Exeter City Women progressed to the Semi Final of the Devon County Cup with a hard-fought win over Torquay United at Coach Road on Sunday, the team’s third victory in seven days.
With the clouds looming heavily over the Newton Abbot venue, City knew that it was not just the meteorological storm they would have to weather, as the Gulls started the game with anticipated fervor. After an opening of few chances, but plenty for Referee Ashley Harris to contemplate, Torquay created a golden opportunity to take the lead. Ellie Bishop, a player blessed with exceptional pace, had already threatened the City defence and, on her latest footrace with Mollie Taylor, the Grecians’ defender mistimed her challenge and a penalty was awarded.
Torquay, penalties, Coach Road, Devon County Cup, there was a touch of DeJa'Vu about the occasion, but City Goalkeeper Abbi Bond has a strong record from spot kicks and she held onto Bishop’s drilled effort to keep the score level.
Bishop and Bond were soon in close contact again, the Torquay forward read the bounce of the ball over the City defence and, after being denied by Bond, was further thwarted by the block of Zoe Watkins.
With the Grecians looking nervy and unable to set their own tempo, it was some good fortune that gave them the lead. Connie Pengelly received the ball in space and hit a dipping shot from distance, United keeper Konnie Klecskowski was unable to judge the bounce and it slipped through her hands and into the net.
Settled by the goal, City now began to play the type of football that had seen two excellent league victories in the past week. Pengelly chipped a perfect cross to Phoebe Baker and, as her shot was blocked, Sarah Stacey smashed the ball straight into Klecskowski’s hands. A succession of corners and shots from distance failed to create any clearer chances, but the uncertainty of the first twenty minutes had subsided as the half time whistle blew.
Steve Elswood’s side began the second half brightly, Bishop forcing the issue on the Gulls left and Manfy Sharpe making a strong near post block to prevent the shot. A free kick on the edge of the City penalty area was hit with power but too much height, as City looked more resolute in defence despite the initial pressure.
It was to be more penalty drama that ultimately settled the tie. A well worked cross found the run of Sarah Stacey and as she connected with the ball she was clattered into by Klecskowski and the penalty was awarded. Zoe Watkins is ever reliable from the spot and calmly slotted in her sixth goal of the season after a long delay from Stacey’s treatment.
In the pouring rain, City had now gained full control of the contest, playing some neat possession football as Baker was linking midfield and attack with regularity. Whilst City had subdued the Torquay threat, it is to the Gulls credit that they limited the Grecians to shots from distance as they fought tirelessly to keep the score at two.
Chloe Gilroy, making her first start and now closing in on full fitness, is beginning to show her quality, and the former Bridgwater forward had the best chance to extend the lead. A City free kick was blocked into her path and, with the goal open, her shot was brilliantly blocked to deny a certain goal.
Abbie Britton and Aaron Wakley will be delighted with three wins in a week, with three clean sheets to go alongside them. Next up is the start of the Grecians Women’s FA Cup campaign as they head to Saltash United on Sunday afternoon.