Chris Lyons' team march into semi-final of cup
Dons Ladies provided further evidence of their fantastic progress this season by knocking Crystal Palace out of the Surrey Women’s Cup.
Chris Lyons’ side set-up a semi-final tie against South Park Ladies with an excellent 2-0 win against Palace, thanks to goals from Emma Keady and Caz Bisson (pictured).
Having moved up to second spot in London & South East Regional Women’s Premier Division, it could be an exciting end to 2014/15 for the Dons. Certainly, it’s already been a much-improved campaign after last season’s rock-bottom finish and a 9-0 defeat against Palace in last season’s competition.
Wimbledon again started brightly and earned their reward when Keady flicked in the opener after a well delivered corner from Libby Suchley. The Dons dominated first half possession and they could have been further in front with Keady, Bisson, Suchley and Jess Trimnell all going close.
Palace finally became more dominant as the first half progressed and their pressure resulted in a number of corners, but Wimbledon's defence remained defiant.
Linsey Clarke almost doubled the advantage in the second half, but her effort was saved by the Crystal Palace goalkeeper. At the other end, the Dons survived vociferous penalty appeals from Palace players after the ball had struck Suchley’s arm, but referee Keith Glover deemed it accidental.
Though Palace exerted pressure in the final stages, Wimbledon remained resolute in defence and they sealed victory in injury time when Bisson showed blistering pace to break though and she finished off stylishly.
The final whistle signalled jubilant scenes among Wimbledon’s players and they now have a great chance to earn silverware if they can beat South Park Ladies in the last four.
Vice-captain Libby Suchley said: “The whole team really dug deep; we played for each other, worked hard, defended as a unit, and showed our quality in attack. We are absolutely buzzing to have knocked Palace out of the cup and are really looking forward to the semi-final in this competition.”
AFC Wimbledon Ladies: Liane Tylee, Ellen Martin, Linsey Clarke, Lauren Carnell, Sian Houghton-North, Libby Suchley, Jess Trimnell, Rebecca Sargent, Sian Wylie (Bianca Walker), Caz Bisson, Emma Keady. Unused substitutes: Alysha Clements, Fleur Robinson.