Actonian Reserves start the new year with a Home fixture in the 3rd Round of the League Cup, vs Premier Division (Tier 5) side Barking Women who currently sit 5th in their league.

With a really positive team talk to start the year from both the coaches and the players, we approached this game as we should every game - we go out to win, nothing less.
The first half had the same pattern for the whole 45 minutes - it was very even with a positive start. Both teams playing well when in possession which was shared equally, but no real chances being created. Albeit 0-0, it was a positive first half and lots to discuss at half time and take into the second half.

Half Time: Actonian Reserves 0-0 Barking Women

The second half began and Barking came out the blocks quickly, grabbing a goal on the 49th minute. Barking's number 10 was open in the midfield and she played a through ball for their number 14 to run onto and slot past our goalkeeper. Acton 0-1 Barking.

Now the first goal had been scored, both teams went on to have wave after wave of attacks, unfortunately none really testing either goalkeeper or the backline.
However, on the 58th minute, Acton pressed on a Barking goal kick and we were able to win the ball high. Ella played a pass into Lauren, who was unmarked and in aches of space, was able to take a positive first touch and let loose a long range shot which went through the middle of the Barking goalkeepers hands. Acton 1-1 Barking.

From here on, Acton continued to frustrate Barking - forcing mistakes, winning the ball, creating chances and remaining in the game.
The third goal of the game came on the 66th minute when Acton again pressed the Barking midfield, Ella picked up a loose pass to play through the ball to Annabel in the 18 yard box who hit it first time past the goalkeeper. Acton 2-1 Barking.

There was still at least 20 minutes of play remaining, Barking changed to a 3-at the back- formation in order to find an equaliser.
The referee awarded Barking with two free-kicks just outside the 18-yard box in the dying minutes of the extra time, of the extra time, both of which came to nothing.

Full Time: Actonian Reserves 2-1 Barking Women

The draw for the next round, the quarter final, has already taken place, and we will travel away to face another Premier Division (Tier 5) side, Dorking Wonderers. This tie takes place on Sunday 2nd February 2025, with a 3.30pm kick off time at Meadowbank Stadium.

We turn back to the league this weekend as we welcome local team Denham United to Gunnersbury Park for the usual 2pm kick off.