Page 11 - Women's Soccer Scene Issue No.29 2022-23

Richmond Park Development 1 Beecholme Belles 2
Beecholme Belles all but secured the South East
Counties League Surrey Division One title with
a 2-1 win over nearest rivals Richmond Park
Development in a thrilling showdown contest.
Richmond led for nearly an hour of their
final match of a fine season but two quickfire
strikes midway through the second half saw the
league leaders turn things around. With two
matches to play, Belles need a point to be
mathematically out of reach but their massive
goal difference advantage means they cannot
realistically be caught.
The teams had played out a goalless draw
earlier in the season but this time was different.
Both sides played some excellent pass and
move build up play much of the time but it was Sam Bird slides in to make a challenge on Erin Korcz
a simple lofted ball up the middle which allowed (www.jamesprickett.co.uk).
skipper Erin Korcz to run clear and finish neatly
past the advancing Niamh Kelly on eleven minutes.
Beecholme got into a number of good shooting positions as the match progressed but
found it difficult to get their efforts on target. Hannah Bowles was closest with an effort
from distance though a later header from a free kick was sent wide from close range.
Richmond had plenty of good situations close to goal too as the two sides traded moments
of danger in a fast paced and highly competitive half.
Richmond impressed with their well constructed moves from short goal kicks,
especially down the right side with winger Mashail Bhatti a threat with pace and good
control. However it was the visitors who looked more and more threatening. Playing
patient passing football, Beecholme kept knocking at the door with substitute Violet Powell
and Amy Potkins going close to the equaliser.
It was Powell who scored on 69 minutes, firing home a low shot from a tight angle
after Potkins had controlled a left side cross and laid off a pass to set up the chance.
Soon after, Belles took the lead after another good move ending with Bowles
converting from close range. Only good work from Richmond keeper Ciara Walker
prevented further damage as Beecholme looked to see out the final minutes in comfort.
In fact, Richmond Park kept moving forward whenever possible, testing the very
impressive defence of the visitors with the outcome in the balance right to the end of a very
good match. However it was the champions elect who found a way to take the points and
virtually ensure the top spot.
Richmond Park Development: Ciara Walker, Johanna Williams, Naomi Cannarsa,
Darcey Platt, Jade Dulake, Summer Hibbert, Mashail Bhatti, Norine Yousry, Erin Korcz,
Jess O’Shea, Lucy McKinnell. Subs: Lauren Ferris, Poppy Faure-Walker, Mya Awad, Mia
Warren.
Beecholme Belles: Niamh Kelly, Sam Bird, Bethan Stratten, Tegan Coyle, Hannah
Pinchbeck, Issie Mallows, Amelia Gartell, Hannah Bowles, Amy Potkins, Sophie Mair,
Dionne Bird. Subs: Violet Powell, Sam Jackson,
Emily Hobern, Georgia Hendra, Ela Chakarto.
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