Leeds City Vixens LFC 2 MFC Ladies 0

TWO first half goals earned Leeds victory in this clash between closely-matched sides in West Yorkshire.

Boro were without skipper Amy Laville and midfielder Stacey Cutler but Becky O'Brien returned in the centre of defence to start her first game this season.  

Leeds, currently in third spot just above Boro, fielded a strong side and got into the game much quicker than their opponents.

They were quicker to the ball and their passing was crisper.

Leeds took the lead midway through the first half when a defensive mix-up let them in to score from close range.

Boro responded with some good interplay but the final pass was sadly lacking.

Leanne Hauxwell fired in a strong header from a corner, followed by a snap shot from Duckling.

But in the 39th minute Leeds went further ahead when a good, flowing move was ended with a fine goal from their centre-forward, leaving Boro keeper Ami Bullen helpless.

Just before half-time Boro broke away but failed to convert a decent opportunity.

The second half started with some excellent play from Boro, with good short passes cutting a path through the Leeds defence, but yet again the final pass was not good enough.

But at least Boro were testing Leeds defence and competing better for each ball as chances fell to Hanratty, Duckling and Stephenson.

Midway through the second half Leeds nearly increased their lead when Bullen was beaten by a lob but a great goal-line clearance from Hawxwell prevented a goal.

As the game went on Boro opened up Leeds defence much more but unfortunately they couldn't finish any of their chances.

"It was definitely not one of Boro's best days," said manager Marrie Wieczorek. 

"Keeper Bullen had a fine game with some excellent handling and Sally Mullin and Leanne Hawxwell were strong in defence.

"Becky O'Brien lasted 75 minutes with a good, strong display in the centre of defence."

Next week Boro have managed to postpone their game so that they can support the men's team in their FA Cup quarter-final against Cardiff.

They return to action on Sunday March 16 with a trip to Bradford City.