A scoreline of Doncaster Rovers Belles 0 Manchester City 4 in the FA WSL Development League looks like a comfortable victory, but that was far from the case, writes Julian Barker.
City had first half backing of a strong wind at Balby Carr and the better of opening chances - their best effort coming in the first minute when Georgia Brougham’s 30-yard free kick crashed against the bar.
The first half ended with both teams close to going ahead as an acrobatic effort by Holly Housley (pictured) almost gave Belles the lead before Alice Hey had the ball in the net for City - but was offside.
Belles’ Molly Johnson later went close with a long range effort.
City opened their account on the hour and then went 2-0 up shortly before injury reduced Belles to ten when Lucy Sowerby was helped off with suspected ankle ligament damage.
With play barely resumed, City stretched their lead to 3-0 and their fourth goal was effectively the last kick of the game.
Photo: Julian Barker.