Report

West Ham United Ladies won a crucial three points against FA Womens Premier League Southern Division leaders Colchester United to keep alive their promotion hopes.
The Hammers entered the game knowing only a win would suffice and dropped points would see them unable to overhaul their Essex rivals and with so much a stake the game had a nervy opening on a pitch passed fit that morning after the midweek rain and then frost had both threatened to cause a postponement. With several players nursing injuries and striker Gemma Shepherd ruled out the Hammers would not have been forgiven for cursing the thaw that allowed the game to go ahead but come the final whistle were delighted with the outcome.
Chances were few and far between in the opening spell – Nikki Duncan showed good handling to save a shot from the left a Colchester’s forwards rushed in to pick up any spillage and Lindsey Morgan saw her long range volley gathered by the Colchester keeper as the match became very much a determined midfield battle.  Duncan save bravely as Kate Longhurst looked to get on the end of a through ball  which saw both players receive lengthy treatment before the deadlock was finally broken just after the half hour mark. The Hammer shad won a free kick thirty yards out and Jess Barling’s lofted delivery saw the ball glanced in off a defenders head.
The second half saw an early onslaught from Colchester but the Hammers weathered the attack well with Danica Revel and Rosey Sullivan excelling at the back and Duncan again showing safe hands diving at her near post.  A single goal lead looked precarious and the Hammers pushed on for a second of their own, which duly arrived when Jess Barling overlapped on the left flank and skilfully slipping past two tackles she sent in a low left footed cross that flew across the six yard box and was again turned in by a retreating defenders efforts to clear.
The Hammers midfield three worked tirelessly to protect the lead as Colchester pushed players forward to try and get back in the game but when they finally made the breakthrough with a low shot to the far corner there was little time left in the game and with some sensible hold up play from substitute Emma Harrison which almost created a late chance for April Bowers as the Colchester keeper just took the ball off her outstretched foot, the points were secured.
The win leaves Colchester four points ahead of the Hammers but having finished their programme a win and draw from West Ham’s final two games would see them overhaul the leaders although Portsmouth with three to play and the bets goal difference could still eclipse both sides in what is proving to be another exciting finish to the league.  
The views of manager Julia setford and coach Paul Blanchflower after the win can be found via the link below:
Colchester reaction  
A full range of photos from the game can be found via the link below:
TGS Gallery

Photos