Crystal Palace Ladies FC

The Blues returned to the top of the table with an emphatic 8-1 away victory at Ascot.

The Blues knew that a win would return them to first place in the league, three points clear of Molesey and still with a game in hand.

The intent of the team was shown straight from kick off as Sarah almost scored from an Ellie through ball.

It was via another long range shot from Ellie that the Blues took the lead and top scorer Sarah doubled the lead with a trademark finish moments later. Ellie added a third just before halftime when she scored direct from a corner.

It could have been more with chances falling to Martha, Sophie and Keeley but the Ascot defence just about managed to hold on until the whistle.

H/t Ascot 0 Blues 3

Ascot started the second half strongly and with purpose which the Blues struggled to contain. The home side pulled one back to briefly lift the hopes of their supporters but the optimism was short lived as Keeley scored to re-establish a three goal lead.

Sarah added two more to complete her hat trick before goals from Sophie and Natalie completed the rout. The Blues even had the luxury of missing their first ever penalty after the Ascot keeper made a great save from Amy.

After the match manager Joe Fazzino said "This was a quality team performance by my team. Every player performed above expectations and showed how much winning this title means to them. The defence were a solid unit, Amy and Ellie in midfield were outstanding and our forward line is the best in the league. We now head down to Molesey next Sunday in what will be the title decider but it is them that will be under pressure. My girls will be ready and will be going there with the confidence that comes from being top of the league".