Ben Rhydding Women’s 1st XI were left to rue a missed chance with the final touch of the match as they narrowly fell to a 1-0 defeat away to Leicester City in a tightly contested encounter.

The opening half was an evenly matched affair, with both sides creating opportunities and earning short corners as they looked to gain the upper hand. Defences remained resolute throughout, with neither team able to convert their chances despite some promising attacking play.

The intensity of the contest was reflected in the physical battles across the pitch, with both teams receiving a green card as competitive challenges flew in and neither side gave an inch. Leicester came closest to breaking the deadlock before the interval when a chance flashed narrowly wide of the far post, but the teams went into the break level at 0-0.

Leicester started the second half brightly and were rewarded for their pressure when they won a short corner. A well-worked routine saw the home team get the decisive touch, expertly deflecting the ball home to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.

Ben Rhydding responded strongly and pushed forward in search of an equaliser, applying sustained pressure throughout the remainder of the match. Chances came and went, but Leicester's defence held firm as the visitors continued to threaten.

The drama continued right until the final whistle. With the last play of the game, Kirsty Goodbold earned a short corner and came agonisingly close to snatching an equaliser. The resulting effort from Chloe Cundick and deflection from Rachel Scott drifted inches wide of the far post, leaving the travelling side disappointed as Leicester claimed victory.

Despite the result, Ben Rhydding can take plenty of positives from a disciplined and determined performance against a strong Leicester City side, with little separating the two teams throughout an entertaining and competitive contest.

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