Requiring a win to stay in touch with the competition leaders, Parkes United scored a much needed 1-0 win over Bathurst St Pats at Stephen Davies Field on Saturday.
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In a repeat of their Round 1 match, Parkes once again defeated the Bathurst outfit by a solitary goal, courtesy of young striker Stacey Ross.
It was Paige Hay who earned the points for United in Round 1 after a goalmouth scramble saw her find the net in the final minute.
It did not take the home side as long to crack the St Pat’s defence, breaking through just before half-time.
In a very tough match, Parkes were outstanding defensively with fullback Codie Wakefield having a stellar match.
Codie gained six Best and Fairest points and was voted Player’s Player by her peers.
Codie was well supported by NSW Masters representative Amy Thornberry in goals.
The win saw United climb to equal fifth on the ladder, level on points with Dubbo Blue Jays.
Parkes created plenty of goalscoring opportunities in the first half, but it took until the final minutes of the first period for a goal to be scored.
A good right side attacking move found Stacey Ross with good space in the circle to knock the ball past the Pats keeper.
In the second half, Parkes did not play as well, but were magnificent in defence to ensure Pats did not get any chances to level the scores.
Parkes United assistant coach Hamish Orr was pleased with his team’s effort.
“It was a gutsy defensive performance,” Orr said.
“Codie controlled the game for us from the back.
“We created plenty of chances to score, especially in the first half, so it was a little frustrating that only one went in the back of the net.
“It was a must win game for the girls and although it turned a bit scrappy towards the end of the match, it is still good to be able to win the tight matches,” he said.
Best and Fairest points were awarded to Codie Wakefield, Bec Cowling and Niamh Dixon.
Parkes travel to Orange this Saturday to take on Orange Ex-Services.
It looks likely the full squad will be available for the match, a first for some time this season.
