Preston North End Women reached the next round of the Lancashire FA Women’s Challenge Cup on Sunday afternoon after a 3-0 win against Bolton Wanderers Girls Reserves.

Their exit from the Argyle Sports Kit North West Regional Cup after a 5-2 defeat to Salford City saw PNE Women looking to return to triumph and progress further in other competitions.

The team created numerous chances right from kick off at UCLan Sports Arena, notably a top left corner chance from Samantha Ball and a powerful shot from Madison Hadley that was denied by Bolton’s defence.

More chances followed from both teams, with many shots hitting woodwork on both nets, but excellent defending from PNE prevented Bolton from scoring.

It was a challenge from the Bolton keeper in the 22nd minute that saw the referee point to the penalty spot, much to the fury of the opposition, which an unfazed Katie Woodhead tapped into the back of the net to open the scoring for Preston.

Samantha Ball’s impact was notable through her empowerment of the team, which inspired the Lilywhites to pile the pressure onto a visibly frustrated Bolton.

Read More: PNE Women ease through to the second round of the cup

Teenager Abi Cookson extended North End’s lead just eight minutes later, with a tap in from a shot that originally hit the crossbar.

In the second half, Preston looked confident on the ball and it was clear to see their determination for more goals.

Superb attempts from Preston North End were kept out by the Bolton goalkeeper, including a set of on-target free kicks and a dangerous run from Hadley.

Abi Cookson added to her first half goal with another confident close range shot, making it a full time result of 3-0 to the girls.

PNE Women will now travel to face Morecambe Ladies development team in the third round of the Lancashire FA Women’s Challenge Cup on Sunday 20 November.

Their next game is Sunday 23 October against Bradford City AFC Women in the Women’s FA Cup third qualifying round. Bradford sit two divisions above PNE in the FA Women’s National League Division One North.

PNE Women are supported by Preston North End Community and Education Trust which provides resources and staffing.

The Trust’s Soccer School and Activity Zone is running its programme from Monday 24 October during half term, which involves courses and sessions for children to enjoy during their week off.

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