Villarreal Women pick up all three points against Betis with goals from Aixa and Cienfu
Villarreal Women returned to winning ways against Betis at the Training Ground in a match they dominated and deservedly won (2-1), claiming all three points thanks to a goal from Aixa and a stunning long range strike from Cienfu from over 30 metres.
The first half was one way traffic in favour of the Yellow Submarine. Sharp, accurate and aggressive in the press, Ferriols’ side quickly took control of the contest. In the 11th minute, Aixa got the better of her marker to latch onto a ball in behind and make it 1-0. Villarreal Women went on to create several clear chances after the opener, although they were unable to add to their lead.
The second half, however, began with plenty of excitement. In the 52nd minute, Lauris came close to scoring after a move involving Medina and a precise cross from Nerea that flew just over the bar, but the best was still to come.
Seven minutes later, Cienfu unleashed a superb strike from over 30 yards to score Villarreal’s second. With an impressive long, lofted effort, the Yellow Submarine midfielder made it 2-0 and extended the advantage.
Betis then responded, forcing Montse Quesada into two excellent saves, one of them a penalty stop. The Andalusian side kept pushing and, in the 85th minute, pulled one back to make it 2-1. In the end, it was a hugely valuable win for Villarreal, who remain in the promotion play-off places.
Line-ups:
Villarreal CF: M. Quesada; Nerea, I. Miguélez, Moreira, Laura; Lauris (Martuka, min. 83), Cienfu, María (Estupiñán, min. 90+1), S. Medina (Querol, min. 83); Aixa (Macías, min. 72), Alexia Jr (Figols, min. 72).
Real Betis Balompié: P. Vizoso; M. Gómez (María Hay, min. 68), Solozabal, Marina S., Guerrero (Daniela, min. 41), N. Montilla (Mabel, min, 68), Carla S., Vicky, Yasmine Zouhir (Ana Manchón, min. 31), Gálvez (Cabezas, min. 68), Bonilla.
Goals: 1-0. Min. 11: Aixa. 2-0. Min. 59: Cienfu. 2-1. Min. 83: Carla.
Referee: Alba Arija. Booked: Lauris, Cienfu (Villarreal).
