London Bees made history yesterday when they became the first WSL2 side to reach the Semi-Final of the FA WSL Continental Tyres Cup competition. Not only that but en route to the semis Bees had knocked out holders and WSL Champions Chelsea Ladies, so over achieving on a big scale!
Photo by Gino D’Andrea
Sadly, Birmingham City Ladies team was a step too far for an amateur side already diminished by injuries as they went down 0-4 at the Hive.
The Bees keeper, Beth Davies, kept the side in the competition as Bees started slowly and because of an inability to retain the ball were constantly under pressure. Half way through the first half, Birmingham made the breakthrough as Kirsty Linnett stooped to head a cross into the net and relieve the Birmingham nerves.
Towards the end of the half Bees created some pressure of their own and many felt Birmingham were lucky not to be penalised when their keeper took out Jo Wilson with a robust challenge which prevented Wilson being through on goal, but nothing was given.
Bees’ Jo Wilson being challenged by Ann-Katrin Berger (Photo: Gino D’Andrea)
Just after the break Kerys Harrop doubled the score for Birmingham and then Charlie Wellings added the best score of the day with a 30 yard belter.
Bees also lost their captain Ashleigh Goddard early in the second half, to a dislocated shoulder, to add to their injury woes.
Late on Birmingham got the fourth goal after a fumble from Beth Davies, who until that point had played a really good game. The harsh reality of being a goalkeeper.
Possibly Bees showed their opponents a little too much respect or were daunted by the occasion and the being in touching distance of the final created too much pressure, but they should be really proud of their achievement they have unlocked some of their potential and will hopefully continue to improve..
Photo: Gino D’Andrea
Meanwhile Birmingham City Ladies, defeated finalists in 2011 and 2012 to Arsenal Ladies, may be relieved that they will meet Manchester City women in the final this year and will definitely be hoping it is third time lucky – we wish them well!
Before the match began there was a minute’s applause in memory of Zoe Tynan who tragically lost her life this week.
