Richard Luscombe ARGYLE Ladies continued their impressive pre season with this comfortable victory in Wales. Argyle went into the game on the back of a stunning 14-1 victory over Hampshire League visitors AFC Bournemouth. Although losing a number of players Cardiff – who finished third in last seasons Premier League Southern Division were expected to be stiff opposition. Not in the slightest as Argyle dominated much of the proceedings. With goalkeeper Michaela Phillips unavailable Argyle looked to captain Kate Middleton to don the goalkeeper gloves. This meant a change of formation at the back with midfielder Dani Barr occupying the right back position. With the Development team having to call off their match at Cardiff, manager Travis Rowland selected new second team striker Lucy Solloway to the 14 member squad. The Cornish youngster who was knocking in goals for a passtime in the Cornwall League last season followed up her two goals for the Development team last week against AFC Bournemouth to come on as a substitute to help herself to another brace.
Argyle dominated proceedings from the off but were caught out when a cross come shot from wide on the wing got caught by the wind and flew into the net. Argyle hit back with Natasha Knapman having a goal disallowed before a great Amber Pollock cross was met by Zoe Cunningham whose first time effort rattled the crossbar. Ebony Dover then had her effort ruled out. Undaunted Argyle continued to push forward and were rewarded when a low Becky Dandridge corner was met by Ebony Dover whose first time effort flew into the top corner of the net to send the teams in level 1-1 at half time.
Cardiff who had plenty of substitutes continued to rotate their team but it was Argyle substitute Solloway who caught the eye when fellow Cornish player Tori Marks made a fast break down the right before crossing to the youngster who scored at the second attempt. Argyle continued to press with Cunningham winning the ball in midfield before finding Kayleigh Brown who set Marks on another fast break. Marks spotted Solloway racing into the penalty area, found her with the perfect cross for the young striker to score with an unerring finish. The win was sealed when an Ebony Dover free kick was headed in by Knapman.
Argyle return to action on Sunday when they travel to Charlestown for their third pre season game.
Squad: Katie Middleton, Dani Barr, Darcey Hepworth, Mollie Taylor, Ebony Dover, Becky Dandridge, Kayley Lane, Zoe Cunningham, Ezme Wells, Natasha Knapman, Amber Pollock, Kayleigh Brown, Tori Marks, Lucy Solloway
Goals: Lucy Solloway 2, Ebony Dover, Natasha Knapman
