Leeds United Women 4 Brown (36, 47) Hunt (56) Durkin (63)

South Shields Women 1 Frazer (32)

Despite going a goal down in the first half, Leeds United Women made light work of South Shields, extending their unbeaten run to five games and securing a place in the next round of the FA Cup.

Leeds started brightly, from the opening stages, Emily Aldcroft in the South Shields goal would have known she’d be in for a busy afternoon. The visitors’ keeper made saves from Abby Brown, Shannon Durkin, Cath Hamill and Milly Ash in the opening half hour.

Aldcroft’s good work was rewarded at the other end too. South Shields made the most of their first chance of the game when Elisebeth Frazer capitalised on a loose ball in the box to smash the visitors in front from close range.

Back came Leeds though, and responded in the perfect way. Brown equalised for the Whites within four minutes of going behind. She collected a ball over the top from Emma Lee, before working it onto her dangerous left-foot and firing an effort in off the post. Aldcroft helpless on this occasion.

Half Time: Leeds United Women 1-1 South Shields Women

It didn’t take Leeds long to seize the initiative in the second half. Brown again the goal scorer, a powerful effort into the top corner just two minutes after the restart.

The Whites were playing some beautiful football, and the third goal came on 56 minutes when Hunt scored the pick of the goals. A curling shot with her weaker left foot, which flew into the top corner of the South Shields goal.

Durkin rounded off the scoring and got her reward for a tireless performance on 63 minutes. Holly Orr started the move with a pass down the right-hand side and Ash provided the assist for Durkin who controlled delightfully and slotted past Aldcroft.

Leeds could’ve had more, chances for Ash and Hunt went begging in the late stages of the game. Georgia Wattam remained untroubled barring a tame effort from Eve Blakey in the final minute.

Full Time: Leeds United Women 4-1 South Shields Women