Isle of Man U18 Girls produced an outstanding away performance to gain revenge over Chorley Phoenix, who had defeated them in last season’s home fixture. With memories of that defeat still lingering, the IOM travelled with a mix of nerves and determination, fully focused on putting things right.
The opening stages of the game were cagey, with both sides competing hard for possession. Despite playing away from home, the IOM girls created the better chances, moving the ball confidently and pressing Chorley high up the pitch. The breakthrough came on 30 minutes when Lucy Cartwright reacted well off the keepers pads to give the IOM a deserved lead. The Isle of Man went into half time 1–0 ahead.
The second half saw the Isle of Man raise the tempo and turn control into goals. Just five minutes after the restart, Summer Craig doubled the lead with a composed finish at the back post. Only three minutes later, slick passing play by Ela Blakemore and Elena Caley opened up the Chorley defence, allowing Emma Worsfold to add a third goal from an extremely tight angle. The pressure continued, and a high press from the Isle of Man paid dividends as Emma Worsfold scored again following a well-timed pass from Evie Watterson.
Summer Craig added her second after an excellent interception from Player of the Match Isla Collister and a perfectly weighted through ball from Lucy Cartwright. Isla Caine then capped off a superb all-round performance by scoring the sixth goal, sealing an emphatic 6–0 away victory.
A dominant, disciplined display and a statement win for the Isle of Man U18 Girls leading into the next round.