Jones impresses but leaders claim points

DERBY County Women manager Sam Griffiths praised her side’s “excellent” performance in a 2-O defeat against FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division leaders Burnley at Turf Moor.

- By ELLA BARBER

Sam Griffiths

The Ewes defended resolutely throughout the first half as keeper Lucy Jones made a number of fine stops to keep the score level.

But after the break, Millie Ravening's composed spot kick broke the deadlock in the 55th minute.

Burnley doubled their advantage in the 74th minute when Claudia Walker's strike ricocheted off the leg of Jones before nestling in the back of the net.

In the early stages, Griffiths’ side stayed compact in a low block and the Ewes boss admitted her side approached the game with a clear, defensive game plan in a bid to at least claim a point.

"I thought the girls did everything that we asked," said Griffiths.

"I don't think there's any hiding we came for a point. We wanted to be really hard to beat and we wanted to have a really solid shape.

"We knew the areas that Burnley would probably get into and we knew we would have to deal with that."