Womens 1 vs Leeds 1

Ben Rhydding Women 2  Leeds 1

Ben Rhydding made a strong statement in their opening league fixture of the season, securing a hard-fought 2–1 victory over local rivals Leeds in front of a vocal home crowd who came out on Saturday in the most torrential weather conditions. 

The home side struck early, with debutant Lois Nevison marking her first appearance in style. Just 9 minutes in, she latched onto a sharp ball into the D and produced a superb first-time deflection to slot the ball beneath the diving Leeds goalkeeper—an instinctive finish that gave Ben Rhydding the perfect start.

Despite the early goal, Leeds responded with pressure of their own, earning a series of short corners throughout the half. However, the visitors struggled to break down a solid Ben Rhydding defence, and some sharp goalkeeping from skipper, Charlotte Smith, kept them at bay. At the other end Chloe Cundick —facing her former team—came close to doubling the lead on several occasions, while Michelle Morris delivered a number of dangerous crosses into the D that went just begging for a finishing touch.

Ben Rhydding came out strong again after the break and were rewarded just 1 minute into the second half. Alice Midgley with the second goal, this time sweeping the ball under the outstretched Leeds keeper to cap off a well-worked team move.

Within two minutes Leeds capitalised on another schort corner with Alice Blades converting from a second-phase effort after the initial save to make it 2–1.

The home side continued to dominate possession, showcasing excellent ball transfer and cohesive link-up play across the pitch and held firm in the closing stages to see out the win and claim all three points in what was a physical and competitive encounter.

Captain, Charlotte Smith said after the game "This was a confident and composed performance to kick off the campaign—Ben Rhydding proved they’re a team to watch this season and left no doubt about who currently holds bragging rights in Yorkshire."