Royal Wootton Bassett Town Ladies fought valiantly as they were defeated 3-1 after extra time in their FA Women's Cup Second Qualifying round tie away against AEK Boco.

Although they may have been eliminated from the competition at the first hurdle, Bassett can be proud of their performance against higher level opposition, who they pushed all the way.

Becky Gammon's side even led for the majority of the game, before Boco equalised eight minutes from time to force the additional half hour where they went on to score a pair of unanswered goals.

On their way to earning promotion to the South West Women's Football League Eastern Division last season, Boco defeated Bassett rather handily in three meetings across all competitions.

This record, combined with having home advantage, therefore meant they were heavy favourites going into their Women's Cup clash.

Yet they arguably underestimated Bassett, who from the first whistle performed at a high level.

If that was unexpected, Boco must have been further taken aback when Lisa Coe rounded off an excellent move by lobbing the 'keeper from outside the area to put the visitors in front.

Boco did respond in the second period. However, Bassett were sharp in defence and as time wore on the chance of an upset loomed ever larger.

Much to their relief though, the hosts finally got back on level terms with just eight minutes remaining courtesy of Jayde Cook.

With Bassett tiring after such an immense effort, Boco were then able to seal their passage through to the next round as Courtney Smith bagged an extra time double.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Sunday 18th September 2016 at 18:47