A disappointing afternoon on The Wirral for the girls

Photos: Simon Witcher

By Freddie Bullen

Bootle FC Women suffered a 3–0 defeat away to West Kirby United at Anglesey Road Playing Fields in a largely one-sided contest on the Wirral.

The hosts started on the front foot and nearly took an early lead in the 10th minute when their number 5 fired an effort that skimmed just over the crossbar. West Kirby continued to apply pressure, but Bootle goalkeeper Cody Naylor kept the game level with a superb close-range save in the 14th minute, followed by another stop moments later that she tipped onto the crossbar. However, the pressure eventually told as West Kirby reacted quickest to the rebound to make it 1–0.

Naylor was again called into action shortly after, producing another excellent save in the 18th minute to prevent the hosts from doubling their advantage. Bootle found it difficult to gain a foothold in the game, registering no shots, while West Kirby dominated possession and territory. A further close-range save from Naylor in the 38th minute ensured the score remained 1–0 at the break.

The second half followed a similar pattern, and West Kirby extended their lead six minutes after the restart to make it 2–0. Despite the scoreline, Naylor continued to impress, denying the hosts on several occasions, including a free shot inside the area in the 57th minute and another close-range effort two minutes later.

West Kirby added a third goal in the 62nd minute with a well-executed dinked finish, effectively sealing the result. Bootle battled to the end but were unable to trouble the home defence as the match concluded 3–0 in favour of the hosts.

Bootle FC Women will look to regroup and respond in their next fixture after a tough afternoon on the road.