Doncaster Belles' hopes of progressing in the Adobe Women's FA Cup ended in disappointment after a penalty shootout loss to Workington Town at Club Doncaster Sports Village.
The match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes, with Imogen Burnley giving the Belles an early lead before Workington equalised with seven minutes remaining. Manager Lee Mitchell's side entered the third round of qualifying as favourites, having recently found their feet at home, but the away side proved determined to cause an upset.
First Half Action
The Belles started brightly and created early chances. Ruby Jex-Oldfield made a promising run into the opposition box, while Lucy Tinker had periods of possession before being forced off the ball by Workington. Tinker was later removed after picking up a knock, giving Workington a chance to build momentum.
Despite the opposition pressure mounting, Doncaster broke the deadlock courtesy of Burnley. The Belles' advantage was tested when Ashton received a yellow card for a challenge that resulted in a free kick in a dangerous area, though the set piece was wasted with the shot going wide.
Second Half Struggles
After the interval, the Belles applied early pressure and created further opportunities. Betty Cheetham and Ellie Ball both had shots on target, while Jex-Oldfield forced a save from the opposition keeper. However, a lack of clinical finishing in the final third prevented the home side from extending their lead.
As the half progressed, momentum shifted. Workington began to control possession and created their own chances, eventually levelling the score with seven minutes of normal time remaining.
Penalty Shootout Drama
With neither side able to find a winner in the closing stages, the match went to a penalty shootout. Skipper Jex-Oldfield was first to step up for the Belles, but Workington Town's number four converted their penalty to beat goalkeeper Slater-Rowley. Despite successful spot kicks from the home side, Workington held their nerve to progress.
The defeat means Doncaster Belles will not progress to the first round of the Adobe Women's FA Cup, but the team showed quality in possession throughout the match that can be built upon in training.