Lowestoft Town overcame a resilient Shrublands to secure a 3-1 away win in their second league game of the season on Sunday afternoon. 

Goals from Louise Nichols, Beth Turner and Lauren Goulder saw Lowestoft lead 3-0, Shrublands scored 18 minutes from time to claim a deserved goal for their afternoon efforts but Lowestoft were deserving of the Three points. 

The game was as difficult as expected against the newly promoted outfit at Southtown Common on what was a brand new away day for Lowestoft.

Lowestoft got an early goal to calm the nerves scoring inside two minutes when Abi Bell headed an incredible ball across goal for Louise Nichols to tap in. It was the perfect start. 

The remainder of the first half was scrappy with little to write home about. Shrublands were spirited and made life difficult for Lowestoft. Chloe Pearce having to make a couple of good saves to keep the Trawler Girls in front at the break. 

It was a first half of few chances but the Lowestoft defence of Mia Wilson, Fran Heaney and Charnelle Riggall were superb all afternoon. 

The second half saw more action than the first half period as just eight minutes in Beth Turner won a penalty and scored it to put daylight between the teams and send Lowestoft well on their way to a win. 

Shrublands continued to push and thought they had halved the scoreline when they got the ball over the line but an offside was given against them and the goal disallowed. 

Midway through the second half came the third as Beth Turner this time assisted finding Lauren Goulder who kept running and finished well to make it three and put Shrublands out of sight. 

Shrublands had the honour of scoring the goal of the afternoon when Lauren Dennis scored a true top bins strike to give them something Shrublands fully deserved for their efforts. 

Shrublands pushed for a second but were unable to cause further damage to a Lowestoft defence who were magnificent all afternoon. 

The game ended in a deserved 3-1 win for Lowestoft and despite Shrublands efforts and endeavour the result never really looked in any doubt as Lowestoft continue their 100% start to the season as they bid to retain the title. Louise Nichols was Lowestoft Player of the match for a superb hard working performance throughout the contest. 

Thoughts turn to cup action next for the Trawler Girls as Lowestoft head to Aylsham on Sunday 11th October for the first round of the Norfolk Women and Girls League Cup. 

For now though Lowestoft can celebrate a 100% start to the season as Iain Spoor and his team come out of a challenging away trip with flying colours. 

Up the Trawler Girls!

By Darrell Allen 

Photo: Lucy Eagle