A five-star performance from Doncaster Rovers Belles saw them continue their 100% start to the season, as sensational strikes from Sophie Barker and Courtney Sweetman-Kirk aided a 5-0 victory over Aston Villa in the WSL2.
Having conceded just one goal in their opening three games, Doncaster will wonder how they haven’t taken top spot in the second tier – their 10 goals scored topped only by league leaders Reading, courtesy of Fran Kirby’s individual tally of double figures.
However, they will head into their upcoming fixtures filled with confidence after Barker opened proceedings with her first goal for the Belles.
Following a makeshift clearance from the hosts, Barker fired a sumptuous half-volley into the top corner, as a helpless Jess Myers watched on between the sticks.
And despite a stunning save from the goalkeeper just minutes later, edging Emily Roberts’ shot away from the bottom corner, the resulting set piece was headed home by Rhiannon Roberts, doubling the scoring after just 35 minutes.
As three points looked secured, the Belles refused to hold back on the attack.
Unfortunate to have not yet made the scoresheet, E. Roberts popped up on the stroke of half-time to ensure her side went into the break comfortable of the maximum points.
With the Villains failing to deal with yet another set-piece, a free-kick from Sue Smith found its way to Roberts – who connected with a vivacious header from 12 yards.
With victory for the visitors almost set in stone, a passive second-half saw little opportunity for either side, as Doncaster sat comfortably with their dominant lead and Villa struggled to make do of any slight opportunity.
Nevertheless, the Belles inflicted damage even further from a set-piece, as a late corner from Smith magnificently glided into the net to make it 4-0, before Sweetman-Kirk contributed to the goal fest with a fantastically worked long-range chip, catching Myers off her line to complete the rout.
Sweetman-Kirk has now scored four goals in as many games.
Villa now have a FA Cup quarter-final tie against Notts County of the WSL1 to look forward to, whereas the Belles next feature in the league away to Everton.
