Chester FC Womens Team

    Runcorn Linnets Ladies 0-3 Chester FC Women

    Chester FC Women’s returned from the Christmas break with a convincing victory over a strong Runcorn Linnets side on Sunday.

    Amber Bailey, Becky Tebb and Jamie-Lee McDowell strikes ensured the three points for the Blues.

    Dean Vian’s side started the game nervously – with Runcorn missing a glorious chance through on goal; before the visiting Chester took the lead on 38 minutes.

    Bailey, in only her second appearance for the club since arriving, opened her account for the team as Bekah Williams and Tebb linked up to find Amy Whittle who teed up the forward to slot home.

    The Linnets started the second half strongly – looking for a response – but the back four of Vian’s side held firm with a lot of long balls forward.

    Then, on the hour mark, the Blues doubled their advantage as Bailey and Tebb combined on this occasion; with the latter rifling home superbly.

    Chester began to enjoy their football now, and were fully into their stride as Runcorn began to tire.

    Whittle set up her second of the game, a cross into the box which was converted by the onrushing full-back McDowell for her second of the campaign.

    Sub Katy Beattie was then somehow denied by a superb save late on; but the points were already sealed for the girls in Blue.

    Next up for Chester, it’s a home game against Stockport County HNR.

    Speaking after the game, Dean Vian said: “This was by far the best performance we have produced since my time at the club, the players were outstanding and the whole squad – starters and subs -knew fully their roles and responsibilities.

    “A slight change in formation and team shape along with some minor alternations to player positions led to our more creative players getting on the ball more which resulted in us playing with a real swagger about ourselves.

    “Our transitions from defence to attack were frightening at times and it is a real credit to the all the players, who took on board what was asked of them individually and collectively and produced a performance to be proud of.

    “Today was a real statement of our intent for the rest of the season and any of our rivals watching that will be fearful of what we can produce.”