Crawley Wasps return to action with big win over Plymouth

Immy Lancaster, Naomi Cole and Nikita Whinnett also netted as Wasps shook off the rustiness of the enforced six-week break with a good performance in difficult weather conditions.

It took Wasps just two minutes to break the deadlock, as Tash Stephens’ cross arrived at the feet of Lancaster and she buried it from 10 yards. Chances continued to flow, with Cole twice firing just over and Owen pulling a shot wide, before Wasps doubled the lead on 24 minutes.

A fine passing move, involving Holly Talbut-Smith, Lancaster and Whinnett led to Owen drilling the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. It was a real boost for former Lewes midfielder Owen, who was playing her first game after a lengthy injury.

However, a young Plymouth side – who had lost all six games this season – did not roll over. Wensday Wise forced Wasps keeper Megen Lynch into a fine save and Emily Mousley smashed a shot against the bar.

But Wasps continued to have the better of the match in the second half, with Whinnett having a shot saved, Lancaster firing over and Owen’s header ruled out for offside.

They did go further ahead on 69 minutes, with Cole’s corner going straight in at the near post, and Whinnett wrapped things up from a tight angle. Ellie Russell hit the bar late on.

Wasps continue their defence of the Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup on Friday night when they travel to Lewes DS, before travelling to Keynsham Town in the league on Sunday.

WASPS: Lynch; Talbut-Smith, Russell, Palmer, Nash; Owen (Green 65), Cole, Lancaster; Stephens, Whinnett, Plewa (Jackson 79). Subs not used: James, Wignall. Skin:genius/Primal Grazing player of the match: Charlotte Owen.

Ami Martins put Wasps’ reserves ahead at Keynsham Town reserves but the hosts hit back to win 2-1. Iris Corden scored a terrific last-minute winner as the Under-13s beat Pevensey & Westham 3-2, with Jasmine Smith and Grace Deweer also on target, while Imogen Beasley, Letitia Terry, Lucie Wormull and Emillie Peacock all scored twice in the Under-12s’ 8-1 win over Horsham Sparrows.