Millwall Lionesses secured their first league win of the season at New Ferens Park on Sunday afternoon, after Portuguese winger Amelia Pereira had given Durham the advantage on 37 minutes.
The hosts were probably worthy of their lead having had their fair share of chances in the first half. Defender Julie Nelson was unable to convert Beth Hepple’s early free kick and Emily Scott rattled the Millwall crossbar on 13 minutes.
The Lionesses were inspired in the second period and had to wait only 9 minutes for their equaliser. Rinsola Babajide capitalised on a poor back-pass from Durham defender Vic Linsley and smashed the ball into the roof of the net past the helpless Helen Alderson.
Millwall boss Dan Mlinar then brought on Lily Agg up front and the substitute caused the Durham back line numerous problems.
Speaking after the match Agg explained: “When I did get on, he said I needed to get in behind their centre-backs and look to spin them. Luckily I got in twice and scored.”
The home side will, however, be frustrated with the manner of all three goals conceded. A seemingly harmless corner wasn’t dealt with and Agg was first to react to the loose ball inside the box.
Durham might have immediately responded, but Millwall captain Dionne Lennon was on hand to clear Nelson’s header off the line.
Lennon’s intervention was soon rewarded as Agg once again made the most of a defensive lapse, eventually beating Alderson with a clever lob.
Beth Hepple pulled one back for the hosts, to make for a nervy ending to the game, through a perfectly placed free kick with ten minutes left.
The win for Millwall maintains their unbeaten league campaign after two consecutive home draws. Next up for them is a trip across London to face Watford Ladies. Durham will also be in the capital as they face London Bees.
