Sunday 17th August 2025
FAWNL Southern Premier Division
Gwalia United…0
Oxford United Women… 1
(Turner 31’)
USW Sports Park 3G
Oxford United Women claimed a vital win on the opening weekend of the season, edging past Gwalia United 1–0 thanks to Holly Turner’s 31st minute finish.
The forward capitalised on a tidy build-up before composing herself in the box and beating the goalkeeper with a cool finish, giving United the early lead.
It was the start of a new campaign, with a trip to Wales bringing a difficult opening fixture to the season.
Sam Rose’s side started well, taking the lead through Turner, with Manders also hitting the post before half time.
The hosts responded after the break, intensifying the pressure, but a composed defensive display marshalled by Kate Wiseman and Naomi Bedeau, along with goalkeeper Bethany‑May Wookey, saw the clean sheet preserved in tough conditions.
The bench played its part, with fresh legs from Jenna Legg, Ruby Sealey, bolstering the squad when it counted. Their collective effort helped the U’s maintain control through the final whistle and pick up an important first win of the season.
With this opening day win, United now look ahead to a midweek cup challenge, travelling to face Milton Keynes Dons on Wednesday 20 August at Bedford Town FC, before returning to The MGroup Stadium on Sunday 24 August, when AFC Wimbledon make the trip for the first home league game of the season.
Oxford United Women: Wookey, Gibson, Wiseman, Bedeau, Barrett, Turner, Thompson, Jenkins, Palmer, Barker, Manders
Substitutes: Legg, Sealey
Unused Substitutes: Sieradzka, Casley, Lindbaek, Richardson, Trinder
