GIRLS FOOTBALL

SWINDON Spitfires' under 16s took part in the Maidenhead Boys and Girls FC six-a-side tournament and came away winners after remaining unbeaten throughout.

With one team failing to show up Spits only had three group games, but started well with a 1-0 win over hosts Maidenhead A, Georgia Leonard heading in at the near post from an Emma Skinner throw-in.

Next up were Theale Tigers B. A long-range Alice Willson effort gave Spits the lead but a lack of concentration allowed Theale to equalise in the last minute.

Spits went into the final group game against Denham United knowing a draw would see them through.

Rita Shahi finished some excellent build-up play to give Spits the lead and although Denham pulled level it was job done and into the knock-out stage.

In the semi-final Spits faced Wargrave Girls who had their guest goalkeeper to thank for keeping them in the game.

Spits had all the play and eventually managed to find the back of the net through Georgia Walters. Skinner added the second to make sure late on.

The final saw Spits up against Surrey County League champions Knaphill Wanderers. A tight game ensued, with both sides defending resolutely.

Knaphill thought they had it won late on when Jenny Gray brought down one of their players, luckily the referee adjudged it to have been outside the area.

The resultant free-kick flashed wide. From the goal-kick Spits broke and forced a corner at the other end, Walters rolled the ball into Skinner whose scuffed shot fooled the keeper and rolled into the far corner to leave Spits victorious.

Spitfires: Katie New, Jenny Gray, Alice Willson, Georgia Leonard, Sophie Smith, Rita Shahi, Georgia Walters, Emma Skinner.