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Perry and Wood secure away victory

12/ 1/2008

ROCHDALE Ladies travelled to the north east for the fourth time this season to open the second half of their campaign in the Northern Combination League.

They claimed a 2-0 win over West Auckland.

Claire Pearson lost the toss and ended up kicking downhill into the sun.

The first half was scrappy, but both sides had chances.

Sarah Buffel forced a great one-handed save, while the home side also had a fine shot tipped over the crossbar by an in form Lauren Bracewell.

Dale drew first blood within six minutes of the second half. Claire Pearson hit a long ball out of defence to Rachael Wood on the left wing. Wood raced past three defenders and hit a pinpoint cross to Sue Perry who coolly slotted home.

More pressure followed as Dale mounted attack after attack

Siobhan McElhinney and Susie Wells bossed midfield, both breaking up play and distributing the ball well.

Hard working Sue Perry made way for Robyn Finc who got into the action almost immediately when she chased down a back pass.

The Auckland keeper tried to clear but hit the incoming Finc and the ball ended up in the back of the net.

Unfortunately for Rochdale the referee ruled out the goal for handball.

A second goal did come soon after.

Susie Wells hit a long ball to Sarah Buffel. Her shot hit an Auckland defender and the ball spun off to Lisa Wood whose daisy-cutter found the net.

Nicola Ireson, who had a really good game, made way for the young Nat Liggett in the 72nd minute. Liggett did well and is a promising player for the future.

Dale’s last chance fell to Rachael Wood who body swerved two Auckland tackles and narrowly failed to score.

This was a good all-round performance by Dale whose defence of Baird, Pearson, Katie Wood and Nicola Ireson looked sound.