Oxford United eased into the next round of the National League Cup with a comfortable 5-0 win against local rivals Swindon Town. A first-half hat-trick from Sophie Baker set United on their way before Beth Lumsden scored two after the break to complete the scoring.
United took the lead with their first chance of the game. Lauren Haynes' corner from the right was headed in by Sophie Baker who leapt highest in the area.
Five minutes later Liam Gilbert’s side thought they had a second, but Carly Johns effort was ruled out for offside.
United and Baker’s tally for the afternoon was doubled half an hour in. Johns burst down the right and cut the ball back to the onrushing Baker who swept into the corner.
Two minutes later Baker had completed her hat-trick. More good work from Johns who saw her shot saved by the keeper but straight into the path of the in-form Baker who had the simple task of finishing and she obliged.
United continued to pile on the pressure in the second half. Rachel Panting coming close with two efforts but they both sailed over the cross bar.
It was 4-0 on the hour mark when Lumsden scored the pick of the goals. She cut inside onto her right foot before unleashing a powerful strike that dipped into the top corner.
Liam Gilbert made a host of changes with the game seemingly wrapped up as he looked to share minutes around for his players.
United didn’t drop off though and could have added further gloss to the score line with Lumsden and Riva Casley both having efforts saved by the Swindon keeper.
Lumsden did get her second and United’s fifth of the afternoon when she was played in by Johns and drilled into the bottom corner.
An excellent performance and result from United’s women.
OUWFC TEAM: Sercombe, Wallace(Beaver 61), MacKenzie, Casley, Alexander (Ackerman 64), Haynes(Stevens 61), Baker (Childerhouse 72), Lumsden, King(McLachlan 61), Panting, Johns.
Report by Jack Sale, pictures Darrell Fisher