A GOAL after just 45 seconds set Droitwich Spa Ladies on course to another league win and ensured they retained their lead at the top of West Midlands Regional Women’s League Division One South.

With second-placed Lye Town having games in hand, Sunday’s match against Studley was a must-win game for Spa Ladies.

Sarah Parkinson-Mills’ first minute goal was followed 11 minutes later by a fantastic strike from outside the box by Katie Armento that flew past the Studley keeper and gave Droitwich a commanding early lead.

Although Droitwich dominated possession for the remainder of the game and created numerous chances to further extend their lead, their play failed to reach the heights that they have attained so far this season and additional goals were restricted to a 63rd minute strike from player of the match Lucy Boswell, who volleyed home an Armento corner kick.

This was Droitwich’s 13th win in this their 19th league match of the season, already a remarkable return for their first season at this level.

Manager Ian Fry said: "The girls needed this game having not played for a couple of weeks and will undoubtedly improve for our crucial match next week."

On Sunday, Droitwich visit Lye Town in a top of the table clash which may well prove significant in deciding the destination of the league title.