Seven wins on the trot
DERBY County Women celebrated a seventh win on the trot before going into a two-week break.
They beat Barnsley 5-0 in the FA Women’s National League Cup at Mickleover, taking control in the second half.
Ewe Rams boss Sam Griffith rang the changes after a busy week but despite dominating the first half, only Emily Joyce’s strike separated the sides.
Ellie Gilliatt’s fierce shot was tipped on to the bar by the Tykes keeper and Joyce reacted quickest to score.
At half-time, Griffiths made a triple substitution, bringing on the rested Jade Formaston, Megan Tinsley and Kira Rai.
That change paid off as Tinsley fired her first into the roof of the net after being picked out by Sarah Jackson inside the box, before she combined with Rai to hook home a right-footed effort from the edge of the area.
Rai had a hand in the fourth goal too, as her cross alllowed Joyce to score her second.
And Gilliatt extended her impressive run of form with another stunning strike that made it 12 goals for the season. It was her 11th in her last six games as Ewe Rams advanced to the next round.
Griffiths will now hope some injuries clear up before they return to action on October 24 against West Bromwich Albion at Mickleover.
“It was a solid performance, we dominated but it took us some time to get the goals,” said Griffiths.
“It’s always pleasing to score goals but I’m equally proud that we have now gone five games without conceding.
“We can now rest ahead of West Brom, give the girls a wellearned rest and clear up any lingering niggles we have.”