Belper return home with 3 points from away trip

The game started the same way it would pan out for the next 90minutes. With Belper’s midfield of Alex Holland and Alice Liggett battling in the middle of the field and playing some nice passing football.
It did not take long before pressure from Belper’s forwards including Hayley Dolman and Louise Hawley being supplied on either wings by Emma Pickard and Jess Leyshon.
Belper were first to strike when Hawley picked her spot from 30 yards out with a looping shot timed perfectly to go over the head of the Hilton goalkeeper.
The game continued to be won and lost in midfield with Hilton attacking the Belper goal with several corners which were defended with the backline of Emma Newton, Olivia Pell, Sarah Jackson and Helen Colwill. Belper shut Hilton out till half time.
The second half began with Hilton and putting Belper under some early pressure playing attacking football and gaining the upper hand in midfield, a clever through ball put a Hilton attacker in on goal one on one with goalkeeper Emma Varnam, Varnam came out to take the ball a preserve the lead
Belper made their first substitution with Lauren Curl replacing Hawley upfront, and soon made her presence known getting stuck in with some strong tackles.
But Hilton made the most of 2 free kicks, and the second gave them the equaliser as the Hilton forward was the quickest to the lose ball following the initial save from Varnam
After the restart Belper consolidated and made their second change with Justine Oliver replacing Leyshon. The fresh legs brought Belper back into the game as Oliver went on a few runs creating opportunities for Pickard and Dolman.
The pressure finally told as Belper forced a series of corners with Curle pouncing on a weak clearance which she slotted in to make it two one with around 10 to play.

Belper soaked up the pressure till the final whistle.

Dame of the Game Alex Holland
Thanks to Belper Ladies sponsors JC Balls.