Women’s East Conference: Lee-Smith hat-trick helps Harleston Magpies hammer poor Bedford

Harleston Magpies had another triumphant win this weekend, beating Bedford 5-1.

Last time Magpies faced Bedford they had a disappointing 1-0 defeat but this time the ladies had worked on their tactics and team work and managed to put five away against the Bedford defence.

Magpies started well with a goal in the 10th minute of the game, coming from an intercepted pass straight to Emma Lee-Smith, who hit the ball into the top right-hand corner of the goal.

Magpies' team work and stable formation caused problems for the Bedford defence again and a short corner led to another goal from Lee-Smith just seven minutes after.

Magpies' midfield of Debbie Francis, Louisa Greenacre, Amy Campbell, Lauren Barber and Charlotte Harrison controlled the middle of the pitch and stopped Bedford from making attacking plays. This allowed for the Magpies attack to have multiple chances to score, which Susan Wessels took, receiving the ball standing on the penalty spot and placing it calmly in the back of the goal.

The second half started and Bedford were not ready to give up the fight but the Magpies defence held strong and they regained their composure and put pressure back on Bedford, gaining their fourth goal through Wessels at a short corner. Lee-Smith then completed her hat-trick by driving along the back line and flicking the ball over the goalkeeper.

Bedford however never gave up and pulled one back for a consolation.

With a few minutes left the goal did not have an impact on the end result and Magpies will be hoping this run of wins continues against Horsham this weekend.