In a thrilling cup encounter at South Reddish Park on 29 September 2024, Bury FC Development Team emerged victorious with a scoreline of 3-1 against AFC Stockport Lionesses. The match kicked off at 2:00 pm, showcasing a competitive display from both sides.
Bury FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allowed for a solid defensive structure complemented by an agile midfield and a dynamic attacking front. Ava Powell took her position as the goalkeeper, shielded by a back four consisting of Eleanor Irvine on the right, Katie Worsick and Gemma Kershaw in central defence, with Hannah Skinner occupying the left. The midfield was anchored by central players Charlotte Pearson and Jane Mechen, providing both defensive cover and attacking support. Ahead of them, Gemma Hodcroft operated as a right attacking midfielder, Danielle Halton played centrally, and Hermione Barlow was on the left, with Daisi Daniels leading the line as the striker.
The substitutes for Bury included Rachel Todd, Paige Massey, Danielle Halliday, and Niamh Mandeville, who were poised to make an impact if called upon during the match.
The match commenced with both teams probing for an early advantage, but Bury faced an early setback when Gemma Kershaw had to be substituted due to injury in the 26th minute, making way for Rachel Todd. This forced a tactical reshuffle, but Bury maintained their composure.
As the first half drew to a close, both teams went into the break at 0-0, with AFCStockport holding a slight edge in possession but unable to convert their chances. The second half began with AFC Stockport Lionesses striking first, scoring with a right-footed effort in the 54th minute to take a deserved lead.
However, Bury responded swiftly; just two minutes later, in the 56th minute, Gemma Hodcroft equalised with a well-placed right-footed shot from inside the box, assisted by a pass from Rachel Todd. This goal gave Bury some momentum.
In the 63rd minute, Bury took the lead as Daisi Daniels scored following a long pass from Hannah Skinner, executing a confident right-footed finish, against the run of play.
AFC Stockport Lionesses attempted to regroup but were unable to find a second goal. In the 74th minute, Bury made another substitution as Hermione Barlow came on for Eleanor Irvine, who was suffering with cramp.
Bury's resilient defending, which included key saves from Ava Powell complemented by their counter-attacking style proved vital, and in the 88th minute, Gemma Hodcroft netted her second goal of the match, scoring from the edge of the box by slipping it past the on-coming keeper, after receiving a pin-point pass from Paige Massey. This goal sealed the victory for Bury, making the score 3-1 as the match neared its conclusion.
In the final minutes, Bury made one last tactical change, bringing Charlotte Pearson back on for Hodcroft in the 89th minute. The referee, Charlotte Ivens, ensured the match concluded smoothly, reflecting a solid performance throughout.
The final whistle blew, and Bury FC Development Team celebrated a hard-earned victory, showcasing their resilience and attacking prowess against AFC Stockport Lionesses. With standout performances, particularly from Gemma Hodcroft, they advanced into the next round of the cup.
