AFC Bournemouth’s record breaking run in the Women’s FA Cup came to an abrupt end at the hands of Charlton Athletic, but not before giving them a bit of a scare. Playing in the Third Round for the first time, Bournemouth attracted a crowd of 1,675 to the Vitality Stadium for this tie against the Championship side. Coming into the game, both teams were sitting on top of their respective tables, but with two divisions between them it was always going to be a tough test for the hosts.
Bournemouth put up a spirited defence during a goalless first half, working hard to keep their opponents at bay. In fact, the home side felt aggrieved after a big shout for a penalty was turned down when Gemma Hillier’s cross appeared to strike the hand of Charlton defender.
It was not until the 55th minute that Charlton managed to break the deadlock through Karin Muya, scoring her first goal for the Addicks. The difference between the two sides now started to show, and within 5 minutes the game had been put to bed with the lead stretched to three – a deflected effort from Melissa Johnson and a second goal for Muya. The Bournemouth players tired in the closing stages and Charlton picked them off with further goals from Angela Addison, Carla Humphrey and a second for Johnson to wrap up a six goal victory.
We were fortunate to have photographer Ian Middlebrook on hand to capture the action.
