On a day when two Devon rivals came together to support one of their own, it was Plymouth Argyle who came out on top on an emotionally-charged occasion at Home Park.
Ahead of the game, PAFC had committed to joining forces with TUFC to help support their former player and current Gull, Roxy Thomas, who is was diagnosed with a Brain Tumour in pre-season.
With all proceeds from ticket sales from the Group Stage tie directly benefitting Roxy’s fundraiser, a healthy showing of fans from both sides helped swell the stands, and it was the hosts who got off to the perfect start.
The game was just five minutes old when Brooklyn Brothers sent a stunning free kick past Ellie Mitchell, and into the top corner of the net.
Although a disappointment for United, any watching neutrals would no doubt have been hoping for a golafest after such a quick start to teh action, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite pan out that way.
The remainder of the first period failed to produce much more in the way of goalmouth action, leaving the Pilgrims to take a one-goal lead to the dressing rooms.
Following the restart, things looked a little more positive for Ryan Perks’ side, with Sarah Stacey forcing a good save from Plymouth custodian Giles.
Former Exeter City striker Stacey would have been as keen as anyone to score against the Greens, and the best chances continued to fall her way, with another effort just past the hours mark forcing the Argyle keeper into more action.
By now, the home side seemed to be content to settle for what they had, and on a day when United’s attacking threat never real got into top gear, it just about proved to be enough.
Plymouth’s win takes them through to the next stage of the FAWNL League Cup, whilst for United, they were left to wait on results elsewhere before their place in the Plate competition was confirmed.
Today though, was more than just football though. It was about something far, far more important.
Thank you, Argyle, for joining us in #RaisingForRoxy.
To donate to Roxy Thomas’ fundraiser, click HERE
UNITED:1. Ellie Mitchell, 2. Ella-Mae Miller (16. Brooke Ellis, 56′), 4. Jess Geach, 5. Amii Kearley, 6. Matilda Franchi (23. Dan Tyson, 76′), 8. Katelyn Bell, 14. Jas Barker, 15. Sarah Stacey, 17. Katie Dickson, 19. Mollie Taylor, 20. Beth Ireland.
SUBS NOT USED: 13. Hannah Bishop, 25. Hope Brinicombe.
Photo Credit: Craig Stevens
