West 0-0 Crewe

The first league game of 2023 for West was against an in-form Crewe Alexandra team, that had picked up 7pts from their last 3 games. West on the other hand were looking to bounce back quickly after a disappointing performance against Darwen in the County Cup the week before.

Crewe created the first clear chance to score after a pass split the West defence to play their forward through but the shot headed straight towards the keeper for a comfortable save. There were a couple more half-chances throughout the half but it was Leah Bowett-Robinson who came closest to breaking the deadlock after she twice closed down opponents in their half to recover the ball and hit a volley from 25 yards out when the ball bounced up. Luck wasn’t on West’s side though as the ball rattled the crossbar and bounced off the goal line and back towards the recovering goalkeeper. Each team created a few more chances but both defences were resolute, with Ellie Caddick recovering to make a crucial block on the edge of the area midway through the half.

West and Crewe approached the second half much the same as the first however West were growing in confidence and gaining control of the game. Jami Hodges was a constant threat down the left side, consistently running past opponents, but couldn’t quite get the end product to reward her efforts. As substitutions were made West committed more players forwards and looked like they would get a goal but the Crewe defence did enough to keep them out.

A draw might feel like points dropped for West however it was a strong performance and clean sheet against a good Crewe side who will likely feel the same: a competitive draw where both teams displayed their quality.

Megan Dickin made her competitive debut in goal for West and will be pleased to have started with a clean sheet. Becca Simpson also featured in her first league game since August following a long term injury, managing 50min as she builds up her match fitness.

Starting XI: Dickin (GK), Blöchl, Mason, Veryard, Caddick, Bowett-Robinson, Kerr, Hodges, Edmondson (c), Bracegirdle, Gunn.

Subs: Dolan, Simpson, Ford, Mundell, Vyas