Northeast: New tactics will boost Pompey Ladies

Nadine Bazan on the ball for Pompey Ladies against Southampton. Picture: Mick Young (160189-15)

Perry Northeast put some new plans in place as Pompey Ladies recorded an emphatic 10-2 victory against Southampton Women's FC.

The Blues were different class again as they reached the final of the Hampshire FA Challenge Cup.

Sarah Kempson led the way with a hat-trick.

Forwards Gemma Hillier and Emma Sherwood both scored twice.

Emma Sherwood celebrates with Nadine Bazan. Picture: Mick Young (160189-24)

Charlotte Benson, Tash Stevens and Lucy Quinn completed the goal tally for Pompey.

Blues boss Northeast was able to switch tactics during the match against the side from the Southern Region League first division – three levels below.

He took the chance to give valuable minutes to players like Benson, Stevens and Sherwood who are all looking to make their mark at Pompey.

Northeast said: ‘The players were fairly dominant and professional.

‘We played some good football.

‘It was a chance to try a couple of new things – different shapes and different systems.

‘We tried a new way of playing and that worked well.

‘I certainly think we can use it for league games.

‘The players were happy with how they played and I’m pleased.

‘They kept working hard throughout.’

Pompey took the lead after three minutes with Kempson beating the Southampton keeper and netting.

It was 2-0 on 17 minutes when Hillier struck a fine half-volley into the net.

Pompey keeper Michelle Beazley made a good low save before Southampton scored from the resulting corner.

It took the Blues only six minutes to respond, with Quinn setting up Kempson to lash home.

Hillier also added her second just before the break.

Benson, Shannon Sievwright and Stevens all came on at half-time for Pompey.

Stevens did not take long to make her mark as she netted a great strike on 51 minutes.

Kempson then completed her hat-trick and Quinn got the seventh.

Sherwood added her name to the goal tally, then right-back Benson netted a header for her first Pompey goal.

And Sherwood placed a precise shot into the net to make it 10, before the visitors got their second of the match.

Pompey will play Basingstoke in the final on Wednesday, April 13.

Next the Blues host Plymouth in the FA Premier League southern division at Privett Park on Sunday, weather permitting.

Don’t miss the Sports Mail on Saturday for a picture special from Pompey’s impressive victory against Southampton Women.