In the FAWNL Plate Final on Sunday, Cheltenham Town Women faced a narrow 3-2 defeat to AFC Bournemouth Women. Despite a spirited second-half performance, they were unable to force extra-time against their opponents.
The Cherries took an early two-goal lead, but Una Lue’s goal provided a lifeline for Tom Davies’ side. However, Bournemouth extended their lead with another goal from Ellie Strippel.
Late in the second half, captain Emily Owen scored a brilliant header from a corner, making the score 3-2, but Cheltenham’s fightback ultimately fell short.
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Cheltenham made two changes from their previous victory, with Carys Pugh-Jones and Ffion Llewellyn coming back into the lineup. Despite a strong start from Bournemouth, Cheltenham fought back with Lue’s goal. However, Bournemouth responded with another goal from Strippel.
Although Cheltenham showed determination in the second half, they couldn’t overturn the deficit, and Bournemouth emerged as the victors.
Cheltenham’s next challenge is the Gloucestershire County Cup Final on Tuesday, where they will face Bristol City Under-21s at Oaklands Park (7:30pm).
Cheltenham Town: Pugh-Jones; Bell, Llewellyn, Owen, Wellesley-Davies; Pemberton, Attenborough (Trinci 76), Butcher; Hateley (Ellis 90+3), Greenwood (Collis 62), Lue.