A vital clash with top of the table Lytham was to prove Fleetwood’s undoing, ending their excellent unbeaten run.  Lytham outfought Fleetwood all over the park, keeping up an energetic work-rate from the first whistle to the last and this was to prove to be the difference between the two sides.
With a strong, icy wind at their backs Lytham took the early initiative and were pressing forward with menace.  Vic Lowe, Cath Robinson, Steph Massie and Chloe Holme defended stoutly, ably assisted by their keeper Lottie Walsh.

Fleetwood responded with an excellent break from an individual effort by Sarah Fay but  Lytham tidied up efficiently.

Lytham continued to press and Lottie Walsh had to be brave and resourceful to keep them out.  However, Lytham’s number 10, who was to torment Fleetwood all game, broke free from the tenacious Vix Lowe and put in a cross.  Fleetwood’s defence seemed rooted to the spot, allowing the Lytham forward a free strike on goal, giving the keeper no chance.

The Fleetwood midfield dug in, with Loz Fail and Sarah Fay linking up well.  But all  too often Lytham’s forceful and harrying play broke up Fleetwood’s attempts to build attacks.  In addition, the home side’s back four pushed up as a unit, finding Fleetwood’s forward players offside time after time.
Lytham were always threatening, although Steph Massie was always on hand to clear up, ably assisted by Cath Robinson whose magnificent goal line clearance was typical of her fighting spirit throughout the game.

In the second half Fleetwood had more of the ball but the Lytham goal rarely looked troubled.  Whilst their keeper had some sweeping to do she did not have a save to make throughout.  Without a shot on target the points were already gone.  Lytham scored twice more, the third goal an absolute peach of a header.  It was only excellent play from Fleetwood’s defence, including the embattled keeper, which kept the score to three nil. 

Fleetwood’s substitutions of Meg Brown and Em Hanson could not break down Lytham’s resolve, although Meg Brown in particular worked hard in her midfield role.

In the last five minutes the Fleetwood body language suggested they had all but given up and Lytham went out deserved winners. This was a lesson learnt for the Fleetwood girls will need to improve in next weeks Cup Semi Final against Lammack.

Team:
Lottie Walsh, Chloe Holme, Steph Massie, Victoria Lowe, Catherine Robinson, Lauren Fail,  Em McCarthy (Capt), Sarah Fay, Jess Smith, Bex Lowe,  Rebecca Harper, Subs:   Em Hanson, Megan Brown

Player of the match: Steph Massie
Managers Player: Steph Massie