CLUB chairman Chris Swan praised Redditch United Ladies after they continued their exciting SSE Women’s FA Cup run with a 5-1 home win over Goldenhill Wanderers of West Midlands Regional League Division One North.
The Reds saw off their Staffordshire visitors with aplomb to reach the third qualifying round, in which they will face a stern test at home to FA Women’s Premier Midland Division One side Solihull Moors on Sunday, October 8.
Boss Gary Barrell has declared the tie an extremely difficult one for his side but is excited at the prospect having seen his team claim two wins in their debut season in the prestigious competition.
Reds chairman Swan is equally impressed by what he has seen.
“I have really enjoyed watching them and the standard of football is very, very good,” said Swan.
“I’m delighted they progressed on Sunday and good things are expected from them in the league.”
United, who fielded American star Mckenzie Karas in defence on her return to the Trico Stadium, were up against a Wanderers side who had not lost a game in the last two seasons and who knocked out higher ranked Coundon Court in the previous round.
The hosts stood up well to a physically strong Goldenhill side and got their reward when Sarah Kennedy’s deep cross was flicked on by Sofi Liperis to Mayme Conroy who slotted home to give Redditch the early advantage.
Ellie Gerhold made it 2-0 before the break and the crucial third goal also went the way of the hosts early in the second half when Hollie Congrave cut in from the left and lifted the ball over the goalkeeper at the near post.
Liperis made it 4-0 thanks to Sam Berry’s assist and, despite a consolation goal for the visitors, it was the Reds who had the final say when player of the match Karas fired home a set piece.
The Reds, who won 6-0 at Rugby Town in their opening league game, return to West Midlands Division One South action on Sunday with a trip to Stourbridge.
