Winchester City Flyers Reserves produced a spirited performance but came runners-up in the Hampshire County Women's Football League Invitation Cup Final on Sunday, May 10th, losing 5-4 on penalties to Millbrook after a pulsating 3-3 draw.

The match, played with real intensity, showcased the Reserves’ resilience as they fought back from behind in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the Charters Community Stadium.

Ahead of the match, the players were introduced to Vanessa Raynbird, 1981 Women's FA Cup Winner, now Director of Football for Hampshire FA, and also Barbara Watts, Secretary of Hampshire Women's League.

The visitors took the lead in the 26th minute when Millbrook’s skipper curled a superb direct free-kick into the net from 30 yards, giving goalkeeper Gemma Hough no chance.

Minutes later, the Southampton-based side doubled their lead, catching the Flyers keeper in no man's land.

Winchester responded well, a piercing drive by Poppy Anderson from the edge of the box, nutmegging the Millbrook keeper to reduce the deficit right before the break.

The Dockers extended their lead to 3-1 in the 69th minute as they capitalised on a defensive lapse as the Flyers attempted to play out from the back.

Undeterred, the Flyers mounted a dramatic comeback.

Kim Ward was a constant threat, and in the 81st minute, she smashed home to make it 3-2, igniting hopes of forcing extra time.

With just three minutes remaining, Ward was played through once more and finished coolly despite the Millbrook keeper getting a hand to it, levelling the score at 3-3 and sending the game to a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, both teams showed composure initially. Millie Callum, Jessica Stillwell, Anderson, and Ward all converted for the Flyers, while Millbrook also scored steadily.

However, when it went to sudden death, Millbrook took advantage, and the final spotkick fell to captain Hannah Earwicker, who couldn't convert as the Dockers celebrated their cup success.

Standout performers for Winchester included Ward with her brace and tireless running, Earwicker’s shot-stopping and long passes, and solid contributions from defenders like Armstrong and keeper Hough.

Substitutes Nina Maris and Wiki Laga added fresh legs in the closing stages. The team displayed excellent character, refusing to accept defeat and taking the tie all the way to penalties despite trailing twice.

Manager Jake Hodges reflected: "I am very proud of the girls - it was an excellent performance.

"They showed immense character to fight back and pull the game level, especially so late in the game.

"Standout performances from Eithne Patten and Molly Layland in the midfield, who both worked tirelessly and never gave up.

"Special mention to Poppy Anderson, who adapted to a new position in the game, getting a goal and an assist.

"They are a very young side but have taken to the challenge well and have achieved the highest league points total and position the Reserves have ever had."