Womens 2s vs Cambridge City W1

Harleston Magpies Women’s 2s faced a tough challenge on home turf as they hosted a quick and clinical Cambridge City Women’s 1s side, ultimately falling to an 8-0 defeat. Despite the scoreline, the Magpies showed moments of strong defensive play and promising attacking intent.

First Quarter – Fast Start from Cambridge

The visitors wasted no time, scoring just 30 seconds into the match to take an early 1-0 lead. They doubled their advantage shortly after, applying relentless pressure with their pace and slick ball movement.

Despite going 2-0 down early, the Magpies responded well, with several important defensive interventions and a particularly solid showing from goalkeeper Meg, who pulled off some excellent saves. Rosie provided some attacking relief with a few aerials into Cambridge’s defensive third, but the away side remained dominant, adding a third goal before the end of the quarter.

Second Quarter – Tempers Flare, Magpies Show Fight

Cambridge extended their lead to 4-0 before receiving a card for an overly physical challenge, giving the Magpies a brief numerical advantage. The hosts continued to defend with resilience, but Cambridge capitalised on their chances to make it 5-0.

Before half-time, Harleston began to create attacking opportunities of their own. A well-earned short corner was saved, but it marked a positive spell for the Magpies. Another short followed shortly after with a good attacking shot that forced a stop from the Cambridge defence. A green card for obstruction saw a Magpies player temporarily sent off, but Tibbs responded with a determined solo run that nearly broke the Cambridge line. A final short corner before the break went just wide, but the Magpies ended the half with their heads up.

Third Quarter – Spirited Response from the Magpies

The third quarter ended goalless, showcasing a much-improved performance from Harleston. Coming out with renewed spirit, the Magpies maintained a strong defensive shape, repelling several Cambridge attacks and continuing to frustrate the visitors on short corners.

Final Quarter – Cambridge Finish Strong

Despite a solid third quarter, fatigue began to show, and Cambridge found the net again to extend their lead to 6-0 and then 7-0. A card for Cambridge briefly reduced them to 10 players, and the Magpies continued to push for a goal. A well-won short corner was saved once again, summing up a frustrating afternoon in front of goal.

Cambridge wrapped up the scoring late on with their eighth goal, sealing a dominant performance.