Martin Fitzsimons: We made hard work of it

Chester FC Women made it back to back victories with a 5-3 away win at bottom of the table Wythenshawe AFC Women.

The Seals didn’t have it all their own way as they had to fight back from 2-1 down after missing a plethora of chances in the first half.

Martin Fitzsimons with assistant Ben Wilkes. Image via Alison Greenwood

Manager Fitzsimons described the performance as ‘typical Chester’ as his side has struggled to see off games this season. As shown in the previous league game when they threw away a two-goal lead against Warrington Wolverines.

“In typical Chester fashion we made hard work of it, which is something that seems to run through the club, but we felt we were always in control. I don’t think they had too many opportunities other than the goals they got.

“They did spring a few surprises, like the high line, we weren’t expecting that from them. It’s a case of giving ourselves that half a yard, player for player we could beat them for pace. At this level, with a lack of linesmen, the referee is fighting a losing battle. They’ll err on the side of caution with offsides and not give away too much.”

Inconsistency

Ashleigh Bullock in action against Salford earlier in the season. Image via Alison Greenwood

Midfielder Ashleigh Bullock called for more consistency from her teammates, something her manager has echoed, as too many performances have lacked that killer instinct this season.

“We are consistently inconsistent, sometimes we turn up and we can challenge anyone in the league, we proved that when we beat Salford 3-1. Then other times we will pick up draws that really, we shouldn’t be doing if we are looking to challenge in the league.”

Creative Crooks

Izzy Crooks orchestrated Chester's first back to back win of the season. Image via Alison Greenwood

Chester played some brilliant football at times with the fluid combinations in midfield giving the home side issues all afternoon. Fitzsimons was full of praise for many players but singled out Izzy Crooks’ performance as ‘outstanding’.

“Crooks with the ball was outstanding, she can ping a ball for anyone and get them through the back door. I wouldn’t be surprised if she had a hand in most of our goals today, if not the direct assist, she definitely started off the moves going forward.”

What's next...

The Blues now look ahead to next weekend’s league game at home to Altrincham FC Ladies, a side they drew 1-1 against in the reverse fixture.

Check out the full interview with Fitzsimons below...