Bolton Wanderers Ladies continue their fine form with a win over Chester le Street

A dramatic late goal following a missed penalty saw Bolton Wanderers Ladies continue their strong form this season with a win over Chester le Street.

Following an away win at Crewe on Wednesday evening, the side welcomed Chester Le Street to Lostock Academy - where the game was moved due to a waterlogged pitch - on Sunday looking for points to continue their fine league form and remain in the top six of the Women’s Premier League. Which, remember, is their first season at this level.

The match began in an edgy manner, with both teams looking for weaknesses within their opponents’ lines. But the vital breakthrough came for Bolton Ladies in the 28th minute, as Ruby Howard was played through for a one-on-one with the goalkeeper and calmly slotted home. Bolton’s dominant performance in the first half saw the ladies going in comfortably in front, albeit only 1-0 at half time.

Chester le Street came out intent on piling up the pressure on the Bolton Ladies early in the second half but failed to take the opportunities that came their way. And both sides were guilting of wasting chances as the second half wore on.

Chester le Street eventually got back on level terms through a one-on-one of their own with the striker calmly putting the ball past Brit Jackson in goal.

Bolton weren’t downhearted, but instead used this setback to again put the pressure on their opponents and they were swiftly rewarded right at the death.

Deep into injury time Safron Newhouse, named player of the match at Crewe, was brought down in the box after a strong run down the left wing and Bolton had a penalty. Betty Worth stepped up only to see the keeper make a save, but made sure she scored as the rebound bounced back to her to make it 2-1.

Chester le Street didn’t have time to recover for a second time, and Bolton held on to claim a vital victory.

The victory sees Bolton sitting firmly in mid-table in the Women’s Premier League Northern 1, only behind fifth-placed Crewe Alexandra Ladies on goal difference.

Bolton Ladies, who just returned from a trip to Las Vegas, are back in action on Thursday evening when they take on Liverpool Feds at the Kensite Stadium, then face a trip to Newcastle United on Sunday.