Chesterfield FC Women slipped to their first league loss since October, losing 1-0 at home to Handsworth Women.
The opposition began the match stronger than the Blues and capitalised in the 13th minute when a ball played in behind the Chesterfield back-line was slotted past the ‘keeper to give Handsworth an early lead.
Following the goal, the Spireites took more command of the game and began to really apply some pressure. The best chance came in the 36th minute when Foster took the ball around three defenders, but her effort was deflected and cleared.
The half time whistle blew and despite late efforts the Spireites went into the half chasing the lead.
Upon the start of the second half. Chesterfield began with higher intensity and dominated the ball.
In the 61st minute Foster’s weaving run was stopped and the clearance only went as far as Watkinson whose effort clipped the top of the crossbar.
Moments later, in the 68th minute, goalkeeper Carrol had to be substituted due to an injury to her ankle which meant the U18s goalkeeper Stocks came off the bench to make her senior debut.
The match remained equal with both teams having opportunities, but the score-line remained in favour of Handsworth.
A scrappy final five minutes saw the Spireites go down to their first loss since October, as they suffered a 1-0 defeat despite a much better second half.
