WCWFC 1-1 Loughborough Lightning

WCWFC Starting 11

This Sunday, Worcester City Women brought the FA Women’s National League to Malvern, playing their home fixture at the picturesque Malvern Town Football Club. They left sharing the points against league leaders Loughborough Lightning thanks to a goal scored by the captain Jess Fassnidge.  

The game got off to an electrifying start as Loughborough Lightning immediately tested Worcester City’s resolve. In the opening moments, their number nine met a fast-paced cross, but her effort cannoned off the crossbar, denying them an early lead. Loughborough continued to press, and a long-range shot soon followed, but Worcester goalkeeper Kirsty Bridgwater was equal to the task, comfortably making the save.  

Just 15 minutes in, Worcester's relentless high press paid off. Annie Highway won the ball from a Lightning defender and quickly played the ball behind the defence for Chloe Bellamy. However, the Lightning keeper was quick off her line, cutting out the opportunity.  

Loughborough began to grow into the game, and on the 20-minute mark, a nimble attacker found space inside the box and unleashed a powerful shot aimed at the bottom corner. But Bridgwater was again outstanding, diving to push the ball around the post with a fantastic save.

Despite Loughborough's possession dominance, Worcester’s defensive shape, sitting deep in a well-organised low block, made it difficult for the visitors to carve out clear-cut chances. The visitors found themselves frustrated as the half progressed.  

In the 31st minute, Worcester’s attack came alive again. A cross-field ball found Shona Baldwin, whose flicked header released Evie Billingsley behind the defence. Billingsley showcased some dazzling footwork to get past her defender, but she was brought down just outside the box. A promising free-kick opportunity followed, but Highway's attempt was just over the bar.  

With the half drawing to a close, Worcester threatened once more. Billingsley picked out captain Fassnidge with a perfectly timed pass through the middle. Fassnidge’s shot hit the post, but the linesman’s flag was raised for offside, denying Worcester the breakthrough they deserved.  

At the break, the score was still 0-0, but Worcester had demonstrated their resilience, stifling Loughborough's attacking threats and showing flashes of offensive promise.  

The second half began with Worcester continuing their disciplined defensive display. In the 55th minute, the breakthrough finally came. Highway, once again orchestrating the attack, floated a pinpoint cross into the box. Billingsley cleverly laid it off to Fassnidge, who smashed a powerful shot into the bottom corner to put Worcester 1-0 up.  

Loughborough quickly responded, and just five minutes later, Billingsley had a glorious chance to double the lead. Running in behind the defence, she spotted the keeper off her line and attempted a chip, but the ball sailed narrowly wide, much to the disappointment of the Worcester contingent.  

Fresh legs were introduced in the 65th minute as Bellamy and Highway made way for Olivia Mitcham and Esme Harris. This substitution brought fresh energy to Worcester’s play, but Loughborough wasn't done yet. In the 73rd minute, a short corner led to a cross into the box, allowing an eager Loughborough striker to tap in from close range to level the scoreline.  

With just 10 minutes remaining, Worcester dug deep, defending resolutely and throwing their bodies on the line to preserve the point. Loughborough, despite having the bulk of possession, could not break through the sturdy defensive wall.  

The final whistle blew with the score tied 1-1, and both teams shared a point after a hard-fought battle. Worcester’s defence had been tested, but they had held firm against a high-quality Loughborough side.  

Worcester City Women will return to Sixways Stadium on the 16th of March for their eagerly anticipated semi-final, local derby clash against Kidderminster Harriers. Get your tickets ready below... it’s a big one!