Facing Denham at Reading City, Oxford City Women lost 2-1 in their first cup final of the season.
Despite pulling a goal back through top scorer Ellie White, the team could not equalise to push the match to penalties.
The match began poorly for Oxford City, with Denham scoring within five minutes. A penalty awarded after Poppy Gorman’s handball on the line, taken by Brogan Moore, put Denham ahead.
Oxford City responded, with attempts from Billie Bough-French and Grace Craven, but Denham’s defence held firm.
On the stroke of half-time, Denham doubled their lead through Niamh Cashin’s close-range finish, leaving Oxford City with a two-goal deficit. Eight minutes into the second half, Oxford City found a lifeline.
Ellie White, scoring her 20th goal of the season, netted with a lob over the Denham keeper, making it 2-1.
Despite relentless pressure from Oxford City, Denham’s defence stood strong, denying any further goals. The match concluded without any late drama, ending in Denham’s favour.
Oxford City will now focus on the County Cup, where they will face Kidlington.
The team, including players such as Kiera Maskell, Gorman, Bough-French, Prescott-Luke, Wellington-Faissal, Lester, Craven, Walecki, Ayres, E White, and Harris, will be eager to make amends.
Substitutes included Parsons, Davis, O’Leary, White, and Ranxha.