MATCH REPORT: NORTHAMPTON TOWN WOMEN 2 - 0 LINCOLN UNITED WFC

Lincoln United Women fell to their first defeat in 10 games as they succumbed to Champions, Northampton Town Women, 2-0. United welcomed back Lauren Churcher but were without midfield general, Heather Gardener and a number of other first team regulars, including Abi Ringrose who limped out of training with a torn hamstring.

The match, for the majority was battled out in the middle of the pitch, neither side created huge clear-cut opportunities. The first chance of the game went to Northampton as an attack down United's left saw a cross parried into a dangerous area but Hood recovered to block the subsequent follow-up shot.

Northampton limited United significantly in the first-half but 'The Whites' did hit the bar from a long-range, Olivia Smith, free-kick. However, the home-side got the first goal when United were cheap in possession, around Northampton's area; 'The Cobblers' counter-attacked quickly with captain, Cudone, smashing into the net after beating Olivia Smith in the area.

Northampton Town Women 1 - 0 #TheWhites

The remainder of the half saw neither side create any chances but Northampton edged 'The Whites' all over the pitch and deservedly led.

Northampton Town Women 1 - 0 Lincoln United FC (HT)

United made a change at half-time, Cairns replaced by Duxbury-Mead and with that, a change in formation. It was 'The Whites' who started the second period better, with Churcher getting in behind; her cross which was destined for Murrell was deflected into the hands of the 'Cobblers' keeper, unfortunately for United.

United continued to work the ball into semi-dangerous areas but could never quite find the final touch to generate a goal scoring chance. Northampton defended resolutely and hit United on the counter again to grab their second goal of the game. This time a surging run down United's right saw a cross to the back-post which was turned towards goal by Cooper, the shot ricocheting of the post and into the net.

Northampton Town Women 2 - 0 #TheWhites

United huffed and puffed for the remaining 15 minutes but couldn't quite reach their normal levels, resulting in Northampton running out deserved winners and ultimately East Midlands Regional Premier Division Champions.

'The Whites' now turn their attention to the final two games of the season with the objective of finishing 2nd, before heading to the Cup Final on the 22nd May.

Northampton Town Women 2 - 0 Lincoln United FC (FT)