Golcar United Ladies booked their place in the next round of the League Cup after a dramatic afternoon that ended with a 6–5 penalty shootout victory over Forge Way, following a thrilling 3–3 draw in normal time.
Played on a sunny afternoon on a 4G surface at Batley Sports and Tennis Centre, the game truly lived up to its description as a game of two halves, with momentum swinging repeatedly from start to finish.
The match began in difficult circumstances for Golcar when Lilia Aspeling was forced off injured after just three minutes. Paige Tandy entered the game early and would go on to play a decisive role.
Golcar grew into the contest and were rewarded in the 40th minute. A well-worked team move saw Larissa Lawson pick out Paige Tandy, who calmly finished into the bottom corner to give Golcar a deserved lead.
That advantage was short-lived. Forge Way responded immediately, equalising in the 41st minute before turning the game on its head with another goal three minutes later to take a 2–1 lead into the break.
A triple change at half-time brought renewed energy and control. Tiah Smith, Rebecca Moore, and Ruby Greaves all entered the action and made an immediate impact on the tempo of the game.
The equaliser arrived in the 62nd minute when Tiah Smith reacted quickly to a mis-kicked goal kick from the Forge Way goalkeeper, calmly placing the ball into the bottom right corner.
Golcar continued to push and regained the lead in the 85th minute. Another strong team move ended with Ellie Thornton providing the assist for Paige Tandy, who once again found the bottom corner to make it 3–2.
Forge Way struck late in the 90th minute to level the match at 3–3 and send the tie to penalties.
The shootout proved tense from the start, with early misses on both sides. Golcar’s scorers were:
Despite misses from Tiah Smith and Hannah Lynch, the shootout turned decisively in Golcar’s favour thanks to Demi Wood, who produced an outstanding performance in goal. Forge Way hit the bar with one penalty, and Demi saved two spot-kicks, including a crucial low save to her right that sealed the victory.
Golcar won the shootout 6–5 and progressed to the next round.
Player of the Match: Ellie Thornton
A standout display full of energy, composure, and leadership, capped by a composed penalty in the shootout.
Manager Nathan Martin said:
“We’re delighted to get through to the next round this afternoon. The players showed great resilience and character, especially after the setbacks we faced during the game.”
Golcar United Ladies return to Batley Sports and Tennis Centre to face Forge Way again on 9 November 2025, kick-off at 2:00 PM.
A hard-fought cup tie, a strong collective response, and a reminder of the belief and togetherness within this squad.
Match Sponsor: On The Move Removals
Golcar United Ladies FC would like to thank On The Move Removals for their generous sponsorship of this fixture.
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