Wycombe Wanderers U18’s first game of the new JPL Warriors League ended in a 2-2 draw against XL Football Dartford on September 17.

With a number of new signings such as Freya Harris, EJ Connell, Liv Nero from Tilehurst, Teagan Condra from Denham, Emily McCartney from Maidenhead, Ellie Trigg, and Dani Yakubovich, the first period saw a positive display from both sides, as they put pressure on both goalkeepers. 

This paid off for the Chairgirls as they took the lead on 28 minutes through a free-kick from Amelia Sage finding the back of the net.

But with five minutes before half-time, Dartford were level following a defensive mistake. 

The second half was a cagey affair and with 18 minutes remaining, Wycombe went back in front thanks to a Naomi Tilly strike.

It looked like Wanderers were going to record a victory in their opening match of the season, but with five minutes left, Dartford were awarded a penalty which they converted.

Speaking on the match, manager Christian Price said: "Out of all the years I have been coaching this team, today was by far the most improved team performance I have witnessed. 

“A fantastic start to the season, the coaches and I are absolutely thrilled with how they delivered the game."

The next game for the U18 team will be against Ipswich Town at the 1878 Stadium, Burnham on Saturday, September 24, which will kick off at 10.30am. 

A day later on September 18, the reserves were in action as they defeated Beaconsfield Town 2-0.

The first half was frustrating for the Chairgirls as they struggled to capitalise on their chances after starting the game so brightly but they couldn’t get past the Rams' defenese as they went into the break all square with the score at 0-0.

But just 30 seconds after the restarted, Sally Grimm put Wycombe ahead before Amy Norfolk made it 2-0. 

Throughout the game, Beaconsfield did have chances of their own, one being a shot that hit the woodwork however, it was not enough to combat the solid display of the home team who claimed all three points, making it two wins from two to start the season. 

The Reserves are next in action away to Easington Sports on Sunday, September 25.

The first team will play their inaugural home game of the campaign this weekend after they defeated Winchester Flyers 1-0 away from home one week earlier.
They will take on Eastleigh.