Moneyfields Women returned to winning ways in their return to league action, securing a comfortable 3–0 victory over Maidenhead United in the FA Women’s National League Division One South West at the John Jenkins Stadium.

The result keeps the Moneys firmly in the promotion hunt, sitting equal on points with Bristol Rovers, both just two points behind league leaders, Swindon Town.

First-half goals from Daisy Beard and Meg Fox — her sixth of the season — put Karl Watson’s side in control before captain Ali Hall sealed the win with a stunning long-range strike midway through the second half.

It was also a special day for 17-year-old Aime Chiddle, who made her first-team debut after impressing for James Jenkins’ reserve side over the past two seasons.

Speaking after the match, manager Karl Watson praised his side’s response following a tough run of injuries and last week’s setback.

“Yeah, it feels good,” Watson said. “It’s no secret that we’ve been riddled with injuries recently, and we were pretty threadbare today. That gave a few of the reserves a chance to step up — Aime Chiddle made her debut, which she’s been really eager for.

“But overall, it was a very controlled and dominant performance from start to finish. A really good day.”

Watson added that the performance was an important reminder of what his team is capable of.

“We needed to settle back down, remember who we are, and how good we can be,” he continued. “Last week we just didn’t quite click — the injuries were piling up, but that’s no excuse.

“Today, the ball was moving nicely, the patterns were sharp, and you could really see the club’s philosophy coming through. It was enjoyable to watch.”

Bekah Tonks was named Player of the Match after another outstanding display, this time filling in at right-back — a position she has featured in before.

“Yeah, I really enjoyed it,” Tonks said. “It’s great to be back defending — I love that part of the game. It suits our style too; we like our full-backs to get forward and join the attack, so it’s a fun position to play.

“I thought it was a really strong team performance. We dominated possession, controlled the game, and a 3–0 win is a fantastic result.”

Watson was full of praise for Tonks’ versatility and consistency, “Bekah’s been brilliant for the club all the way through,” he said.

Adding, “I’ve asked her to play in several different positions this season and she’s been phenomenal every time. The girls were right to give her Player of the Match.”

Moneys Women are next in action this weekend as they welcome Bristol City U21 PGA in the first round of the FA Women’s National League Plate.