The Fleet created an early chance that allowed Madison Woodgate to counter on the break and she was able to cut the ball back across the six-yard box but it was collected securely by the Saltdean keeper. Her twin sister, Amelia Woodgate claimed a chance as she unleashed a shot just over the bar following a superb solo run from Lily Hewitt, who took on the majority of the Saltdean defence.
The Fleet continued to dominate both possession and chances. In the 13th minute Amelia Woodgate teed up nicely with Lily Hewitt who nearly grabbed the Fleet’s opener after she skewed her shot just wide.
Despite early possession from the Fleet, Saltdean found the breakthrough. An initial well saved shot from Ash Naismith found a Saltdean attacker on the edge of the area where she dispatched the rebound, earning the hosts the lead in this League Cup tie.
Saltdean pushed on from their opener as they earned a free-kick on the edge of the area – their effort was over.
The Fleet earned an equaliser with the final action of the first half. Stef Simmons fired a shot from the edge of the area towards the Saltdean keeper which was subsequently dropped into the path of Amelia Woodgate who slotted the ball home.
It was level at the break but Saltdean snatched their second when Georgia Bridges linked up with Catlin Sullivan to drive the ball home and take the lead.
The Fleet began to pile the pressure on as Amelia Woodgate sent a lovely ball across the six-yard box as she broke through the Saltdean defence but the ball was eventually cleared away for a corner on the hour mark. The ball fell to Charley Clifford’s feet from the resulting corner but she was unable to put the ball on target and drove her shot over the bar.
Phoebe Murton carried the ball down the right-hand flank where she then cut the ball back to Clifford who was situated on the edge of the box but her resulting shot was blocked and cleared for a corner.
Another free-kick was awarded to the Fleet which Amelia Woodgate stepped up to take, however the ball was scrambled away and was sent out for a corner.
Despite a late charge from the Fleet it would be Saltdean who would progress into the next round of the League Cup.
TEAM: Naismith, Murton, Iron, Waud, Porter, SImmons, A.Woodgate, Hewitt, Clifford, M.Woodgate, Carlton. Subs: Grieve, George
