Report, quotes and pics from Thursday’s East Midlands derby in the FA Premier League Northern Division.
Derby started the stronger side quickly putting pressure on the Forest back line who responded with some resolute defending to prevent the Rams taking advantage. Forest gradually stepped up the tempo with some intricate work from Elizabeta Ejupi and Natasha Meade, eventually finding Shannon Weston to punt forward for Amelia Robb to head towards goal.
Annabel McKechnie had many chances throughout the game but Derby did enough to close and apply pressure as shots hit the side netting or went wide of the target. Derby had a few chances but were also closed down with equal vigour until County’s best chance forced Vanessa Kinnerley into a fingertip save for a corner, which was finally headed clear by Kelly Kennaugh.
Pictured: Forest Captain Kelly Kennaugh jumps high to head clear
Charlotte Griffin and Weston battled for Forest in midfield to win possession and spread the play to Andi Bell, who had threatened with pace on the forward line. Bell was brought down as a result of her work and gifted a free-kick taken well by Demi Greenan. allowing an unmarked McKechnie to smash the ball into the net at the far post on 38 minutes.
Pictured: Kelly Kennaugh battles with Derby’s Katie Lowder
Derby responded with some half chances in the second half but the Forest defence remained resolute. Chances for both sides ensued but with Forest just edging the possession, the second and final goal of the game arrived on 81 minutes.
Bell again broke forward and attempted a through ball to Meade but Derby intercepted only for McKechnie to steal in and slot through to Meade, who did well to outpace the defence and slide the ball into the net and seal the points for the first of two league meetings of the notorious local rivals.
Pictured: Forest’s Mascots – their U-9s, 10s and 11s, the ‘Diddy Reds’
Derby Manager, Stuart Wilson was disappointed as he had overseen a remarkable change of fortune since joining the club back in February. “We made a number of simple errors at times and didn’t compete” said the Rams boss.
“I was expecting more passion from the group in a game such as this, however it didn’t appear to be there and Forest were good value for their win.
Forest Manager Sam Winch was conversely elated after the game: “A fantastic result and performance against local rivals Derby County LFC. With 3 clean sheets and 15 goals scored in the last 3 games, we are starting to build some real momentum. It is important we take this into Sunday’s performance.”
Head Coach, Steve Stennett added: “This was a good night’s work and nothing more than the team deserved with its hard work, desire, and endeavour. A special mention must go to our young junior players who led out the teams as mascots and who are the players of the future. And a big thank you to all the supporters – over 200 – who came and witnessed a great advert for Women’s football.”
Words – NFLFC / Photos – Kev Randall & Sidney Whitman
SHE KICKS – the online community for women’s football
