Brentford Women B's Greater London Division One South campaign wrapped up in style on Sunday, as they battled to a 2-2 draw against South London Reserves at Gunnersbury Park. Already crowned league champions, Tommy Ryan-Maynard's side added another point to their impressive tally, finishing eight points clear of second-placed Hammersmith Reserves.
The match kicked off at a blistering pace, with both teams trading attacks in transition. The ball zipped from end to end, but neither goalkeeper was truly tested in the opening exchanges.
The deadlock finally broke in the 38th minute, and it was Leah Robertson who provided the magic. Paula Holguin set the stage with a clever piece of play, pinning her defender during a Brentford throw-in before slipping a perfectly weighted pass with the outside of her boot into Robertson's path. The forward cut inside with purpose and slotted the ball into the bottom corner, giving the Bees a well-deserved lead.
If the first goal was a masterclass in buildup, the second was pure instinct. Just two minutes later, goalkeeper Evie Thorne Ford launched a long ball that sailed over the South London backline. Holguin, showing sharp awareness, collected the ball, spun her marker, and fired home to double Brentford's advantage heading into the break.
The second half brought fresh energy from substitutes Esme Alaneme and Karina Hlek, but it was the hosts who struck first. A South London throw-in bounced dangerously into the box before being slammed home, cutting the deficit to 2-1.
Within a minute, the game was level. South London pounced on a loose ball and unleashed a stunning 30-yard strike that beat Thorne Ford's outstretched hands and nestled into the net. The momentum had shifted dramatically.
Brentford responded with grit and determination. Three minutes later, Boabonay threaded a clever ball across the box to Alaneme, who looked certain to restore the lead. But her effort was cleared off the line in a dramatic goalmouth scramble.
The Bees continued to push for a winner, showing the championship mettle that defined their season. While the draw wasn't the fairytale ending they might have hoped for, it was a fitting conclusion to a campaign that showcased their resilience and attacking flair. With Robertson's red-hot form and Holguin's creative spark, Brentford Women B have plenty to build on for next season.
