REPORT: ATWFC 0-4 WREXHAM AFC WOMEN

Aberystwyth Town Women travelled to The Rock on the opening day of the Genero Adran Premier season to face a strong Wrexham AFC Women side, with the hosts full of confidence following their recent European campaign and showing why they remain one of the leading teams in the Genero Adran Premier.

CREDIT: SAM EADON/FAW

Despite the final scoreline, there were plenty of positives for the Seasiders to take from a committed and spirited performance against top-quality opposition. As always, Aberystwyth worked tirelessly and gave everything for the badge and displaying resilience, determination and a positive attitude from the first whistle to the last.

Wrexham enjoyed most of the possession and controlled large spells of the contest, but Aberystwyth's defensive organisation remained strong and disciplined. The Seasiders frustrated the hosts for much of the opening half-hour before the deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute with a glanced header.

Despite Wrexham's dominance of the ball, Aberystwyth continued to defend resolutely and limited further opportunities, reaching the half-time interval trailing by just a single goal.

The hosts emerged strongly after the break and struck twice in quick succession shortly after half-time to gain firm control of the contest. Both sides utilised their squads throughout the second half with a number of changes, while Wrexham added a fourth goal in the 73rd minute to complete the scoring.

While the result ultimately went in favour of the hosts, Aberystwyth can take great encouragement from several individual performances and important milestones within the squad.

Goalkeeper Megan Bowen impressed on her debut for the club, producing several excellent saves throughout the afternoon to deny a relentless Wrexham attack and showcasing her quality between the posts.

There were also memorable full senior debuts for Mali Yim-Jones at 16 years old and Chloe Edwards at 15 years old, both making their first appearances in senior football and for Aberystwyth Town Women. The young duo showed maturity beyond their years, working tirelessly and making a strong impression against one of the league's strongest sides.

Another positive was the introduction of Llio Henshaw, who came off the bench to make her first appearance for Aberystwyth Town Women and her debut in the Genero Adran Premier.

Although the Seasiders returned home empty-handed, the performance was full of character and commitment. Facing a Wrexham side packed with quality and fresh from European competition provided a stern test, but Aberystwyth never stopped working, never let their heads drop, and continued to battle until the final whistle.

Thank you to all the fans that made the journey to North Wales. We look forward to seeing you for our first home game of the season against Swansea City Women on the 13^th of September, 2pm.