LLANYRAFON Ladies beat holders Cardiff City Ladies to book their place in the 2013/14 FAW U16 Girls Cup Final at a blustery Cardiff Metropolitan University.
On a perfect 3G pitch in Cyncoed, the teams had to battle with the elements as the side from Gwent played into the strong wind in the first-half. The territorial advantage in the opening half belonged to Cardiff despite Llanyrafon keeper Jodie Buck's fine kicking into the wind. But against the run of play, Kevin Sims' side Llanyrafon took the lead five minutes before the break and it was a goal that was worthy of winning any tie. Midfield dynamo Georgia Groves unleashed a terrific 30 yard strike which sailed into the top left corner, leaving City keeper Erin Brennan no chance.
In the second half, Llanyrafon dominated both possession and territory and had several opportunities to extend their lead. Ffion Llewellyn had three early chances as her pace enabled her to get beyond the City defence. Her first chance went wide, the second deflected for a corner and the third was a fine strike, but Brennan saved well.
The best move of the match came midway through the second half, as Llanyrafon built well from the back, but Jessica Williams' shot sailed just over.
Cardiff tried their best to get the equaliser, with Monty May and Sophie Cardy looking dangerous, but Kate Webb and Amy Sims were solid at the back all day long to help Buck keep the clean sheet, which took Llanyrafon to their first National Final.
LLANYRAFON LADIES AFC : Jodie Buck, Ashleigh Hill, Chloe Jones, Mikaela Roberts, Chloe Leonard, Georgia Groves, Amy Sims, Delyth Williams, Ffion Llewellyn, Kate Webb ©, Jessica Williams Substitutes : Bethan Percival, Isobel Biggs, Macayla Richards, Morgan Jonah, Kate Baldock
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