Win at Luton sets Pompey up nicely for QPR test

Tash Stephens opened the scoring against Luton. Picture: Jordan Hampton

The Blues won 4-2 in Bedfordshire to book a date at Charlton in the second round of the Women’s FA Cup on Sunday, January 8.

But first they have to focus on two big matches in the FA Premier League southern division.

At home to QPR today, then away to Spurs on Sunday, December 18.

Skipper Gemma Hillier knew the importance of getting a morale-boosting result against Luton, who play in the south east division one – a level below the Blues.

Pompey had to make sure they had the right approach to deal with fired up opposition.

And the victory allowed the team to put some mixed league form behind them.

Hillier said: ‘Going into the match on Sunday we knew our own results had not been very consistent of late.

‘So a win after losing to Charlton last week sets us up nicely for two league games before Christmas against QPR and Tottenham.

‘We know the teams in the league below are tough to play against, as they want to beat the team in the league above them.

‘So all the pressure was on us to win, we couldn’t take Luton lightly.’

Sarah Kempson, right, scored twice for the Blues on Sunday to continue her excellent form.

The first goal was netted by Tash Stephens.

And the final goal was a strike from young substitute Rebecca Bell who is really starting to make an impact in the Pompey first-team squad.

Hillier added: ‘We made a few subs to inject some pace back into our play, Becky Bell being one of them.

‘Her goal was typical of what she shows in training each week, pure pace which the Luton defence struggled with the whole time she was on.

‘All the girls were really happy for her, scoring her first senior goal.’

Ellie Kirby made her first-team debut on Sunday.

The Blues captain praised the youngster.

She said: ‘Ellie Kirby showed real maturity on and off the ball when coming on.’

Today Portsmouth in the Community are running lots of Christmas-themed events before the match with QPR.

This includes walking football, urban football, and there will be lots of prizes to be won.

So if you are free head down to Gosport Borough and support the ladies.