all 42 cathedrals to take on Winchester to Salisbury

Pilgrims walking to all 42 Anglican Cathedrals are taking on the 26 miles between Winchester and Salisbury Cathedrals over the next two days, aiming to raise funds for their local church in Derbyshire.
Paddington is coming to Salisbury

Salisbury will see a Paddington bear statue arrive in the city centre as part of a trail being installed by film producers.
Police target night-time economy to tackle spiking

Wiltshire Police is increasing activity in the night-time economy as part of a national week of action to tackle spiking.
Visitors flock to Berwick St John Country Fayre

Thousands of visitors flocked to Berwick St John Country Fayre for a packed weekend of fun activities in aid of the Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity.
Be a Chorister for a Day returns to Salisbury Cathedral this October

On Saturday, October 12th, Salisbury Cathedral returns with the fun and free event Be a Chorister for a Day.
Salisbury fire station holds open day this Saturday

After the success of its open day over the last two years, Salisbury Fire Station is opening its doors to the local community again this weekend.