The Doncaster Belles began their new season with a challenging match, narrowly falling 3-2 to Durham Cestria. The game, held on the Belles’ home turf, showcased both teams’ determination and skill, but it was a hat-trick from Anna Soulsby that ultimately sealed the visitors’ victory.
A strong start from the Belles
The Belles opened the match with energy and intent, immediately threatening Cestria’s defence. Hannah McWilliams nearly put the home side ahead early on, her shot skimming just wide of the post. This early pressure, however, did not translate into a lead, and Cestria capitalised on their first real opportunity.
Cestria take the lead
Despite the Belles’ strong start, it was Cestria who struck first, against the run of play. Just after the 15-minute mark, Anna Soulsby showcased her sharp finishing ability, firing a shot past Belles’ debutant goalkeeper Maguire from the edge of the area. Cestria almost doubled their lead moments later when Emily Hutchinson hit the post with a well-taken half-turn shot, but the Belles managed to keep the deficit to one.
Farrow’s response for the Belles
The Belles quickly responded to falling behind. Building from a well-executed move initiated by Lindsey Tugby-Andrew, Lucy Farrow found the net with a precise finish into the corner.
Farrow’s partnership with Jasmine Saxton looked promising, and the duo nearly combined to put the Belles ahead shortly after. Saxton’s effort, however, went over the bar, keeping the score level.
The game hangs in the balance
The first half ended with the Belles showing promise but unable to convert their chances into a lead. Ciaran Toner’s side continued to press, with another close attempt from McWilliams that narrowly missed the target.
Soulsby’s magic continues
The second half saw a shift in momentum. Anna Soulsby, a recent signing from Championship Newcastle, demonstrated why she was such a key addition for Cestria. Early in the half, she restored Cestria’s lead with a stunning long-distance free kick that soared into the top corner.
Belles fight back, but Soulsby strikes again
The Belles had opportunities to equalise once more, with Farrow again coming close with an impressive solo run. However, Soulsby was not finished. She completed her hat-trick, breaking free of the Belles’ defence to slot home and give Cestria a commanding 3-1 lead.
Late drama but no equaliser
Despite the setback, the Belles did not give up. Cestria’s Rachel Bell missed a golden chance to put the game beyond doubt, and the Belles took advantage of this reprieve. With time running out, a deflected free kick from Jess Tugby-Andrew found the back of the net, narrowing the deficit to 3-2 and giving the Belles hope of a late comeback.
A valient effort falls short
In the closing moments, the Belles pushed hard, but Cestria’s defence held firm. Soulsby’s hat-trick performance proved to be the deciding factor, ensuring that Cestria left with all three points.
The Belles will take heart from their performance, knowing they were competitive throughout. As the season progresses, they’ll be looking to convert such performances into wins, starting with their next fixture.
