Parkes United women put in a much improved performance in their game against one of the top sides in the competition, Lithgow Panthers.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Parkes were defeated 4-2 with Lithgow scoring their final goal as the siren sounded for full time.
In relentless rain, Parkes put in a great performance which was filled with intensity and great determination from all players.
In a first for the year, almost the entire squad was available for selection for the match, giving coach Janelle Thompson many options throughout the match.
NSW representative player, Mariah Williams, was home for the turf opening and made herself available for the match.
The first half of the match was very even with both sides creating scoring opportunities.
Parkes were awarded a penalty stroke late in the first half after an attacking raid resulted in a breach on the goal line.
Williams made no mistake in converting the opportunity.
In the second half, Lithgow ran in two quick goals to take a 2-1 lead.
Parkes were tenacious across the field and worked hard to force penalty corner opportunities.
Williams was successful in converting a penalty corner with a smart drag flick.
A draw would have been a deserving result but it was not to be with Lithgow scoring two further goals, one as the final siren sounded.
Amy Thornberry was outstanding in goals and was a well deserved player's player.
Williams was a delight to watch, proving why she has made both the NSW 18s and 21s teams this year.
Jess Ross played a defensive role throughout the match and was impressive in this positional change.
Overall it was a great team performance with all players performing well.
Parkes have another home game this weekend against Orange side, Kinross-CYMS.
LITHGOW 4 (Sarah Dicker 2, Madeline Bott, Mahala Williams) def PARKES UNITED 2 (Mariah Williams 2).
