Words Brian Flynn Pictures Michael Ripley

Altrincham FC Women take on Witton Albion at Nantwich Town FC today (kick-off 3pm) in The Cheshire Women’s and Youth League, Challenge Cup Final and are hoping to go one step further in the same competition than the 2014 final, when we were beaten by Crewe Alexandra.

It was a tremendous achievement to reach the final, less than three years after the club was formed as Altrincham FC Ladies (the name change to Altrincham FC Women was made in 2021).

The game was played at Lostock Gralam FC on a bright sunny afternoon on Sunday, April 27th, 2014 and manager Keith Edleston was without 41 goal leading scorer Tracey Blanchard-Webb, who had suffered concussion in the previous match.

Alty’s line-up included Brogan Walsh, who, remarkably, has been involved since the women’s team was formed in 2011 and who played a big part in reaching today’s final, with involvement in the first and third goals in the semi-final win against Nantwich Town.

1.Lizzie Brereton, 2. Sam Briggs, 3. Caroline Moran, 4. Heather Scott, 5. Louise Edleston, 6. Tallullah Anton, 7. Natalie Thornley, 8. Hannah Shufflebotham, 9. Aimee Gibson, 10. Gail Simpson, 11. Brogan Walsh. Subs: 12. Hayley McCardy, 14. Kathryn Macintyre, 15. Beth Crellin, 16. Cloe Allsop, 17. Rebecca Hailes.

It was a tense and tight Final. Both teams defended very well, with Caroline Moran outstanding for Alty.

Scoreless after 90 minutes, the game was settled by a Crewe goal early in the second half of extra-time and captain, Heather Scott was inconsolable.

“There were tears. We left everything on the pitch over 120 minutes, and I was devastated to not come away with the win.

“It’s cup final day again today and whilst it’s a different team it’s the same dream.

“I wish this year’s players and coaches all the best and I really hope you go one better and bring home the trophy.”

For more of Michael Ripley’s excellent photos from the 2014 Final click here.