TOM Blaymires’ first game in charge of Solihull Moors Women ended in defeat after his side were beaten 3-0 by Loughborough Lightning in the first round of the FA Cup.
Nicki Russell struck twice for the visitors – either side of Emelia Wilson’s penalty – as Solihull battled well before conceding two late goals after Jessica Lowe’s dismissal.
Playing against a team from a higher division – the home side more refused to lie down at the Abacus Lighting Community Arena before eventually succumbing to defeat.
And after they withstood some early Loughborough pressure – Moors grew into the game as they tested the Lightning goal to no avail.
However, the away side would take the lead on 16 minutes when Russell found the net from a tight angle.
Moors keeper Megan Donohoe then made some superb saves to keep her side in the game as Solihull trailed by a single goal at the break.
Substitute Lowe – introduced in the first-half – impressed for Moors in attack but was unable to bring Solihull level before she received her marching orders.
Donohoe made another excellent stop but could only parry a shot across goal with Lowe sent off after she instinctively handled the ball on the line in the final minute.
Wilson dispatched the resulting penalty to seal the win for the away side before Russell completed the scoring four minutes into injury-time.
Moors Women return to action at home to Tamworth United on Sunday, November 21 in the County Cup with kick-off at 3pm.
