THE Oxton Lionesses welcomed Bowden to the Den on Saturday and for the first time in a long time the weather did not disrupt the proceedings, writes Ali Mealor.

Keen to get back to winning ways, and get some points on the board Oxton started slowly, yet carefully.

The deadlock finally broken part way through the first half when Lucy Jamieson, fed by Gina Ellis, found herself one on one with the keeper.

The experienced Bowden keeper dealt with the first shot from the youngster, but with incredible composure Lucy retrieved the ball from under the GK and calmly slotted it reverse stick into the back of the net.

In the second half Oxton seemed to shake off the tethers, playing with much more freedom, and for a long time the Bowden defence kept them at bay, despite Kate Burrows acrobatic dives.

But part way through the second half Ali Mealor's pass from the right found Jules Armstrong unmarked in the middle of the pitch.

Jules calmly rounded the keeper and slotted the ball into the back of the net 2-0.

Shortly after, strong attacking play allowed Jules to find Kate lurking on the far post. 3-0 Oxton.

Despite Oxton gathering pace, Bowden fought hard and their attacking play was soon rewarded when Ann Weston kindly guided a Bowdon shot past her own keeper. 3-1.

Oxton secured the three points in the final moments of the game.

Gins Ellis dis-possessing Bowden and feeding the ball through to Jules Armstrong who bagged her brace.

Final score 4-1 Oxton.